Melbourne rides the recovery in Asia
MELBOURNE – The recovery in Asian economies is good news for Melbourne, says Sandra Chipchase, CEO of the Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau (MCVB).
“Melbourne went through a pretty rough trot with the global financial crisis but what I’m hearing now from people who cancelled meetings and events is that they’re ready to do business again.â€
The MCVB will lead incentive roadshows to Indonesia and Korea this year to take advantage of strengthening economies in those countries.
“Asia Pacific is a very different beast to the US and Europe,†Chipchase said.
“Thailand was dead for a while but is now showing strong corporate growth,†she said.
The MCVB has released a Made in Melbourne e-brochure for the incentive market.
It lists activities unique to Melbourne, such as indigenous painting workshops, designing and making hats and headpieces, and surfboard and cricket bat making.
“Melbourne is a participation city, it’s not for spectators,†Chipchase said.
Melbourne secured major international conventions worth more than $100 million in the 2009/10 financial year to date, expected to attract more than 20,000 delegates.
Wins secured over the last eight months follow a record performance in the 2008/09 financial year, during which the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau won the most business in its history, achieving a fourth year of record results.
Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME), Chipchase, said a series of strategies to extend Melbourne’s international reach, and a commitment to increase government and member partnerships, are key driving forces behind the Bureau’s success.
Ian Jarrett
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