Melbourne’s Data Centre and AI Success Sets the Stage for 2027

Data Center World Australia & The AI Summit Australia

Melbourne has strengthened its reputation as a leading destination for technology-focused business events following the successful inaugural Australian editions of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia.

Held at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the co-located events brought together technology leaders, innovators, investors and decision-makers to examine the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, data centres and digital infrastructure.

Following the success of the 2026 debut, organisers have confirmed the events will return to Melbourne in 2027, providing another major opportunity for Australia's technology sector to connect with global expertise and explore emerging business opportunities.

AI and Digital Infrastructure Meet in Melbourne

Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia were designed to bring two closely connected industries together. Artificial intelligence increasingly depends on powerful computing infrastructure, while the rapid growth of AI is creating new demands for data centres, energy, cooling, connectivity and cybersecurity.

The Melbourne events provided a shared platform where these issues could be explored together, creating opportunities for technology businesses, government representatives, infrastructure providers and enterprise leaders to exchange ideas and develop new connections.

The official event program featured keynote presentations, conferences, panel discussions, networking, technical tours, masterclasses and an exhibition showcasing technologies supporting the next generation of AI and digital infrastructure.

Industry Leaders Explore the Future

The AI Summit Australia

The inaugural Australian events attracted prominent speakers and technology leaders from government and major international companies, including representatives from the Australian Department of Defence, Mercedes-Benz, DHL and Amazon Web Services.

Topics explored across the program included artificial intelligence, data centre development, cloud computing, sustainability, cybersecurity, investment, workforce development and the infrastructure required to support increasingly sophisticated AI workloads.

The co-location of the two events also created a valuable opportunity to consider AI from both the business and infrastructure perspectives. The AI Summit focused on practical enterprise AI applications and measurable outcomes, while Data Center World addressed the infrastructure needed to scale digital technologies.

Melbourne Builds Technology Event Momentum

Melbourne provided a strong setting for the inaugural Australian events, with Victoria offering a growing technology ecosystem, research capability and expanding digital infrastructure sector.

The events also showcased Melbourne as a destination for international conferences that connect business, innovation and investment. The Victorian Government has identified data centres and artificial intelligence as important areas of future economic growth, while the city's convention infrastructure provides a central venue for major international business events.

With organisers now planning a return to Melbourne in 2027, the success of the inaugural events is expected to strengthen the city's position in Australia's rapidly developing AI and data centre landscape.

Data Center World and The AI Summit Australia 2027

The AI Summit Australia

The return of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia will give technology professionals another opportunity to connect with industry leaders, discover emerging technologies and explore the future of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.

For business event travellers, technology companies, investors and decision-makers searching for major technology conferences in Melbourne, the 2027 return promises to build on the momentum established by the inaugural Australian edition.

Data Center World Australia

Website: https://datacenterworldaustralia.com/
Email: info@informa.com.au

The AI Summit Australia

Website: https://australia.theaisummit.com/

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Meet the AIME Team at AuSAE ACE 2026 in Brisbane

Brooke Campbell

AIME Heads to Brisbane for ACE 2026

Brisbane will become a meeting place for association professionals and the business events industry when AuSAE ACE 2026 takes place from 26 to 28 August at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Among the exhibitors will be the AIME team, with Silke Calder and Brooke Campbell attending to connect with association buyers, industry colleagues and business events professionals. AIME is Asia Pacific’s largest and longest-running business events exhibition and learning platform, connecting global business event professionals with destinations and industry suppliers.

For delegates attending ACE 2026, the AIME stand will provide an opportunity to meet the team, discover the latest developments and learn more about opportunities within the region’s leading business events marketplace.

Connect with Silke Calder and Brooke Campbell

Silke Calder, AIME Event Director, and Brooke Campbell, Buyer Engagement Director, will be in Brisbane throughout ACE 2026.

Their presence highlights the strong connection between the association sector and the wider business events community. For association buyers and event professionals, meeting directly with the AIME team provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships and discover what is ahead for AIME.

AIME’s 2026 edition in Melbourne demonstrated the continued strength of the show, attracting 5,000 attendees, while the exhibition remains focused on creating meaningful connections between buyers and suppliers.

Julius Solaris Makes His Australian Debut

One of the highlights of ACE 2026 will be the Australian debut of global events leader Julius Solaris.

Solaris will appear in Brisbane on Wednesday 26 August for a standalone industry keynote before joining the ACE 2026 Welcome Reception. The session will explore how events can create measurable value and lasting impact, with fresh perspectives on attendee experience, sponsorship, engagement, technology and event design.

The standalone session is open beyond ACE conference delegates, making it an opportunity for the broader Australian events community to hear one of the industry's prominent international voices.

ACE 2026: Driving Impact

The theme for ACE 2026 is Driving Impact, placing purpose, leadership, measurable outcomes and meaningful contribution at the centre of the three-day program.

The event brings together association leaders, association professionals, event managers, program directors and sector suppliers for networking, practical ideas and professional development at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

For visitors to Brisbane, ACE 2026 also provides an opportunity to experience Queensland’s capital while connecting with professionals from across Australia and the international association and business events sectors.

Meet the AIME Team in Brisbane

Silke Calder

Delegates attending AuSAE ACE 2026 are encouraged to stop by and meet Silke Calder and Brooke Campbell to discover the latest AIME news, developments and opportunities.

With AIME continuing to strengthen its role as a major Asia Pacific business events platform, ACE 2026 provides an ideal setting for new conversations and connections between the association and business events communities.

