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8th December 2009

Michael Milburn passed away on 3rd of December 2009 following an extended illness. 

Michael spent over two decades in the restaurant, catering, venue and event management industry and was highly regarded for his innovation and involvement.

In 1990 Michael joined Epicure Catering as Executive Manager Brand & Marketing Development. He soon took the business to a pre-eminent position in the off-site catering industry.

As part of his commitment to the industry Michael served as board member of Restaurant & Catering Victoria and ensured the business’ continuing involvement in industry associations including the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB), Meetings Events Australia (MEA) and the International Special Events Society (ISES)

Michael was a driver of innovation in the catering industry especially in promoting the use of seasonal and as far as possible, locally grown produce and then ensuring that food wastage could be minimised by entering into an agreement with Second Bite to assist those in our community who are less well off than ourselves.

The Green table imitative was launched in Australia in October 2008 by Restaurant & Catering Australia.  In conjunction with the City of Melbourne and Restaurant & Catering Victoria, Epicure at the Melbourne Town Hall was granted accreditation as a certified Green Table Australia Business.

Michael's contribution to ISES

Michael has been an ISES member since 1997 and was a foundation member of the Melbourne chapter; he served as Chapter President and later Chair of the Australasian Affiliate

In 2008 Michael was awarded the inaugural ISES Melbourne chapter Life Achievement Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Event Industry.

Michael is a champion for all things event related and inspires and encourages all those who have had the pleasure of working with him.

Anybody who had anything to do with the events and catering industry in Victoria over the last 20 years knows of Michael.  He was a highly respected leader with a passion for the industry; a role model and mentor who brought much pride not only to those of us who were close to him but to our industry worldwide.

Tributes from industry collegues

Michael was an uncompromising professional with a great sense of humanity. I know how much he treasured this incredible ISES family bond that ties us together.  There are four words that truly depict Michael and those which I admire most; Dedication, Leadership, Graciousness and Fun. 

I have been privileged to be his friend and will miss him dearly.

Romaine Pereira - Chair - ISES Australasian Affiliate

If I look back at the last 10 years of the Events Industry in Melbourne , then there is one name that has been instrumental in helping get it to where it is today.

That person was Michael Milburn.

Back then there was no industry association to represent us, as we all just went along with our business the best way we knew how.

Yes the formation of ISES was important, but what was critical was the people behind it. Michael was there at the start and only recently had to step down due to his health.

Michael was the reason why I become actively involved and his thoughts were straight forward.

The only was the industry can develop was through members making it happen and creating momentum for all the others.

He was absolutely right and the rest is history.

Michael was always the no fuss, no frills person who preferred to stay behind the scenes. But he was always supportive and made sure that everything that was being done was for the benefit of the industry.

I certainly learnt a lot from Michael and will always be indebted to him. As well as a work colleague, he also became my friend and a friend to many others.

I know wherever he is now; his ongoing presence will be felt by all as we continue to conduct our business by the standards he set.

Thanks Michael.

 Peter Jones - President, ISES Melbourne Chapter 2005 - 2007

What a wonderful journey we shared together with ISES– my mentor, my confidante, my support for all that was ISES and beyond, but sadly time was not on our side and Michael’s life was taken from us far too early. His passion and commitment for the industry, what it stood for and its future was truly inspirational. I will miss you and your guidance and promise to ensure that your legacy of ISES will continue.

Jennifer Trethewey - President ISES Melbourne Chapter 2007 - 2009

Michael Milburn embodied the passion we all have for our industry. His enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism were widely recognised and regarded and he was always prepared to contribute his ideas and his time, particularly to new entrants. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues.

Sandra Chipchase, CEO MCVB.

Michael exemplified all that the hospitality industry stands for – unwavering concern for quality and the highest possible standard of innovative food and beverage, served with flair. He joined Ros Harvey and Epicure Catering in its formative stage in 1990, and continued to shape and guide this distinctive brand after it became part of the Spotless Group in 2001. Michael’s legacy will endure in Epicure and with his colleagues, both past and present, who have been inspired by his passion, energy and dedication to the industry.

Tim Sexton – Group General Manager Food Services, Spotless

 As Michael’s partner of 20 years I was privileged and truly blessed to have been a part of this wonderful man’s life.  Michael was as passionate about the hospitality and event industry as any one could be.  His desire for perfection regarding every last detail of every event is the legacy he leaves behind to be treasured and admired by all.  I know he will be sadly missed by everyone who ever had contact with him, none more so than myself. Sadly gone but never to be forgotten, I cherish the time we had together and the memories will live on forever. 

Martin Peacock

“Farewell Michael, your memory will never fade from our hearts”.

A few media mentions…

An appetite for change

• One of Melbourne 's biggest caterers has adopted a holistic set of "green" principles governing its food output, writes Michael Lallo – The Age Feb 26 2008

MEA VIC 2007 Meetings & Events Industry Awards Dinner