Excitement mounts in Melbourne for Rotary’s convention

Melbourne is getting ready to welcome 14,000 delegates from May 27-31, 2023. The annual convention will host speakers, breakout sessions, and more than 200 booths in the House of Friendship.

Housed at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), attendees will discover new perspectives, challenge themselves, and inspire each other. They will address causes such as protecting the environment, eradicating polio, advancing literacy, strengthening communities, and promoting peace. MCEC is the main location for all convention activities including daily breakout sessions, exhibition hall, three 16,000 seated lunches and various satellite events.

An extensive transport management plan is being put in place with shuttle buses running between 60 hotels, MCEC and Rod Laver Arena. MCEC chief executive, Natalie O’Brien, said: “The Rotary International Convention is unlike anything we’ve hosted at MCEC. It’s a major logistical operation, with team members working tirelessly to ensure a seamless experience for conference attendees.”

“Rotary plays a pivotal role in improving outcomes for our communities and we’re delighted to host their international conference at MCEC. I’m excited to see the venue come alive with passionate community leaders from around the world who are all working together to create a better future.”

World-class speakers will include:

· Leymah Gbowee, 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate and founder of Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa

· Nakeeyat Dramani Sam, a 10-year-old climate change activist and poet

· Kari Aina Eik, who has led numerous programs to meet global environmental targets and helped shape the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

· Chantal Vallée, the first woman in basketball history to be named as both head coach and general manager of a men's professional team

Breakout panels will address plastic waste, water pollution, and the value of plant-rich diets. By using the convention app, attendees will eliminate paper waste from printed programmes. Plant-based and meatless options will be in menus, and water coolers will minimise single-use plastics.

Attendees can also enjoy ticketed events organised by local clubs. They include a visit to the Melbourne Museum, a trip to an Australian rules football match, and a food packing event in Melbourne's Federation Square. Volunteers will aim to pack 100,000 meals for countries in need.

The event is expected to deliver A$91 million (US$60.5 million) to the local economy. Next year’s mega event will be in Singapore.