As we step into 2025, the Business Events industry is navigating an era of transformation. With shifting societal values, technological advancements, and a growing focus on the planet, three key trends are emerging as game changers: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Sustainability, and the need to embrace a sense of place.
The Cairns Convention Centre is a venue that epitomises innovation and environmental consciousness, so we thought we would share some thoughts on these key topics.
1. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): Building Inclusive Events
The demand for inclusivity has grown beyond buzzwords, becoming a crucial element in event planning. Delegates expect events to reflect diverse perspectives and provide equitable opportunities for all participants.
Action Points for Organisers:
- Diverse Representation: Proactively invite speakers and panellists from varied backgrounds and geographical locations. Partner with local communities to integrate cultural elements, enriching the sessions for all attendees.
- Embed Accessibility: Ensure venues and event materials cater to diverse needs. For instance, the Cairns Convention Centre’s use of wheelchair-accessible facilities, Braille signage, and Changing Places Facility can support inclusivity.
Diverse panel speakers at the Viruses of Microbes 2024 Conference
2. Sustainability: Leading with Responsibility
Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. As climate change awareness grows, organisers are prioritising environmentally responsible practices to minimise their events’ ecological footprints. Being close to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, further highlights the importance of these efforts.
Action Points for Organisers:
- Carbon Removal Programs: Take inspiration from Reforest, which helps planners host eco-friendly events through their Carbon Removal and Nature Repair program. In partnership with Business Events Cairns and the Cairns Convention Centre, Reforest supports genuine local ecosystem restoration, including the native habitat for the Tree Kangaroo in the Mabi Rainforest. Consider offering similar programs to engage attendees in sustainability efforts.
- Eco-Conscious Planning: Choose venues that prioritise sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient infrastructure, waste reduction systems, and rainwater harvesting. Encourage attendees to adopt eco-friendly behaviours, especially when it comes to travel options. For instance, Cairns is a walkable and compact Conference precinct, making it easy for delegates to walk between the Centre, hotels, restaurants, and various attractions.
3. Embracing a Sense of Place and Connection to Nature:
A growing trend in the event industry is the focus on fostering a sense of place and a connection to nature for delegates. By integrating natural elements with local cuisine and culture, organisers can enhance the physical and mental well-being of attendees while creating unique and memorable experiences.
Action Points for Organisers:
- Design with Nature in Mind: Incorporate architectural features that connect delegates to the surrounding environment. The Cairns Convention Centre exemplifies this with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that invite natural light and views of the lush landscape. The use of reclaimed timber by the local Indigenous community from Weipa and Aurukun, Chillagoe Marble stone from North Queensland quarries, and Australian-made Ontera carpets evoke the seagrass and turtle feeding grounds of Cairns, grounding the venue in its natural surroundings.
- Make the Most of Arts and Culture: Making the most of all a destination and venue has to offer, particularly alongside local history and culture can have a big impact on a conference’s meaningful impact. Here in Cairns for example, delegates can explore an extensive collection of first nations art pieces throughout the Centre, including recent additions that are part of our Reflect Reconciliation Journey titled ‘Reef Connections’ by Elverina Johnson.
- Offer Local Culinary Experiences: Enhance the delegate experience with menus that showcase local flavours. The Cairns Convention Centre provides a gastronomic journey of Tropical North Queensland, offering dishes like juicy tiger prawns, tropical fruits, and gourmet cheeses from the Atherton Tablelands. These elements allow delegates to immerse themselves in the region’s culture through its cuisine. Discover our menu and a taste of Tropical North Queensland.
Cairns: A Case Study in Excellence
Nestled between two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Rainforest – Cairns offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cutting-edge facilities. Our convention centre exemplifies the integration of these trends. From eco-friendly designs to initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, the Centre ensures that every event is impactful, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
A Call to Action
As the Business Events industry evolves, embracing ED&I, Sustainability, and personal connections to the environment is imperative. By prioritising inclusivity, reducing environmental impact, and leveraging the local environment and offering, organisers can craft events that resonate deeply with their audiences. We invite you to join us in shaping a future where every gathering is a force for good.
