Conference & Meetings World Issue 102 | Page 35

Venue showcase Crowning glory CMW TRIES ON MELBOURNE’S CONFERENCING CROWN COMPLEX he purpose-built Crown Conference Centre in Melbourne’s Crown Hotel, and part of a wider Crown complex, can accommodate the full spectrum of events, from small business meetings, corporate dinner and launch events to large international exhibitions. The meeting rooms all come with clean lines and modern styling and plenty of natural light. Bookers and planners considering the Crown CC can use its Meetings Matrix online tool, complete with virtual conference room layouts, to test configurations for the desired setup. A team of experienced event managers are also on hand to assist and then execute any event to ensure every detail is covered. The Crown Conference Centre can cater for up to 840 delegates, offering direct access to Crown’s three hotels and multiple venue spaces, which include The Palladium, a pillarless space that can be configured for events ranging from gala dinners to awards celebrations. There are open workshop areasand function rooms with river views. For larger events, the dedicated exhibition floors offer a built-in registration desk, private rooms and offices for organisers, multi-media panels and two cafés. There is access to advanced technology, including wireless internet connections, data technology, web-casting and video conferencing facilities. The Organiser’s Suite features two private office spaces, a boardroom and a private bathroom with shower, and a business centre is available 24 hours a day. Crown offers easy car access and parking, and a loading dock for delivery of goods and special equipment. Crown Promenade Across the sky bridge from the CCC lies “Bookers can use Crown Conference Centre’s Meetings Matrix online tool, complete with virtual room layouts, to test configurations for the desired setup.” the 465-room Crown Promenade Melbourne. The hotel opened its doors in 2003 and offers affordable accommodation in the heart of the city’s Southbank entertainment precinct. Crown Promenade guests can access the wider Crown Melbourne complex via the sky bridge and the hotel is also close to the CBD, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and many of the city’s famous arts and sporting facilities. Crown Promenade also offers corporate travellers dedicated business facilities and meeting rooms. A A$10m (US$9.49m), transformation in 2012 by Singapore-based architect and interior designer, Michael Fiebrich, features mosaics and fine tiling throughout. Indulgence Suites include a deep soak spa bath, relaxation area, massage beds, and there is a steam room and 25m heated indoor pool. Crown Towers When the Crown Towers Melbourne, located on the Yarra River, opened in 1997 it set a new standard in Australian luxury hotels. Rising 39 floors above Southbank, the hotel houses 481 hotel rooms along with the sumptuous Crown Spa and the private Crystal Club lounge. Refurbished in 2011, Crown Towers’ cylindrical exterior profile lends itself to its name. There is an 11m atrium with gloss black granite marble and Porto Romano stone clad columns along with a distinctive custom designed chandelier. The hotel has been recognised as the ‘Best Hotel in Australia’ in numerous national and international awards. Crown Spa Melbourne’s only Forbes five-star hotel, Crown Spa, is located in the surrounds of Crown Towers and offers a quality spa experience in the midst of the city. World-class health and beauty services are offered by highly trained therapists. There are 17 treatment rooms and packages to restore energy to the mind, body and soul. The spa is a tranquil oasis and wellness retreat. Right: Melbourne’s Crown Conference Centre ISSUE 102 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 35