On 17 - 18 April, members of GEMS operations team worked alongside Stormwater NSW to deliver a successful franc.sydney 2024. The Conference was delivered with the support and partnership of Cooks River Alliance, Georges Riverkeeper, Parramatta River Catchment Group, The University of NSW, Water Research Centre, The Sydney Institute of Marine Science and CSIRO.

In its 3^rd year, franc.sydney remained true to its purpose of challenging the application of conventional urban storm water management practices to our modern cities and new developments. It is building a community of individuals who are, connected to urban storm water and are passionate about changing the way it is managed. The program comprised

pre-conference workshops, keynotes, expert panels and concurrent sessions with a two-day trade exhibition, concluding with a Showcase of Excellence Site Tour.

GEMS collaborated with CommBank Stadium to host a memorable conference. As a unique addition to this year's franc.fest social function, a large inflatable outdoor screen was placed on the field of play, transforming the arena into a movie theatre. A great night was had by the delegates and we thank CommBank Stadium for trusting our vision and working tirelessly to create an impressive event experience.

Our team thrives on the opportunity to work with clients that put their trust in us and collaborating with venues and suppliers to create something new or that pushes the boundaries of what has been done in the past. This event certainly gave us those liberties and we look forward to workshopping the possibilities as we look toward 2025.

AYA Global Congress

Exceeding expectations with an overwhelming

number of abstract submissions

GEMS are excited to announce that we will be working in partnership with Canteen Australia to deliver the 6th Global Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Congress taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Australia from the 3 – 6 December 2024. This highly regarded International Congress brings together leading international experts, to share research and care practices, and connect a worldwide network that is focused on improving cancer care for young people navigating cancer. We feel extremely privileged to play an important role in bringing this event to life in 2024.

The 2024 edition, ‘Ethics, Equity, and Emerging Ideas’ will focus on addressing progress and challenges in equitable access, ethical considerations in cancer treatment and practices, innovation, and implementation across the AYA cancer care continuum.

With the conference planning well underway, we have recently closed the online Call for Abstracts portal and have been absolutely overwhelmed by the engagement and response, with over 275 abstracts submitted for consideration in the final Congress Program.

While the Congress Program Committee have their work cut out for them, with such a broad range of submissions covering multiple streams and topics, it can be assured that this program will not be lacking in any way; rather, providing valuable knowledge, learnings and insight to over 400 medical professionals, AYA consumers and AYA focused patient advocates.

Our operations team are very excited for December 2024 to roll around!

AYA Congress

GEMS Event Management Australia is thrilled to announce its membership in the newly formed Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), a vibrant community dedicated to elevating the standards and impact of business events throughout Australia. With a focus on promoting collaboration, innovation, and excellence, the ABEA seeks to unite stakeholders across the events industry to drive positive change and growth.

At the heart of ABEA's mission is a commitment to advancing the business events sector by fostering a supportive and dynamic environment for professionals and businesses.

Through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities, the association aims to empower its members to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. By joining forces with ABEA, GEMS Event Management Australia aligns itself with this vision, recognising the importance of collective action in shaping the future of the industry.

As a member of ABEA, GEMS looks forward to actively engaging with fellow industry peers, sharing insights, and contributing to initiatives that promote sustainability, diversity, and innovation in business events. 

New Event Venue

The Star Brisbane

Positioned at the heart of the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct, The Star Brisbane will deliver four future world-class hotels, a myriad of new restaurants, bars and entertainment experiences, luxury retail, and a thrilling new era in events to Brisbane’s CBD. Not to mention The Star Brisbane’s striking showpiece Sky Deck, a 250m rooftop runway of restaurants and bars floating 100m above the Brisbane River and the resort’s Leisure Deck, a 12,000sqm open-air oasis which delivers two football fields of public space.

From a selection of Brisbane’s grandest hotels to delectable dining, spectacular sky-high views and unique experiences for locals and tourists alike, The Star Brisbane promises to celebrate the best of our river city.

In December, two of GEMS senior event managers will be attending the Professional Conference Organisers Association Conference to be held at The Star Brisbane. The team are very excited to explore all this exciting new venue has to offer for association and business events. We will be sure to keep you posted on their visit and give you more insight into the available function spaces and experiences.

The Star Brisbane and broader Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct is set to commence a staged opening from August 2024.

To learn more about The Star Brisbane please see link: The Star Brisbane

ICC Sydney

Launches Disability Inclusion Action Plan

The International Convention Centre (ICC) has taken a positive step towards inclusivity by introducing its Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) on World Autism Awareness Day, 2024. This plan shows the ICC's commitment to making its facilities and events accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. By focusing on disability inclusion, the ICC sets a great example for organisations worldwide, emphasising the importance of creating spaces that welcome diversity and cater to everyone's needs.

Around one in five Australians experience disability. The ICC’s action plan helps to provide opportunities for full participation in the community, in our economy, and for all to access world-class facilities.

Working alongside various special education associations, we aim to raise awareness and provide support for individuals with diverse learning needs. Our collaboration with the ICC to deliver the 2024 SEPLA conference at their venue in July is a significant step towards our shared goal of fostering inclusive communities.

Together, we celebrate the ICC's proactive stance on disability inclusion and look forward to driving positive change through our collaborative efforts.

To learn more about the ICC Sydney’s Disability inclusion action plan please see link below:

ICC Sydney Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2023 – 2027