MCEC hosts Banksia National Awards celebrating sustainable solutions

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has this week hosted the Banksia National Sustainability Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to sustainability across Australia.

Banksia collaborates with government, business, and community to create awards, events, and programs that promote sustainable solutions.

Textile recycler BlockTexx secured the top Banksia Award recognised for its development and implementation of a world-first method to recover plastic flakes and cellulose for reuse from blended polyester/cotton garments.

The annual Banksia National Sustainability Awards have been running since 1989, and celebrate “innovative, impactful solutions to the sustainability challenges of our times.”

Aligning with the theme of the evening, MCEC’s talented Chefs teamed up with Skyfarm, an urban farm on the venue’s Siddeley St Carpark rooftop, to design a vibrant gala dinner menu showcasing local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients. 

Executive Sous Chef of Culinary Development, Karl Edmonds noted “MCEC is committed to sustainable and responsible practices, and this philosophy extends to our menus.

“The Banksia Awards gala dinner menu featured dishes that not only taste great, but are also great for the environment. We utilised fennel seeds, celery green chilli and rainbow silverbeet hand-picked from Skyfarm and delivered on foot to our kitchens. The menu also featured fantastic local suppliers that share our commitments to sustainability.”

Leftover produce from the evening was donated to community partner OzHarvest, to redistribute to those in need.

This year marked the fourth consecutive year that MCEC has partnered with Banksia, showcasing their shared commitment to environmental and social sustainability.

Sustainability and Impact Manager, Kristen Gillespie advised “we’re proud to partner with Banksia to host the National Sustainability Awards every year, inspiring others to make a difference and create a better future for us all. As a globally leading sustainable destination, Melbourne provides the perfect backdrop for this impactful event.”

Banksia Foundation Chief Executive, Graz van Egmond added “our collaboration with MCEC has elevated the Banksia National Sustainability Awards to new heights. Their sustainable practices and passion for fostering change complement our mission, ensuring that every aspect of this event inspires action and celebrates excellence in sustainability."

MCEC is the first convention centre in the world to be awarded 6-star green star rating and one of only five convention centres worldwide to achieve EarthCheck Platinum Certification. MCEC continues to pave the way for a more sustainable future, demonstrating that responsible practices can coexist with exceptional service and culinary innovation.

More information on MCEC 

More information on Banksia Foundation 

Image. Winners 2025 Banksia Awards. Credit: MCEC