AIME Contact Details

AIME – Asia Pacific Incentives & Meetings Event
Website: www.aime.com.au
Email: silke.calder@talk2.media
Phone: Contact via the official AIME website
Address: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf VIC 3006, Australia

AuSAE ACE 2026 Contact Details

The Australasian Society of Association Executives
Website: www.ausae.org.au
Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 within Australia
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia

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DinoFest Roars Back into Melbourne: A Prehistoric Adventure for Melbourne Families This Spring

DinoFest

Melbourne families are about to come face-to-face with some of history's most fascinating creatures when DinoFest returns to Nortons Park at Wantirna South for the 2026 spring school holidays.

Following a sell-out Melbourne season last year, DinoFest will once again transform the park into an immersive prehistoric playground, bringing more than 30 massive walking and interactive dinosaurs to life.

Running from 19 September to 4 October, excluding 23, 28 and 29 September, with additional shows on 10 and 11 October 2026, DinoFest Melbourne Spring 2026 promises a fun-filled outdoor experience designed especially for children aged nine and younger.

With life-size dinosaurs, baby prehistoric creatures, interactive activities, a Dinosaur Encounter live show and educational experiences, DinoFest offers families an opportunity to step away from screens and spend time together outdoors.

More Than 30 Dinosaurs Take Over Nortons Park

The star attraction at DinoFest is undoubtedly its extraordinary collection of prehistoric creatures.

Visitors can follow the Dino Trail and encounter more than 30 dinosaurs, including a life-size walking Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Spinosaurus, Pachycephalosaurus and Ankylosaurus.

Towering above the experience is a Brachiosaurus, while the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex provides the ultimate prehistoric encounter.

The dinosaurs are designed to be interactive and engaging, allowing children to experience the excitement of seeing these remarkable creatures up close.

For younger visitors, the experience is particularly appealing because DinoFest has been designed specifically with children aged nine and younger in mind.

Meet Two Adorable Baby Dinosaurs

There will be two new stars at DinoFest Melbourne this spring.

Two baby robot dinosaurs will make their DinoFest debut, adding a new dimension to the family experience.

Smaller and more agile than their fully grown prehistoric counterparts, the baby dinosaurs are designed to provide young visitors with an especially engaging and memorable encounter.

Their arrival adds another reason for families who visited DinoFest last year to return and discover what is new for 2026.

Step Into the Dinosaur Encounter

DinoFest

One of the highlights of DinoFest is the 45-minute Dinosaur Encounter live show.

Walking dinosaurs bring the prehistoric world to life while children watch these impressive creatures move, interact and demonstrate their distinctive characteristics.

The live encounter provides an opportunity for children to learn about dinosaurs while enjoying the excitement of seeing them moving in front of them.

It is an experience designed to combine entertainment with education, encouraging children to ask questions and develop an interest in prehistoric life and the natural world.

A Dino Trail Filled With Prehistoric Giants

The Dino Trail provides families with an opportunity to explore the outdoor DinoFest setting while discovering dinosaurs along the way.

From enormous herbivores to powerful predators, the trail introduces children to a variety of prehistoric creatures.

The experience is designed to encourage curiosity and imagination, allowing young visitors to picture what life may have been like when dinosaurs ruled the Earth.

For parents, it is also an opportunity to turn a family day out into an informal learning experience.

Dig for Dinosaurs and Feel a Fossil

DinoFest goes beyond simply looking at dinosaurs.

Children can participate in a range of themed activities designed to encourage hands-on discovery.

The Dino Dig allows young explorers to investigate the prehistoric world, while arts and crafts activities provide an opportunity to create dinosaur-themed projects.

Another educational attraction is Feel a Fossil, where children can handle real dinosaur bones.

These activities help make science and natural history accessible and entertaining for younger visitors.

Where Dinosaurs Meet the Great Outdoors

DinoFest

Nortons Park provides a natural outdoor setting for DinoFest, with established trees, greenery and open spaces creating a distinctive backdrop for the prehistoric adventure.

The outdoor format gives families the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and open space while exploring the dinosaur attractions.

DinoFest Founder Laurence Taylor said the decision to return to Nortons Park followed the strong response from Melbourne families during last year's event.

The park's natural environment also helps distinguish DinoFest from a traditional indoor exhibition, creating an experience where children can move around, explore and interact with the attractions.

Learning Through the Wonder of Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs have an enduring fascination for children, and DinoFest uses that curiosity as a pathway into science and natural history.

The experience encourages children to learn more about prehistoric animals and the world in which they lived.

DinoFest also aims to challenge some of the myths about dinosaurs that have become popular through movies and popular culture.

By combining education with entertainment, the event encourages children to develop a genuine interest in science and the natural world.

For parents, this can make DinoFest a particularly rewarding school holiday activity.

DinoFest Melbourne 2026 Dates and Sessions

DinoFest Melbourne Spring 2026 will run at Nortons Park during the Victorian spring school holiday period.

The main event dates are 19 September to 4 October 2026, excluding 23, 28 and 29 September.

Additional weekend sessions will take place on 10 and 11 October to meet demand.

There will be three 90-minute sessions each day: 10.30am, 1.00pm, 3.00pm

Attendance numbers are capped for each session, with the organisers encouraging families to book ahead.

A Family Day Out in Melbourne

DinoFest

DinoFest provides a different kind of Melbourne school holiday experience.

Rather than spending the day indoors, families can enjoy an outdoor adventure combining entertainment, education and prehistoric excitement.

The event is particularly suited to families with younger children who are fascinated by dinosaurs and enjoy interactive experiences.

It can also be a memorable activity for grandparents, extended families and groups of friends looking for something different to do during the spring school holidays.

