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Thursday, August 1, 2013

Australian Navy: International Fleet Review 2013


The Royal Australian Navy is celebrating 100 years since the first RAN ships sailed into Sydney Harbour in 1913. Ships from more 20 nations comprising around 40 warships and 17 tall ships, plus 8000 naval personnel will help celebrate Navy’s historic event between 3 -11 October 2013.

More than 20 nations have confirmed participation by either a warship or tall ship including: Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Colombia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Micronesia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Tonga, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Australian and foreign warships plus the tall ships will be open at these events for what is a rare opportunity for the public to go on board some ships.

The flagship HMAS Australia will lead the new Australian Fleet of seven cruisers and destroyers (HMA Ships Melbourne, Sydney, Encounter, Warrego, Parramatta and Yarra) into Sydney Harbour for the first time.



The program will include: a tall ships parade; warships arrival; ceremonial fleet review; naval gun salutes; fixed wing and helicopter flypasts; aerial acrobatic displays; Sydney Harbour fireworks and light show; ships open to visitors; combined naval march through the streets of Sydney; military band concerts; Freedom of Entry parades in Parramatta and Mosman; religious and memorial services; and sporting competitions. Military and historic aircraft will also feature prominently during the Review with more than 30 RAN and visiting navy helicopters and fixed wing aircraft taking part.


UPDATE: The United States Navy guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) and the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Qingdao, a Luhu-class guided missile destroyer from China have confirmed their attendance taking the total number of visiting warships to 23. With the combined might of the Royal Australian Navy's ships and the tall ships there will be a fleet of 60 ships arriving in Sydney Harbour for the event. During Open Days on 6 and 7 October 2013 members of the public will have the opportunity to visit both warships and tall ships at Garden Island, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. 

More event information is available on the International Fleet Review 2013 website and their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IFR2013
  • Date: 3 October 2013 - 11 October 2013
  • Time: Refer to the Schedule of Events below
  • Where: Various locations around Sydney, NSW. See below for details
  • Website: http://www.navy.gov.au/ifr/
  • Cost: Free

Schedule of Events

Note: The following program is subject to change.

1 October 2013
  • 1200-1600 Warships enter Jervis Bay.

2 October 2013
  • 1830-2030 Welcome Reception hosted by Chief of Navy. Location: Royal Australian Naval College, HMAS Creswell (Invited Guests).

3 October 2013
  • 1100 Tall ships entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 0730 Warships depart Jarvis Bay for passage to Sydney.
  • 1830 Tall ships welcome reception. Location: Australian National Maritime Museum (Invited Guests).

4 October 2013
  • 0600-1600 Warships enter Sydney Harbour
  • 1000 Ceremonial Fleet Entry and 21 Gun Salute. HMA Ships Sydney, Darwin, Perth, Parramatta, Bundaberg, Diamantina and Yarra. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 1100-1600 Australian Surf Rowers Reception. Location: Sydney Opera House.
  • 1830-2030 Visiting Ships Welcome Reception. Location: Garden Island (Invited Guests).

5 October 2013
  • Dress ship. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 1100-1430 Ceremonial Fleet Review. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 1130-1200 Formation flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 1400-1900 Military demonstrations and Naval band performances.
  • 1800-2030 Combined IFR Official Reception. Location: Sydney Opera House Forecourt (Invited Guests).
  • 1930-2000 Pyrotechnics and Lightshow. Location: Sydney Harbour.

6 October 2013
  • 1000-1130 HMAS Sydney Memorial Service. Location: Naval Memorial, Bradley's Head.
  • 1300-1800 Tall ships open to the general public. Location: Cockle Bay/Darling Harbour (TBC).
  • 1300-1800 Warships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
  • 1400-1530 Ecumenical Service. Location: St Mary's Cathedral.

7 October 2013
  • 0730-1015 Opening of Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
  • Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
  • 0800-1800 Warships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
  • 0800-1800 Tall ships open to the general public. Location: Cockle Bay/Darling Harbour (TBC).

8 October 2013
  • 0800-1700 Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour
  • Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
  • 1000-1500 Combined Navies Golf Competition. Location: The Coast Golf Club.
  • 1230-1400 HMAS Penguin Freedom of Entry to Mosman. Location: Mosman Central Business District.
  • 1230-1400 Navy Memorial Service. Location: Cenotaph, Martin Place.
  • 1300-1430 HMAS Parramatta Freedom of Entry to Parramatta. Location: Parramatta Central Business District.
  • 1830-2030 Vice Regal Reception. Location: Government House, Botanic Gardens (Invited Guests).

