See how Centrepiece delivered a seamless, multi-venue Associations Forum National Conference with expert support, flexible spaces and partners.

Associations Forum National Conference (AFNC) is the biggest event on the calendar for Australia’s associations industry. The two-day event needed a venue for its 19th iteration that would create a fresh, captivating and rewarding experience, bringing together 570 CEOs, board members, senior staff and emerging leaders across the Australian and global associations industry. 

Centrepiece curated an experience that would support education, professional development and networking; objectives at the core of the experience at AFNC.  

By utilising strategic partnerships with MCG and Pullman Melbourne on the Park and leveraging dedicated teams from world-class rigging, AV and catering companies, with support from staff and precinct partners, Centrepiece delivered an event experience that raised the bar. 

Purpose of place and partnership

There is no shortage of diverse spaces at Centrepiece, and AFNC took full advantage of this opportunity. The event spanned the pre-function area, Grand Hall, auditorium, studios and meeting rooms and spaces in the adjoining Tennis HQ for networking sessions, educational seminars, plenaries and breakout sessions.  

Centrepiece’s spaces aren’t limited to the walls of the venue itself. Strategic partnerships with MCG and Pullman Melbourne on the Park provided exciting environments for attendees, stretching the event across Melbourne’s iconic sports precinct. Centrepiece fostered an experience that went beyond the core objectives, creating a cultural experience that enriched guests. 

A comprehensive and diverse run sheet of activities required unique technical requirements and setups. Centrepiece’s preferred partnerships with event production titan, Encore Event Technologies and leading experts in Australia’s rigging industry, Showtech Australia, offered a state-of-the-art technical experience to take the event to the next level. An otherwise tedious and complicated planning and execution process, event organisers need only to show up to their event with peace of mind that it is all taken care of. And they did: 

“They knew exactly what we wanted and there were no hiccups on the day. We have had other providers when it doesn’t always work at such a large event, especially when we have so many different rooms, requirements and speakers. It was just seamless – really  incredible.”

Fatima Sunderji, General Manager of Associations Forum

You’re in good company

The venue’s capabilities, enduring partnerships and strong relationships were just one factor that contributed to the event’s immense success. The continual support, utmost dedication and expertise of the Centrepiece team were critical.  

“The team at Centrepiece is just fabulous. They understand conferencing so well. They were able to help when we weren’t sure about room and breakout sizes and were excellent at giving advice and different ideas that would work well for us,” said Fatima. 

This event was carefully crafted to produce a world-class, bespoke experience that left guests talking long after it finished. The event encapsulated the fusion of services and expertise that can be enjoyed at Centrepiece. 

“One of our staff members, who’s been with us for close to 20 years, said that this was the best conference that she’s ever been to. Everyone was uplifted. Our board members too, they couldn’t speak higher of Centrepiece,” said Fatima. 

Connect with our team to explore how Centrepiece can help bring your next event to life.