Why Families Should Visit DinoFest Melbourne

DinoFest brings together many of the elements families look for in a school holiday activity.

Children can see giant walking dinosaurs, meet baby dinosaurs, explore a Dino Trail, participate in a Dino Dig, create dinosaur-themed arts and crafts and discover real dinosaur bones.

The experience also encourages children to learn about science and prehistoric life while having fun.

With more than 30 dinosaurs, a live Dinosaur Encounter and the introduction of two new baby robot dinosaurs, the 2026 Melbourne season promises plenty of reasons for families to make the journey to Wantirna South.

Plan Your Prehistoric Spring Adventure

For Melbourne families searching for things to do during the September 2026 school holidays, DinoFest provides an opportunity to make the prehistoric world come alive.

From the moment visitors enter Nortons Park, the combination of giant dinosaurs, natural surroundings and interactive activities creates an experience designed to capture children's imaginations.

Whether it is a child's first encounter with a Tyrannosaurus Rex or a return visit to discover the new baby dinosaurs, DinoFest offers a memorable family adventure.

With sessions limited and pre-booking strongly recommended, families planning to attend DinoFest Melbourne Spring 2026 should secure their tickets early.

The dinosaurs are coming back to Melbourne, and this spring they are ready to roar.

DinoFest

Website: https://www.dinofest.com/
Also check-out DinoFest on Facebook and Instagram.
Address: Nortons Park, Nortons Lane, Wantirna South, Melbourne VIC 3152, Australia.

Nortons Park

Address: Nortons Lane, Wantirna South, Melbourne VIC 3152, Australia
Parking: Free parking is available within walking distance of the event.

DinoFest Melbourne Spring 2026 at a Glance

Dates: 19 September to 4 October 2026, excluding 23, 28 and 29 September, plus 10 and 11 October 2026
Sessions: 10.30am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm
Session duration: 90 minutes
Location: Nortons Park, Nortons Lane, Wantirna South, Melbourne VIC 3152
Adult ticket: AUD29.50; Child ticket: AUD26.50; Children under two: Free
Experience highlights: 30+ dinosaurs, Dinosaur Encounter live show, Dino Trail, Dino Dig, arts and crafts, Feel a Fossil and two new baby robot dinosaurs
Parking: Free parking within walking distance
Bookings: Pre-booking strongly recommended

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Melbourne Gets Ready for NFL History as Los Angeles Rams Unveil Exciting Fan Experiences

floating football field

Melbourne is preparing for an unforgettable sporting spectacle as the Los Angeles Rams bring the excitement, energy and culture of American football to Australia ahead of the NFL's historic first regular season game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

On Friday 11 September 2026, the Los Angeles Rams will meet the San Francisco 49ers at the iconic MCG in the first-ever NFL regular season game to be played in Australia. Kick-off is scheduled for approximately 10.35am Australian Eastern Standard Time.

But for visitors heading to Melbourne for the landmark game, the excitement will extend well beyond the MCG. The Los Angeles Rams have announced a program of fan activities, entertainment and community initiatives designed to turn Melbourne into a celebration of NFL football throughout game week.

Rams House brings Los Angeles football to the Yarra River

The centrepiece of the Rams' Melbourne program will be Rams House: The LA Tailgate Experience, a free public fan zone being created along Crown Melbourne's Riverwalk from Thursday 10 September to Saturday 12 September.

The waterfront activation will give football fans and curious newcomers an opportunity to experience some of the traditions and atmosphere associated with an American football tailgate.

Crown Melbourne will become the Official Home of Los Angeles Rams Fans in Australia and the Official Fan Hotel, adding another dimension to the city's NFL celebrations.

For international visitors, the Riverwalk setting also provides an opportunity to combine the sporting experience with Melbourne's famous riverside dining, entertainment and city attractions.

The Tailgate delivers an authentic Rams experience

Rams House will be divided into two major areas, The Tailgate and The Deck presented by Microsoft Surface.

The Tailgate will recreate the colourful atmosphere of an American sporting tailgate with Chevrolet Silverados, a GMC Yukon, a Los Angeles Rams-branded lowrider, a Los Angeles-inspired food truck, merchandise kiosk and bar.

Live entertainment will add to the atmosphere, with Rams Cheerleaders, the Rams Mariachi band, a DJ and other performers helping create a distinctly Los Angeles feel on Melbourne's waterfront.

Fans will also have opportunities to photograph themselves with the Super Bowl LVI trophy, meet the Rams mascot Rampage and encounter Rams Legends.

For football newcomers, it promises to be an entertaining introduction to the personalities, traditions and spectacle surrounding the NFL.

A floating football field on the Yarra

floating football field

One of the most distinctive features of Rams House will be The Deck presented by Microsoft Surface.

The activation will include a 22-yard, approximately 20-metre floating football field on the Yarra River, together with a giant screen and viewing area.

The combination of football, entertainment and Melbourne's riverside setting is expected to create one of the city's most distinctive fan experiences during the historic NFL game week.

Additional programming and entertainment will be announced closer to the event, with the waterfront expected to become a sea of Rams Royal Blue and Sol.

Interactive experiences for fans

Rams House will also feature a series of interactive activities designed to put visitors closer to the action.

Grapes From California will present the Rams High Jump, inspired by its endorsement partnership with Rams wide receiver Davante Adams. The activity will challenge fans to test their catching ability.

National Storage will offer a co-branded trading card activation where visitors can have their photograph taken and receive a customised card featuring themselves.

These experiences add a playful element to the celebrations and give visitors something memorable to take away from Melbourne's NFL game week.

