Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre wins National Banqueting and Catering Award

THE LUME Melbourne

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) Food and Beverage team were recognised at the prestigious National MEA Awards last night for the bespoke retail and catering menus designed for THE LUME Melbourne.

THE LUME Melbourne, created by Grande Experiences and permanently located at MCEC, is an immersive digital art gallery, incorporating design, sights, sounds, aromas and tastes.

MCEC’s award-winning team showcased their expertise and creativity in designing premium lunch and dinner menus for the dedicated café, as well as customised menus for events, that align with and elevate the exhibit, delivering an authentic experience for visitors.

In line with MCEC’s strong sustainability focus, the café and event menus were designed to be 100% sustainable. Menus feature high-quality Victorian seasonal produce, locally sourced beers, seltzers, spirits and wines. Food waste is donated for redistribution through food rescue organisation, OzHarvest or processed onsite in MCEC’s organic dehydrator.

For corporate event organisers, MCEC offers opportunities to host events on the mezzanine level as well as exclusive events throughout the gallery. MCEC’s culinary experts design customised event menus to align with the theme of the exhibition, or to meet the customer’s specifications. MCEC was honoured to host the 2022 AFL Season Launch and collaborate with Indigenous Chef and founder of Mabu Mabu, Nornie Bero to deliver a unique menu for the event.

MCEC’s Head of Food and Beverage, Paul Kanaan was proud to accept the National MEA Banqueting and Catering Award last night. “Developing an immersive food and beverage menu is no easy task. Thank you to MEA and the awards committee for continuing to recognise the critical role that F&B play in elevating the event experience.”

“The MCEC team pours their heart and soul into creating unforgettable experiences for guests. This award is a testament to their tireless efforts to push boundaries, raise the bar, and deliver memorable experiences for everyone who visits our centre,” he added.

The next instalment of THE LUME, Connection opening later this month, is the largest representation of First Nations people and culture ever assembled. The menu will showcase Australian native and locally-grown ingredients. Each dish carries a cultural legacy and extends the experience of the exhibition, playing a vital role in educating and connecting visitors to the oldest living culture in the world.

*Source: MCEC, 1 Convention Place, South Wharf, VIC 3006, Australia