The city that has grown into a destination full of surprises, natural wonders and world-class conference facilities, had everybody talking at the Newcastle showcase event, attended by more than 100 business event specialists.

A modern Australian city framed by pristine beaches and natural bushland, it is a portal to Hunter Valley Wine Country, the gourmet epicentre of award-winning wines and produce and the crystal blue waters of Port Stephens.

The evening event saw a good mix of corporate attendees and association executives, and a great many local Newcastle operators, with venue operators a clear majority. Convention manager at the Newcastle Visitor & Convention Bureau, Ruth Appleby, said she was overwhelmed by the level of interest from the Sydney buyers.

“Many of the registrants are representatives of companies who have indicated to us that they have either just opened an office in Newcastle or are about to open an office here. This is a very encouraging sign for the general health of the local economy,” she said.
The Sydney Showcase was the first in a series of Newcastle showcases. The group was holding another event in Melbourne in June.

“Whilst Sydney has long been the source of a significant part of the conference and meetings business in this area, since the improvement in our accessibility though the increased services in/out of Newcastle Airport, we have noticed an increasing demand from Victoria and SE Queensland’ said Ms Appleby.

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