Building the future of flag football in Australia

The Rams' Melbourne program is not limited to entertainment.

On Tuesday 8 September and Wednesday 9 September, selected Victorian schools will participate in the Los Angeles Rams' inaugural Flag Football Community Day.

The initiative forms part of the LA Rams ANZ Community Program, which is designed to introduce flag football to more Australian students and establish a lasting grassroots pathway for the sport.

Up to 50 Victorian government schools, together with a founding group of independent schools, will participate. Teachers will receive specialist coaching education, students will take part in clinics and gala-day experiences, and participating schools will receive Rams Flag Football Starter Kits.

The initiative has been developed around the theme From Schoolyard to Stadium, linking a student's first introduction to flag football with the excitement of seeing an NFL team play at the MCG.

From schoolyards to the MCG

Los Angeles Rams Fans Experience

The community program is particularly significant as flag football continues to grow in Australia.

The Los Angeles Rams say the program is intended to create a sustainable pathway rather than operate as a one-off promotional event. Teacher education, equipment and continued school participation are designed to help students keep playing after the NFL game has left Melbourne.

The timing is also significant for the international development of the sport. Flag football will make its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028, providing a major global platform for the non-contact version of American football.

The NFL has previously reported that almost 100,000 people are already participating in flag football across more than 500 Australian schools.

More than a game for Melbourne

For the Los Angeles Rams, the Australian game represents an important milestone in a relationship with Australian fans that has been developing for several years.

The Rams have held international marketing rights in Australia and New Zealand through the NFL's Global Markets Program and have previously staged fan events, youth clinics, trophy tours and community activities in Australia.

Rams players and legends have also made appearances in Melbourne and Sydney, helping build awareness of the team and the sport ahead of the historic MCG fixture.

Stephanie Cheng, VP and Head of International for the Los Angeles Rams, said the Melbourne program was about more than simply staging a football game.

The aim, she said, is to deepen the team's connection with Australian fans, showcase the energy and culture surrounding NFL football and create lasting connections with local communities.

That approach gives the Melbourne event a broader significance. It is simultaneously a major international sporting occasion, a tourism opportunity, a fan celebration and an investment in the future of American football in Australia.

Crown Melbourne becomes Rams territory

Crown Melbourne will play a central role throughout the celebrations as the Rams' Official Home of Fans in Australia and Official Fan Hotel.

Located on the Yarra River in Southbank, Crown places visitors close to the Riverwalk, Melbourne's central business district, Southbank dining and entertainment, and many of the city's major attractions.

Crown Melbourne is also promoting a broad live sports program across its venues, making the precinct a natural base for visitors wanting to continue the sporting atmosphere beyond Rams House.

For visitors staying in Melbourne during NFL game week, the location provides a convenient base from which to explore the city while enjoying the special atmosphere surrounding Australia's NFL debut.

Explore Melbourne beyond the football

Los Angeles Rams Fans Experience

The NFL game provides an excellent reason to visit Melbourne, but the city offers plenty to fill the rest of a football-themed getaway.

Visitors can explore Melbourne's laneways and famous café culture, discover galleries and museums, enjoy restaurants along the Yarra and Southbank, or venture beyond the city to attractions such as the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island.

Melbourne's sporting precinct is also within easy reach of the city centre, making it possible for visitors to combine the NFL experience with sightseeing, dining and cultural experiences during their stay.

For international travellers, the Rams game therefore offers more than a single sporting event. It provides an opportunity to experience Melbourne during one of the most unusual and anticipated sporting weekends in the city's calendar.

A new chapter for American football in Australia

When the Rams and 49ers take the field at the MCG on Friday 11 September, the occasion will mark a new chapter in Australia's sporting history.

For Rams supporters, it will be a chance to see their team play on Australian soil. For NFL followers, it will be an opportunity to experience a regular season game in one of the world's great sporting venues. For newcomers to American football, the week-long program offers an accessible way to discover the sport through entertainment, interactive experiences and community activities.

And for Melbourne, the arrival of Rams House, the flag football program and the first NFL regular season game in Australia promises to create an atmosphere that will extend from schoolyards and the Yarra River to the MCG itself.

The roar of American football is coming to Melbourne, and the city is getting ready.

Los Angeles Rams

Website: www.therams.com
Melbourne Game Information: Los Angeles Rams Melbourne Game
International Australia Information: Los Angeles Rams Australia
Email: info@rams.nfl.com
Phone: +1 818 338 0011
Address: 29899 Agoura Road, Suite 210, Agoura Hills, California 91301, USA

Crown Melbourne

Website: www.crownmelbourne.com.au
Contact: Crown Melbourne Contact Us
Phone: +61 3 9292 8888
Address: 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia

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AIME 2027 Expands as Demand Soars: More Opportunities for Buyers and Exhibitors

AIME

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is preparing for its biggest edition yet, with organisers announcing an expansion of the exhibition floor at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in response to growing demand for AIME 2027.

The expansion reflects the continued strength of the global business events industry and the increasing number of destinations, venues, hotels, convention bureaux, event technology providers and tourism organisations eager to showcase their products and services at one of the world's leading business events trade exhibitions.

For both buyers and exhibitors, AIME 2027 promises more opportunities than ever before to connect, collaborate and create new business.

A Bigger Exhibition Means More Business Opportunities

The expanded exhibition floor will allow AIME to welcome additional exhibitors from Australia and around the world, creating an even broader marketplace for hosted buyers and trade visitors.

With more destinations, venues and suppliers represented, buyers will have access to a wider range of event solutions in one convenient location. Whether planning international conferences, incentive travel programs, corporate meetings or exhibitions, delegates will be able to compare products and services efficiently while discovering fresh ideas for future events.

