Sydney picked to host global events meeting

By Mark Armsden SYDNEY The International Special Events Society (ISES) has picked Sydney as the venue for its global Conference for Professional Development (CPD) from August 2-5. This is the first time in the society's 15-year history the conference has been held outside the US. It will be held at Sydney's Sheraton on the Park. With the downturn in international visitor numbers, the conference will spotlight Sydney as a major international destination following on from the success of the 2000 Olympics. On the highly competitive global scene, Australia is ranked fourth worldwide as a convention destination. Conference chairwoman Ms Romaine Pereira said with more than 350 delegates expected from the Asia Pacific the US, Europe and South America and Asia Pacific the conference was of great importance. "Winning the rights to host the CPD in Sydney, will help promote Australia and Australian special events professionals on an international stage and boost the industry sector," she said. "As well as showcasing Sydney and Australia as a safe, cost-effective destination for the special events industry, it also provides professional development, education and training for event management professionals," Ms Pereira said Australian-based international president for ISES Ms Lena Malouf said: "This conference is a must for all event professionals, it will offer the perfect learning tools."