9 October 2013
  • 1030-1100 Sea Power Conference 2013 Closing Ceremony. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
  • 1230-1430 Combined Navies Parade. Location: George Street - The Rocks to Town Hall.
  • 1430-1630 Lord Mayor's Reception. Location: Sydney Town Hall (Invited Guests).
  • 1400-1630 Pacific 2013 IFR Ships Companies Lunch. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
  • Closing of Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
  • 1500-1730 Twilight sailing with RAN Sailing Association. Location: Sydney Harbour.

10 October 2013
  • 1100 Tall ships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.
  • 1000-1500 Combined Navies Sporting Competition. Location: Randwick Barracks/Macquarie Park.

11 October 2013
  • Warships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.


Need affordable and comfortable accommodation close to the fleet locations in Sydney Harbour?

Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close these venues and major public transport hubs. 

So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!


Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four hotels are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Many of the fleet locations can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.


Want discounts on your stay at Metro Hotels? Here are some specials:


Kids Stay FREE Package @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour



Winter Sydney Great Saver @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
Metro Hotel is offering this Winter Sydney - Great Saver package for $129.00 per room per night including:
  • Free wireless internet 
  • Free Breakfast for 2 adult 
  • Free bottle of wine on arrival 
  • Free late check out by 12 noon (Subject to availability).
  • Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307




Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package @ Metro on Pitt
Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package including:




Park and Stay Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel
Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Park and Stay Special:

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Schools Spectacular 2013 @ Sydney Entertainment Centre


This year is the 30th Anniversary of the Schools Spectacular. Since 1983 this event has grown to become more than just a showcase highlighting the talents of the students of New South Wales public schools. It is an iconic cultural event incorporating students from diverse backgrounds and communities from the length and breadth of the state.

The Schools Spectacular is an Australian variety show featuring more than 3,600 students from over 400 NSW public schools and is an established and well recognised event on the Sydney live entertainment calendar.

The Schools Spectacular is a world-class arena production and one of the largest annual events of its caliber anywhere in Australia – and arguably the world. From its ability to produce national and international stars, to its role in promoting inclusiveness and reconciliation, the Schools Spectacular has no peer.



It showcases a cast of 2,000 dancers, a combined choir of 1,300 and an 80-piece full symphony orchestra.

The Schools Spectacular delivers outstanding, cutting-edge youth dance and musical performances, featuring state-of-the-art sound, lighting and staging. It is televised nationally in prime-time and also incorporates the World’s Biggest Classroom exhibition program showcasing a broader range of student talent and skill.

The Schools Spectacular is a remarkable New South Wales success story and is proudly presented by the NSW Department of Education and Communities.

When: 
  • Friday 29 November - 12:00pm (preview) and 7:30pm
  • Saturday 30 November - 2:00pm and 7:30pm

Where: Sydney Entertainment Centre - 35 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
How To Get There: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/show/transport
Tickets: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/tickets
Schools Spectacular Website: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/





Staying in Sydney for the 2013 Schools Spectacular?  


Need accommodation near Sydney Entertainment Centre?


Look no further than Metro Hotel Sydney Central - a 3 min drive or 6 min walk to Sydney Entertainment Centre whilst being close to other iconic Sydney attractions. Great for families with kids of all ages. 



We are currently running these family package specials to save you money!

Capitol Theater Family Accommodation Package

For $205.00 you get:
  • One nights accommodation in a Deluxe 2x Double Bedded Room  
  • Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
  • Chocolates on arrival




Spoil Your Child Special Package

For $215.00 you get:

    • One nights accommodation in a Superior 2 Double bedded room for up to two adults and two children (children aged below 12 years)
    • Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
    • Goodies Bag on arrival for each child
    • Daily 24hrs internet







          Tuesday, July 9, 2013

          Home Buyer and Property Investor Expo - Sydney 2013


          The Home Buyer and Property Investor Show is the leading event in Australia dedicated to educating new home buyers and property investors of all levels.

          The show will help you reach your dream of your own home sooner or provide valuable information for property investors to gain a bigger portfolio.

          Get a greater understanding of what’s required to make smart (and more profitable!) decisions when researching, finding and buying your next home or investment property.

          Guest speakers include: 
          • Mark Bouris owner of Yellow Brick Road Wealth Management and judge on Australia's Apprentice 
          • Effie Zahos editor of Money magazine and ABC radio's Getting Rich Staying Rich program
          • Bryce Holdaway location expert and lifestyle TV host
          • Margaret Lomas founder & director of Destiny Financial Solutions and Skynews Property Success host

          Learn from some of the most successful and experienced experts in Australia, with over 50 high-powered seminars and workshops planned for the weekend to get you started.




            Need to stay in Sydney for the Home Buyer Property Investor Show?

            Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and major public transport hubs. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!


            Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. If you prefer to walk, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre can be reached by foot from all our Sydney hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets - all within walking distance.


            Want discounts on Metro Hotels around Sydney? 
            Here are some specials!


            Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
            Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:





            Corporate Accommodation Special @ Metro Apartments on King
            Metro Apartments on King is offering this Corporate Special from $165.00 per night staying in a fabulously located One Bedroom Apartment featuring a fully equipped kitchen including:




            Winter Sydney Great Saver @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
            Metro Hotel is offering this Winter Sydney - Great Saver package for $129.00 per room per night including:
            • Free wireless internet 
            • Free Breakfast for 2 adult 
            • Free bottle of wine on arrival 
            • Free late check out by 12 noon (Subject to availability).
            • Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307




            Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package @ Metro on Pitt
            Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package including:




            Park and Stay Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel
            Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Park and Stay Special:




            Sydney Trading And Investing Seminars & Expo 2013 @ Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre


            The Trading & Investing Seminars & Expo is the leading event in Australia dedicated to educating traders and investors of all levels.

            Gain an informed perspective on the challenging local and global issues impacting the value of your portfolio today. Discover actionable investment and trading strategies you can adopt today to safeguard your money and grow your wealth – regardless of your experience.

            Learn from some of the most successful investment, trading and property experts from Australia and around the world with over 40 high-powered seminars and workshops planned for the weekend.





              Need affordable and comfortable accommodation close to the expo in Sydney?

              Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and major public transport hubs. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!


              Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. If you prefer to walk, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre can be reached by foot from all our Sydney hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets - all within walking distance.


              Want discounts on Metro Hotels around Sydney? 
              Here are some specials!


              Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
              Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:





              Corporate Accommodation Special @ Metro Apartments on King
              Metro Apartments on King is offering this Corporate Special from $165.00 per night staying in a fabulously located One Bedroom Apartment featuring a fully equipped kitchen including:




              Winter Sydney Great Saver @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
              Metro Hotel is offering this Winter Sydney - Great Saver package for $129.00 per room per night including:
              • Free wireless internet 
              • Free Breakfast for 2 adult 
              • Free bottle of wine on arrival 
              • Free late check out by 12 noon (Subject to availability).
              • Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307




              Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package @ Metro on Pitt
              Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package including:




              Park and Stay Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel
              Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Park and Stay Special:

              Thursday, July 4, 2013

              International Fleet Review 2013


              In late 2011, the Chief of Navy (CN) - Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, AO, CSC, RAN extended an invitation to over 50 nations to send a warship and/or tall ship to participate in an International Fleet Review (IFR) to be held in Sydney from 3 - 11 October 2013. The Review is being held to commemorate the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy's Fleet into Sydney. On 4 October 1913 the flagship, HMAS Australia, led the new Australian Fleet Unit comprising HMA Ships Melbourne, Sydney, Encounter, Warrego, Parramatta and Yarra into Sydney Harbour for the first time to be greeted by thousands of cheering citizens lining the foreshore. This was a moment of great national pride and importance, one recognised as a key indicator of Australia's progress towards national maturity.
              The IFR is a high profile international event and Navy's signature commemorative event for 2013. Planned in partnership with the NSW State Government and the City of Sydney, it is anticipated that approximately 40 visiting warships and 12 tall ships will participate in this historic event. The RAN Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Congress and Exposition are also scheduled to take place at Darling Harbour from 7 October 2013 to coincide with the IFR.

              The current plan will see RAN and visiting warships rendezvousing in Jervis Bay, NSW by 2 October 2013 to conduct final preparations and briefings. The formal aspects of the IFR will commence with all tall ships entering Sydney Harbour on Thursday 3 October 2013 and all warships entering on Friday 4 October 2013 - exactly 100 years after the first RAN Fleet entry.
              More event information is available on the International Fleet Review 2013 web pages.
              • Date: 3 October 2013 to 11 October 2013
              • Time: Refer to the Schedule of Events below
              • Where: Various locations around Sydney, NSW
              • Cost: Free

               

              Schedule of Events

              Note: The following program is subject to change.

              3 October 2013

              • Warships depart for passage to Sydney.
              • Tall ships entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) "Team Navy ASRL Flotilla". Location: Sydney Harbour.

              4 October 2013

              • Fleet entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Australian Surf Rowers League luncheon. Location: Sydney Opera House.

              5 October 2013

              • Dress ship. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
              • Ceremonial Fleet Review. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Formation flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Military demonstrations.
              • Pyrotechnics and Lightshow. Location: Sydney Harbour.

              6 October 2013

              • Ships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
              • Interfaith Religious Service. Location: St Mary's Cathedral.

              7 October 2013

              • Opening of Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific Maritime Trade Show (Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition). Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
              • Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
              • Combined Navies Band concert (to be confirmed).
              • Ships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.

              8 October 2013

              • Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
              • Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
              • Memorial Service. Location: Cenotaph, Martin Place.

              9 October 2013

              • Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
              • Combined Navies Parade. Location: George Street - The Rocks to Town Hall.
              • Food Festival/BBQ for parade participants. Location: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
              • Sea Power Conference 2013. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
              • Twilight sailing with RAN Sailing Association. Location: Sydney Harbour.
              • Closing of Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.