For exhibitors, the expansion means exposure to a larger audience of qualified buyers actively seeking new partnerships and business opportunities.

More Appointments, Better Connections

One of the key advantages of attending AIME is its carefully managed appointment program.

As the exhibition grows, buyers will benefit from an increased number of pre-matched business appointments with exhibitors whose products and services align with their specific event requirements. This structured approach maximises every meeting, helping delegates spend more time discussing genuine business opportunities and less time searching for potential suppliers.

The result is a highly productive experience that delivers measurable outcomes for both buyers and exhibitors.

Discover New Destinations and Innovative Event Solutions

AIME

AIME has long been recognised as the place where the global business events industry comes together to share ideas, launch new products and showcase emerging destinations.

The expanded exhibition floor for 2027 means buyers can expect an even greater diversity of convention centres, hotels, destination management companies, tourism organisations and event technology providers.

This wider choice gives planners the opportunity to discover unique venues, innovative meeting solutions and exciting destinations capable of delivering memorable business events for delegates from around the world.

Prime Exhibition Spaces Now Available

With demand continuing to grow, organisers have released a limited number of new exhibition stand spaces.

These additional locations provide organisations with an outstanding opportunity to showcase their products and services to a highly qualified audience of decision-makers responsible for planning conferences, meetings, exhibitions and incentive travel.

Historically, the most desirable stand positions are secured quickly, making early reservations highly recommended for organisations wishing to maximise their visibility during the exhibition.

Why AIME Remains the Industry's Leading Marketplace

AIME has built its international reputation by bringing together the world's leading business events professionals in an environment designed specifically to generate business.

The combination of hosted buyers, pre-scheduled appointments, educational sessions, networking functions and world-class exhibitors continues to deliver exceptional value for everyone involved.

As AIME 2027 grows, its role as the premier marketplace for business events across the Asia-Pacific region becomes even stronger, offering greater opportunities for networking, collaboration and long-term commercial success.

Reserve Your Place at AIME 2027

AIME

Whether you are looking to promote a destination, launch a new venue, showcase event technology or connect with international buyers, AIME 2027 offers an unrivalled platform for business growth.

With new stand spaces now available and demand continuing to increase, organisations interested in exhibiting are encouraged to secure their preferred location as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

The expanded exhibition floor signals another exciting chapter for AIME, reinforcing its position as one of the world's most influential business events exhibitions.

Web Contact Details

For more information about exhibiting at AIME 2027 or to reserve your exhibition space, visit:
Website: https://aime.com.au/
Exhibitor Enquiries: aime.exhibitor@talk2.media
General Enquiries: aime.marketing@talk2.media

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AIME Strengthens Leadership Team as Momentum Builds Towards AIME 2027 in Melbourne

Brooke Campbell, Monica Kent-Giles, Silke Calder

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is strengthening its executive leadership team ahead of its 2027 edition in Melbourne, with the appointment of Monica Kent-Giles as AIME Marketing Director and Brooke Campbell as AIME Buyer Engagement Director.

The two senior appointments come as AIME continues to expand its influence across the Asia Pacific business events sector and prepares for AIME 2027, which will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15 to 17 February 2027.

AIME is Asia Pacific’s largest and longest-running business events exhibition and learning platform, bringing together business event professionals, destinations, convention bureaux, hotels, venues, event suppliers and other industry specialists. For 2027, AIME is targeting more than 25,000 meetings involving more than 800 exhibitors and 1,600 vetted buyers.

New Leadership to Drive AIME 2027 Forward

AIME Event Director Silke Calder, who enters her seventh year leading the AIME team, says the appointments of Kent-Giles and Campbell will add new expertise and perspectives as the event continues to grow.

The expanded leadership structure is designed to further strengthen the quality of connections between exhibitors and buyers while enhancing the overall experience for the international business events community.

AIME has experienced significant growth in recent years. Its 2026 edition welcomed more than 5,000 attendees, more than 765 exhibitors representing 36 countries and territories, and more than 1,500 vetted buyers. More than 25,000 pre-scheduled meetings took place across the two-day trade show.

With this growth comes an increasing need to maintain the quality of the meetings and relationships that sit at the heart of the AIME experience.

Monica Kent-Giles Brings Global Marketing Experience

Monica Kent-Giles joins AIME as Marketing Director, bringing extensive executive experience spanning brand management, internal and external communications, digital marketing and events across the Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and United States markets.

Her career began with the Melbourne Convention Bureau, giving her an early connection to the business events sector. She subsequently held senior marketing positions with News Corp in the United Kingdom and Australia, the Recruitment, Consulting and Staffing Association, Melbourne Airport and PMY Group.

Her combination of marketing, communications and events expertise provides AIME with additional capability as the event seeks to strengthen its profile in international markets.

Having attended AIME over many years, Kent-Giles has experienced first-hand the energy and business opportunities generated by the event.

She says joining the organisation at this stage represents an exciting opportunity to help further elevate AIME's global presence and build on the strong connections the event has established within the business events industry.

Brooke Campbell Takes on Newly Created Buyer Engagement Role

Brooke Campbell, Silke Calder, Monica Kent-Giles

Brooke Campbell joins the AIME leadership team as Buyer Engagement Director in a newly created position focused on strengthening the buyer journey and ensuring AIME continues to attract high-calibre business event planners from important global markets.

Campbell brings more than 20 years of experience across hotels, wholesale, corporate business, events, convention centres and destination bureaux.

