The industry came out in force last night for the inaugural Australian Business Events Awards at ICC Sydney to celebrate the impact and outstanding achievements of the sector.

Peter King, Chair Australian Business Events Association said the work of the industry is making a huge impact on community, business and the economy. He said the award winners reflect the enormous breadth and depth of the businesses and contributions of this industry.

In addition to the award winners, the inaugural ABEA Board was recognised for their work and dedication that led to the unification of industry associations to form ABEA. Special thanks were given to Janet Hamilton, Julia Swanson, Nigel Keen, Matt Pearce, Nicole Walker, Michael Matthews, and Dr. Leo Jago.

Geoff Donaghy, who stepped down as CEO of ICC Sydney recently, was honoured with the prestigious ABEA Lifetime Achievement Award for his transformative leadership and enduring contributions to the industry.

The 2024 Australian Business Events Association Award winners are:

Best Events

• Best Consumer Show: Adelaide Convention Centre – Cellar Door Fest 2024
• Best Trade Show: Hannover Fairs Australia – AFAC24 powered by INTERSCHUTZ
• Best Conference: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre – 12th International AIDS Society Conference on HIV Science (IAS 2023)
• Best Incentive Event: Arinex – Paramount Pools’ “Passport to Paradise” (for client JNR Incorporated)

Innovation & Creativity

• Best Stand, Show Feature or Event Build: Designteam – BAE Systems Land Forces 2024
• Best New Product or Service: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – The Homestead
• Best Technology Innovation: Jomablue – Event Check-in & Smart Badge

Sustainability Awards

• Climate & Environment Initiative: Adelaide Convention Centre – Minimising Waste to Landfill
• Social & Cultural Initiative: ICC Sydney – RESPECT

Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign

• Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre – It Takes a Team – Join Ours Campaign
• RX Global – All Energy Australia

Team & Industry Leadership

• Organiser or PCO Team of the Year: Arinex
• Venue Team of the Year: ICC Sydney
• Service/Supplier Team of the Year: Half Eaten Donut and Zadro
• Future Leader’s Award: Elle Reinehr

Special Recognitions

• Contribution to Industry Award: Nigel Keen
• Venue of the Year: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
• Best Event in 2024: Hannover Fairs Australia – AFAC24 powered by INTERSCHUTZ
• Best Product or Initiative in 2024: Adelaide Convention Centre – Minimising Waste to Landfill
• Best Team in 2024: Arinex