              10 October 2013

              • Tall ships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.

              11 October 2013

              • Warships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.

              Need affordable and comfortable accommodation close the fleet locations in Sydney?

              Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close these venues and major public transport hubs. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!


              Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Many of the fleet locations can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.


              Want discounts on your stay at Metro Hotels around Sydney? Here are some specials:


              Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
              Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:




              Winter Sydney Great Saver @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
              Metro Hotel is offering this Winter Sydney - Great Saver package for $129.00 per room per night including:
              • Free wireless internet 
              • Free Breakfast for 2 adult 
              • Free bottle of wine on arrival 
              • Free late check out by 12 noon (Subject to availability).
              • Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307




              Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package @ Metro on Pitt
              Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package including:




              Park and Stay Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel
              Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Park and Stay Special:

              Sunday, April 21, 2013

              Plans for Sydney Showground Expansion Revealed


              Plans to expand the exhibition facilities at the Sydney Showground were announced at the Exhibition and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA) 2013 Leaders Forum this week.

              The Sydney Showground told industry leaders it would be calling for tenders for a new purpose-built exhibition pavilion of 8,000sqm of clear span exhibition space with a total footprint of 11,000sqm. This would take Sydney Showground’s total offering to 30,000sqm, making it the largest in Sydney.

              Sydney Showground GM, Peter Thorpe, said the EEAA Leaders Forum provided the perfect platform to announce their plans. “With more than 50 industry leaders present, all engaged in two days of leadership and business planning, the forum provided an excellent opportunity for us to ensure our planning is robust and future focused and that our infrastructure is capable of meeting business needs and demands,” he added.

              Joyce DiMascio, GM of the EEAA said the new facilities will allow Sydney Showground to attract new events and to meet the demand for space to stage events in the expanding events industry.

              “The significant investment in infrastructure for exhibitions and events is a very positive sign for the continued expansion of the industry,” she added. “Increased capacity offers new opportunities for organisers and suppliers as well as improved visitor and exhibitor experiences.

              “The news of Sydney Showground's expansion plans comes at a time when the landscape for venues in Sydney is changing substantially. The EEAA has long-advocated the merits of dual precinct strategy for major expos.”

              The new building is to be located next to the Dome and Halls with details of intended design to be released at the conclusion of the tender period in mid to late May 2013.

              Following the closure of the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre in December 2013, Sydney Harbour Expo at Glebe Island will provide 25,000sqm of space and now the Sydney Showground will also provide additional space.

              Sunday, February 24, 2013

              The Future is Bright for Business Events in Sydney


              Business Events Sydney (BESydney), in partnership 12 co-exhibitors, will shine the spotlight on Sydney’s spectacularly bright future at this month’s Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expos (AIME).

              Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 26-27 February, AIME is the Asia-Pacific region’s must-attend event for the meetings and events industry.

              Sydney and NSW’s world-class venues and suppliers will fly the flag for NSW at the Destination Sydney stand (#1522), showcasing the scope of the state’s unique opportunities for event planners.

              The harbour city will also be showing off Australia’s largest convention and exhibition facilities – an exciting development that will bolster the city’s already stellar reputation as one of the world’s favourite places to do business.

              The International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) will have its own stand (#1422), where AIME visitors will be able to see a model of the current design and talk to the consortium that will build and operate the facilities when they open in late 2016.

              Other new developments on show include The Star’s recently opened Event Centre, a multi-purpose venue designed to host A-list acts, conferences, exhibitions and awards functions, and Royal Randwicks’ $150 million redevelopment (opening in August), which includes a four-star hotel, ballroom and outdoor amphitheatre, as fantastic locations for upcoming business events.

              Construction is also currently underway at Barangaroo, a 22-hectare former container port that is being transformed into a $6 billion extension of the city and which will include office space, residential apartments, public parks and event space, and a hotel, cafes and shops.

              Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO of BESydney, says that Sydney is open for business, and industries, government and communities are working together like never before.

              “The venue options are abundant in Sydney and the redevelopment of Darling Harbour is the perfect opportunity for the city to showcase its diverse venues and the agility and flexibility of its suppliers,” Ms Lewis-Smith says.

              “Also, many national conferences are literally getting out of town and benefitting from the unique activities and specialised knowledge hubs in regional NSW locations such as the Hunter Valley and Wollongong,” Ms Lewis-Smith said.

              “NSW welcomes almost half of all international business arrivals to Australia. We are, and will continue to be, the country’s premier business events destination, now and in the future.”

              Destination Presentations will be held at the Destination Sydney stand on Tuesday February 26 at 11.35 am and Wednesday February 27 at 1.15 pm. Register at www.aime.com.au  to attend.