New Events head for Victoria
The new CEO of the Victorian Major Events Company (VMEC) has the right credentials to ensure the continuing strength of Victoria’s world-class events calendar, according to peak tourism industry group TTF Australia (Tourism & Transport Forum).
TTF Managing Director Christopher Brown said Brendan McClements’ experience at the International Cricket Council and more recently within VMEC itself made him the ideal candidate to carry on the legacy of former CEO Peter Abraam.
“Victoria’s superb major events calendar is an intrinsic part of its powerful tourism brand,” Mr Brown said.
“As a former senior executive at the Australian Cricket Board, Brendan McClements knows better than most the central role that events play in Victoria’s sporting and cultural life.
“Between regular blue riband events such as the Australian open and the Australian Grand Prix and one-off spectaculars such as the Commonwealth Games, Melbourne has nailed down the title of Australia’s events capital in recent years.
“In recent years VMEC has gone from strength to strength, securing Bledisloe Cup matches and Socceroos World Cup Qualifiers’ in the sporting sphere and bringing landmark cultural programs such as the Winter Masterpieces to Melbourne.
“I have no doubt that Mr McClements will maintain this trajectory as VMEC consolidates Victoria’s existing events and wins exciting new ones for the state.”
Mr Brown said major events were an essential part of the tourism mix for any major city.
“Major events generate buzz around a location, boost visitor numbers and expenditure and provide a unique, interactive marketing opportunity.
“The Victorian Government has been exemplary in its financial support for major events, setting the standard for other states around Australia.”
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