Convention bureaux head for the red centre

The Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB) staff conference, with its theme of 'Get CeNTred', will be held at Voyages Ayers Rock Resort later this week - from 6th to 9th September.

The conference brings together professionals from the 17 member city and regional convention bureaux across Australia and will feature a combination of keynotes speakers and meetings industry experts delivering a program of plenary sessions, breakouts, social activities and touring options designed to enhance the professional development of bureaux staff, and foster stronger networks across the bureaux community.

During the three-day event more than 80 convention bureau staff from around Australia will undertake a Corporate Social Responsibility activity showcasing Anangu secondary students at the Nyangatjatjara College campus near the Resort. The group will have an introduction to the college, its values and teaching philosophy, and then undertake an activity assisting the college with maintenance tasks at the campus.

Association of Australia Convention Bureaux Chief Executive Mike Cannon explains "AACB and its stakeholders are focused on marketing, knowing that a core element is continued education opportunities for bureaux staff. We are delighted that this objective will be enhanced by the mighty destination of Uluru. The event will, in addition, assist in the development of regional Australia as a key destination for business events."

NT Convention Bureau (NTCB) Director Scott Lovett adds "we're looking forward to welcoming our industry colleagues to the AACB Staff Conference at the Uluru MeetingPlace.

"It's our chance to showcase our iconic destination and the world-renown experiences that Central Australia has to offer."

Delegates will also get the opportunity to meet some of the Indigenous trainees currently working across the property. The trainees receive accredited training in hospitality and tourism through the National Indigenous Training Academy, the result of a $4.9 million partnership between the Australian

Government and the Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC), owner the Voyages Ayers Rock Resort. The innovative program is set to create 350 new jobs for Indigenous Australians at Ayers Rock Resort and in Australia's tourism and hospitality industry.

Graduates of the Academy are guaranteed a job at Ayers Rock Resort or another ILC business property or at one of the many hotels in the Accor hotel network across Australia if they choose. There are currently over 130 Indigenous staff employed by the corporation, including 75 trainees. The Resort aims to have 50% of the workforce recognised as Indigenous Australians by 2018.

For more information go to www.aacb.org.au

3rd June 2009 - MEETINGS INDUSTRY: SURVIVING THE ECONOMIC CRISIS