Her previous senior roles include Director of Business Events at Experience Gold Coast, Sales Manager for Australia at the New Zealand International Convention Centre and Manager of Associations and Exhibitions at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the home of AIME.

Her experience across different sectors of the business events industry gives her a broad understanding of the needs of both buyers and suppliers.

Campbell says her priority will be to enhance the buyer journey while maintaining AIME's reputation for connecting exhibitors with carefully selected decision-makers who are ready to do business.

This focus is particularly important as AIME continues to grow its hosted buyer and meeting programs. The 2027 event is expected to feature more than 1,600 vetted buyers, 800-plus exhibiting organisations and more than 25,000 planned meetings.

The Buyer Journey Remains at the Heart of AIME

AIME's approach is built around creating meaningful business connections rather than simply providing a traditional exhibition floor.

The event uses human expertise combined with artificial intelligence to match exhibitors and buyers, with exhibitors benefiting from pre-scheduled appointments with carefully vetted buyers. This approach is intended to make meetings more relevant, productive and commercially valuable for participants.

For AIME 2027, the Hosted Buyer Program will again provide a structured pathway for qualified business event professionals to discover destinations, venues, accommodation, event technology, attractions, airlines and other suppliers while developing new business relationships.

The program includes matched meetings, networking opportunities, access to the Hosted Buyers Lounge and educational experiences designed to provide insights into the future of business events.

AIME 2027 Returns to Melbourne in February

AIME 2027 will begin with Knowledge Monday on Monday 15 February, followed by the AIME Welcome Event that evening.

The two-day trade show will take place on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 February at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the AIME Ideas Academy on the Floor providing practical insights and educational sessions throughout the exhibition.

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will once again provide the setting for the event, reinforcing Melbourne's position as one of Australia's leading destinations for conferences, incentives, exhibitions and corporate events.

AIME is owned by the Melbourne Convention Bureau and managed by Talk2 Media & Events, with the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre as its venue partner.

Building the Future of Business Events in Asia Pacific

Brooke Campbell, Silke Calder, Monica Kent-Giles

The appointment of Monica Kent-Giles and Brooke Campbell comes at an important time for AIME.

As business events become increasingly international and planners seek more personalised, productive and measurable connections, the ability to bring the right buyers and suppliers together has become central to the success of industry trade shows.

Kent-Giles' marketing and brand expertise and Campbell's extensive buyer and business events experience provide complementary strengths for AIME as it prepares for its next chapter.

Their appointments also reflect the evolution of AIME from a traditional trade show into a broader business events platform incorporating meetings, education, networking, technology and curated connections.

For exhibitors, buyers and destinations looking towards 2027, the strengthened AIME leadership team signals an ongoing commitment to quality, relevance and meaningful business outcomes.

Melbourne Ready to Welcome the Global Business Events Community

With AIME 2027 scheduled for February, preparations are already well underway for another major gathering of the Asia Pacific business events community.

The event will provide opportunities for destinations, hotels, venues, convention bureaux, airlines, attractions, event technology companies, destination management companies and other suppliers to meet qualified buyers and showcase their products and experiences.

For business event professionals looking for new partnerships, destinations and ideas, AIME 2027 is set to once again provide an important meeting point for the regional and international meetings industry.

With new executive leadership now in place, AIME is preparing to raise the bar once again when the global business events community gathers in Melbourne in February 2027.

AIME 

Website: www.aime.com.au
Email: aime@talk2.media
Phone: +61 493 505 631
Address: Level 14, 380 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia

For buyer enquiries, AIME lists Brooke Campbell, Buyer Engagement Director, as a contact for the Hosted Buyer program.

For more information about AIME 2027, visit AIME 2027.

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Meet the Experts Behind AIME 2027's World-Class Hosted Buyer Experience

Gemma-ann Taylor, Georgia Zagorac, Brooke Campbell, Felicity Fox

Every successful international business events exhibition depends on more than outstanding exhibitors and impressive venues. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure every hosted buyer enjoys a seamless, productive and rewarding experience. At AIME 2027, that responsibility rests with an experienced Buyer Engagement Team whose knowledge of the global meetings and events industry helps create one of the most respected hosted buyer programs in the world.

Whether you are applying for the first time or returning as an experienced hosted buyer, the AIME Buyer Engagement Team is committed to supporting you from your initial application through to your final appointment at the event.

A Team Dedicated to Buyer Success

Attending AIME as a Hosted Buyer is designed to be both efficient and valuable. From the moment an application is submitted, buyers receive personalised support that helps simplify the entire process.

The Buyer Engagement Team assists with buyer qualifications, appointment scheduling, travel arrangements and matching delegates with exhibitors whose products and destinations best suit their business objectives. Their goal is to ensure every hosted buyer gains maximum value from every minute spent at AIME.

This personalised approach has become one of the defining features of the AIME Hosted Buyer Program and is a major reason why so many buyers return year after year.

Leading the Program with Industry Experience

Heading the Buyer Engagement Team is Brooke Campbell, Buyer Engagement Director, whose career spans more than 20 years across convention centres, destination marketing organisations and the international business events sector.

Her extensive experience includes senior leadership roles with Experience Gold Coast, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC). This wealth of knowledge enables her to understand exactly what hosted buyers require to build successful business relationships and source exceptional destinations and venues.

Her leadership continues to strengthen the hosted buyer experience while ensuring AIME remains one of the premier business events exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Connecting Buyers with the Right Business Partners

AIME

Working alongside Brooke Campbell are Buyer Managers Georgia Zagorac and Gemma-ann Taylor.

