AUSTRALASIA - The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) has welcomed today’s (30 September) announcement from the New South Wales (NSW) Government that plans for Sydney’s new convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct have been revised following industry feedback.
 
NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell today called for expressions of interest from the private sector to build a revitalised events and entertainment precinct at Darling Harbour.
 
CMW recently reported the Sydney convention centre plans had been deemed inadequate by meetings industry figures and needed to be expanded.

EEAA GM Joyce DiMascio said the EEAA had played a leading role in communicating industry needs for the new precinct, following the launch of initial design concepts in July.
 
“EEAA brought together the major users and key industry associations to deliver the government a strong message about what was needed in Sydney,” said DiMascio. “The Government has revised its brief as a result of this timely and compelling input from our members and partners and with today’s announcement Sydney moves a step closer to reclaiming its position as one of the world’s leading event and exhibition destinations.”
 
The expanded scope of plans will see the development of new facilities and refurbishment of existing facilities across a 12-hectare site at Darling Harbour and provide the private sector the opportunity to propose renewal of existing facilities and build new facilities over a larger footprint.
 
The expressions of interest will close on 11 November and will be followed by a Request for Proposals, with the development of the Sydney International Convention, Exhibition and Entertainment Precinct scheduled for completion in 2016.
 
“EEAA commends the Government for listening to feedback and acting on industry needs. We are also pleased that the importance of major exhibitions has been recognised in the name of the project,” said Ms DiMascio.
 
The EEAA is the peak association for the exhibition and event industry, representing organisers, venues and suppliers. As a not-for-profit organisation, EEAA’s primary objective is to maintain high industry standards and ensure industry growth by promoting the professionalism of EEAA members.
 
Any conference-related news? Email sarah@mashmedia.net