Together, they support qualified buyers from Australia, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. Their extensive backgrounds in conference management, business events strategy and buyer engagement allow them to carefully match delegates with exhibitors that align closely with their event requirements and business goals.

Their expertise ensures buyers spend valuable appointment time meeting organisations capable of delivering real business opportunities, whether sourcing convention venues, incentive destinations, hotels or innovative event services.

Building a Strong Global Buyer Community

Felicity Fox, Buyer Research and Recruitment Manager, plays a vital role in expanding the international reach of AIME.

With specialist expertise in buyer recruitment, research and market intelligence, she focuses on attracting high-quality buyers from around the world while maintaining a diverse and balanced hosted buyer community.

Her work helps ensure exhibitors meet decision-makers representing a wide range of industries, markets and geographical regions, creating stronger networking opportunities and more valuable commercial outcomes for everyone involved.

Support Every Step of the Journey

One of the greatest strengths of the AIME Hosted Buyer Program is the personalised support buyers receive before, during and after the exhibition.

From answering application questions and coordinating appointments to helping delegates navigate the event, the Buyer Engagement Team remains available throughout the entire journey. Their commitment allows buyers to focus on discovering new destinations, developing business relationships and planning future meetings, conferences and incentive travel programs.

This high level of professional support has helped establish AIME as one of the most respected business events trade exhibitions globally.

Why AIME Continues to Attract Buyers Worldwide

AIME

AIME brings together leading destinations, convention bureaux, hotels, venues, event technology companies and suppliers from across the world. Combined with a carefully managed hosted buyer program and an experienced engagement team, the event provides an efficient marketplace where business events professionals can source products, generate new ideas and establish long-term partnerships.

For organisations responsible for planning conferences, exhibitions, meetings and incentive travel, AIME continues to deliver outstanding opportunities to connect with industry leaders while exploring the latest innovations shaping the future of business events.

AIME

For more information about the AIME Hosted Buyer Program or to speak with the Buyer Engagement Team, visit:
Website: https://aime.com.au/
Buyer Enquiries: aime.buyers@talk2.media
General Enquiries: aime.marketing@talk2.media

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AIME 2027 Opens the Door to New Business Events Opportunities as Hosted Buyer Applications Near

AIME

The countdown has begun for one of the Asia-Pacific region's most influential business events exhibitions, with buyer applications for AIME 2027 set to open soon. Event planners, incentive specialists, corporate travel managers and association professionals are being encouraged to express their interest early as demand is expected to be stronger than ever.

Recognised as the premier business events exhibition in the Asia-Pacific, AIME continues to bring together the world's leading destinations, convention centres, hotels, event technology providers and tourism organisations under one roof. For buyers seeking to source venues, build partnerships and discover innovative event solutions, AIME 2027 promises to be an even bigger and more rewarding experience.

Why AIME 2027 Matters to the Global Business Events Industry

AIME has earned an international reputation as the event where meaningful business relationships begin. Rather than spending months researching destinations, arranging meetings and comparing suppliers, qualified buyers can achieve all of this within three highly productive days.

The exhibition provides direct access to hundreds of exhibitors representing destinations across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and beyond. From luxury hotels and convention centres to destination management companies and event technology specialists, AIME showcases the latest products and services shaping the future of meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

For organisations planning conferences, corporate meetings, incentive travel programs or international events, AIME offers an efficient way to compare options and build lasting partnerships.

Hosted Buyer Program Delivers Outstanding Value

One of the major attractions of AIME is its highly regarded Hosted Buyer Program.

Qualified buyers receive an impressive package designed to make attendance as seamless and productive as possible. The hosted program includes return flights to Melbourne, airport transfers, premium accommodation and exclusive access to the Buyers' Lounge, where breakfast, morning tea and lunch are provided throughout the event.

Hosted buyers are also invited to participate in Knowledge Monday, networking lunches, welcome functions and a variety of exclusive industry events that encourage collaboration and relationship building.

The hosted experience allows delegates to focus entirely on discovering new destinations, meeting suppliers and creating future business opportunities.

AI-Powered Appointment Matching Creates Better Business Connections

AIME

AIME continues to embrace innovation with its advanced artificial intelligence-powered appointment matching system.

Rather than random networking, the platform analyses each buyer's business requirements and connects them with exhibitors offering products and services that closely match their event needs. This intelligent approach helps maximise every appointment, ensuring buyers spend more time with the suppliers most relevant to their future business.

The result is a more efficient exhibition experience and stronger commercial outcomes for both buyers and exhibitors.

Discover New Destinations and Fresh Ideas

Each edition of AIME introduces buyers to emerging destinations, exciting venues and innovative event concepts.

Whether planning a small executive meeting, a major international convention or a large-scale incentive program, buyers gain valuable insights into destinations they may never have previously considered.

From sustainable event venues and luxury accommodation to cutting-edge technology and unique cultural experiences, AIME provides inspiration that can transform future events.

Many buyers return year after year because the exhibition consistently delivers fresh ideas, trusted partnerships and new business opportunities.

Why Buyers Keep Returning to AIME

One of the strongest endorsements of AIME comes directly from its returning buyers.

Many describe the exhibition as the place where long-term business relationships are formed and where ideas for future events become reality. The opportunity to meet decision-makers face-to-face, compare destinations and experience the latest industry innovations makes AIME an essential event on the international business events calendar.

The combination of quality exhibitors, structured appointments, educational sessions and networking opportunities creates exceptional value for buyers seeking to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry.

Express Your Interest Early

AIME

With buyer applications opening soon and interest expected to be exceptionally strong, prospective hosted buyers are encouraged to register their interest as early as possible.

Early expressions of interest place applicants at the front of the queue as the selection process begins, helping ensure they do not miss the opportunity to participate in one of the world's leading business events exhibitions.

For anyone responsible for sourcing venues, planning conferences, organising incentive travel or developing future meetings, AIME 2027 offers an outstanding opportunity to discover new destinations, establish valuable partnerships and shape the next generation of business events.

AIME

For more information about AIME 2027 or to express your interest in becoming a Hosted Buyer, visit:
AIME – https://aime.com.au/
Email: aime.marketing@talk2.media

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Melbourne Wins Global RoboCup 2028 as Australia Becomes the Future Home of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Melbourne has once again demonstrated why it is one of the world's leading destinations for international business events after securing the prestigious RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium for 2028. The globally recognised event will bring together thousands of robotics experts, researchers, students and technology innovators from around the world, further cementing Melbourne's reputation as Australia's innovation capital.

To be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), RoboCup 2028 is expected to attract up to 3,000 delegates, more than 15,000 spectators and generate an estimated economic impact exceeding $14 million for Victoria's visitor economy.

The successful bid represents another major achievement for Melbourne's thriving business events sector and further strengthens the city's growing international profile in robotics, artificial intelligence and advanced technology.

Melbourne Becomes the Global Stage for Robotics Innovation

RoboCup is recognised as the world's largest and most prestigious robotics and artificial intelligence competition.

Founded to accelerate the development of intelligent robotics through real-world challenges, RoboCup provides an international platform where universities, research organisations, technology companies and students showcase groundbreaking innovations that could shape the future of society.

Visitors attending RoboCup 2028 will witness autonomous robots competing in soccer tournaments, advanced disaster response simulations, industrial manufacturing challenges and logistics competitions. The event also features RoboCupJunior, where school-aged students demonstrate their own robotic creations while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.

The combination of cutting-edge technology and interactive public demonstrations makes RoboCup one of the world's most exciting science and technology events.

A Winning Partnership Delivers the Event

The successful bid was led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau in partnership with the RoboCup Federation, RMIT University and RoboCup Junior Australia.

Strong support from the Victorian Government, Tourism Australia's Business Events Bid Fund and professional conference organiser ICMS Australasia helped secure the highly competitive international event.

Their collaborative efforts demonstrated Melbourne's exceptional capability to host major global conferences while showcasing Victoria's strengths in innovation, education and advanced technology.

Victoria Leads Australia's Artificial Intelligence Revolution

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Victoria has become one of the Asia-Pacific region's fastest-growing centres for robotics, automation and artificial intelligence.

Home to internationally recognised universities, leading research institutions, innovative technology companies and advanced manufacturing industries, Melbourne provides an ideal environment for collaboration between academia and industry.

Its strengths in automation, digital technologies, engineering and applied artificial intelligence continue to attract international investment while producing world-class research and technological breakthroughs.

Hosting RoboCup will further strengthen Victoria's position as a global leader in future technologies and innovation.

A Major Boost for Business Events and Tourism

Beyond the technological achievements, RoboCup 2028 will deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for Melbourne and Victoria.

Thousands of international delegates will spend several days exploring the city while attending the conference and competition, supporting hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport providers and local businesses.

Many visitors are also expected to extend their stay before or after the event to experience Melbourne's celebrated dining scene, cultural attractions, sporting precincts, nearby wine regions and the spectacular Great Ocean Road.

Business events such as RoboCup continue to demonstrate how international conferences contribute not only to knowledge sharing but also to long-term tourism growth.

Melbourne's Growing International Events Calendar

RoboCup joins an impressive calendar of international conferences already secured for Melbourne.

The city will also host the inaugural Australian AI Summit in September 2026, attracting more than 800 delegates, alongside the IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces and the International Conference on Neural Information Processing.

These events reinforce Melbourne's position as one of the Southern Hemisphere's leading destinations for knowledge exchange, scientific collaboration and international business events.

Industry Leaders Welcome the Announcement

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Victorian Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said Victoria is the ideal destination to host RoboCup, highlighting the state's globally recognised strengths in technology, advanced manufacturing and digital innovation.

Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson said securing RoboCup 2028 reinforces Melbourne's reputation as a city where innovation thrives. She noted that bringing together the world's leading robotics experts will strengthen international collaboration while inspiring future generations of scientists and engineers.

RoboCup Federation President Ubbo Visser welcomed the opportunity to return to Melbourne, recalling that the city was one of RoboCup's inaugural host destinations more than twenty-five years ago. He praised the quality of Melbourne's successful bid and said the global RoboCup community looks forward to returning to Australia.

Tourism Australia Executive General Manager Industry and Business Events Sally Cope said RoboCup 2028 would deliver substantial economic benefits while reinforcing Australia's standing as a premier destination for world-leading technology conferences and business events.

A Bright Future for Innovation and Travel

The successful bid for RoboCup 2028 highlights Melbourne's continuing ability to attract internationally significant events that combine tourism, education, research and economic development.

As artificial intelligence and robotics increasingly shape industries around the world, Melbourne will become the global meeting place where researchers, students, businesses and innovators come together to exchange ideas, develop new technologies and inspire future generations.

For travellers with an interest in technology, innovation and the future of science, RoboCup 2028 promises to be one of Australia's most exciting international events.

Melbourne Convention Bureau

Website: https://www.melbournecb.com.au/

RoboCup Federation Website: https://www.robocup.org
RoboCup Junior (Australia) Inc. https://www.robocupjunior.org.au/robocup-major/
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Website: https://www.mcec.com.au
Tourism Australia – Business Events Australia Website: https://businessevents.australia.com/en

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