Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach has appointed Jean Philippe Lovotti as its new general manager.
Lovotti brings over 25 years of international experience in the luxury hospitality sector, having held leadership roles across Europe, South-east Asia, and the Pacific.
Sands China and the Guangdong-Macau Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology Industrial Park (GMTCM) have signed an agreement to jointly promote the “Big Health” tourism industry in Macao and Hengqin.
The collaboration aims to leverage Macao’s tourism infrastructure and Hengqin’s TCM expertise to create new opportunities in the sector.
The partnership will focus on utilising their respective resources to help health-related businesses in both regions expand internationally and attract investment.
Potential joint projects include hosting Big Health business events in Macau, aligning with the city’s economic diversification strategy, and introducing new health tourism facilities within Sands China’s properties and the GMTCM Park.
Sands China’s CEO Grant Chum emphasised the potential of the global health tourism market and the goal of connecting their resorts with the Big Health sector through events and new tourism products.
Meanwhile, GMTCM’s chairman Wu Song highlighted the significance of this collaboration for cross-sector integration and its contribution to Macau’s economic diversification and Hengqin’s development as a TCM hub.
Established in 2011 as a key Guangdong-Macau cooperation project in Hengqin, the 500,000m2 GMTCM Park has attracted eight billion RMB (US$1.1 billion) in investment. It now houses 235 enterprises, including 89 from Macao, across various health-related sectors, and offers advanced facilities for research, development, and manufacturing meeting mainland China’s GMP standards.
The International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, has announced a A$2.1 million (US$1.3 million) investment in audiovisual, LED screen and lighting inventory.
ICC Sydney’s director of audiovisual services, Brian Nash, said: “Innovation is central to our approach to event delivery at ICC Sydney. We have more than doubled our LED screen inventory with an additional 154m2 of Vuepix Infiled AR Series LED – a world class system known for its ultra bright output and fine pixel pitch of 2.9mm.
“Combined with significant investments across lighting, vision processing, cameras, and audio, we’ve expanded our in-house capabilities allowing us to continue to deliver seamless, high quality production outcomes for every event.”
The venue’s Pyrmont Theatre will feature a new permanently installed 12×4 metres LED screen on offer for the cost of the previous projection solution from mid-June 2025. Additional LED wings can supplement the main screen, expanding to a seamless stretch of 14 metres of LED across the width of the stage, visually enhancing the stage and creating a theatrical aesthetic for discreet stage entry and exit for speakers or performers.
The venue’s lighting upgrade further strengthens its production capabilities with a significant expansion of its intelligent LED lighting inventory, providing event organisers with greater creative flexibility and technical efficiency. The enhanced stock features high output, energy efficient fixtures with integrated movement and effects, ideal for delivering dynamic lighting designs across conferences, gala dinners and live entertainment performances.
These enhancements support visually impactful experiences and align with ICC Sydney’s commitment to sustainable operations by reducing power consumption and extending fixture lifespan.
Qantas, Sydney Airport and Ampol, supported by Qantas’ SAF Coalition partners, have marked the largest ever commercial importation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into Australia, with nearly two million litres of unblended SAF arriving last week.
The fuel was imported by Ampol from Malaysia to its Kurnell facility in early May and is currently being blended with conventional aviation fuel before testing and certification so that it can be distributed into the Sydney airport supply chain. It will then be used on flights departing from Sydney Airport over the next few weeks.
Blended at a ratio of approximately 18 per cent, the fuel can power the equivalent of 900 flights from Sydney to Auckland on Qantas and Jetstar’s 737 aircraft, reducing the resulting carbon emissions from those flights by a total estimated 3,400 tonnes. This is roughly equivalent to the annual emissions generated by 800 cars.
In 2023, Qantas established the SAF Coalition which consists of 15 leading Australian and global companies, all supporting the use of SAF at scale to help reduce their air travel and freight emissions, further demonstrating the demand for SAF that exists across industries
Once established, domestic SAF production has the potential to contribute approximately A$13 billion (US$8.3 billion) in GDP annually by 2040, while supporting nearly 13,000 jobs in the feedstock supply chain and creating 5,000 new jobs to construct and run the facilities.
In line with its Net Zero by 2050 ambition, Qantas is targeting 10 per cent of its fuel use to come from SAF by 2030 and approximately 60 per cent by 2050.
Qantas currently uplifts SAF from London Heathrow and is exploring opportunities at other international locations. Through its A$400 million climate fund, Qantas is also backing several other SAF-focused initiatives, including planned biofuel facilities in Queensland and New Zealand, and a recently announced investment in a climate-focused VC fund.
Sydney Airport has an ambition for 50 percent of the fuel uplift at the airport by 2050 to be SAF.
The importation follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Qantas and Sydney Airport to work together to further facilitate the development of a domestic SAF industry in Australia.
The first Asia Pacific Corporate Annual Conference (APCAC) was held last week in Shenzhen, China, providing a B2B platform for Chinese event buyers to access comprehensive products and services required for annual meetings and for industry professionals to discuss current trends.
The two-day event, created by Shenzhen-based Xinjia Culture Co, a subsidiary of TTG Asia Media, aimed to promote a healthy development of annual meetings among China’s companies.
It was attended by more than 200 corporate buyers from across China, and showcased destinations, hotels, venue operators and other event suppliers from southern Chinese cities and the Greater Bay Area.
The conference featured topics such as ESG considerations in RFPs, which was presented by Cathy Yun, founder of Sourcing China, and various panel discussions on issues impacting Chinese annual meetings.
Jian Zheng, deputy district mayor of Yantian District, Shenzhen, who opened the the event on May 15, said APCAC had chosen a high quality location for its debut event.
He noted that Yantian District is an “ecological city embraced by mountains and sea, a vibrant city of cultural tourism innovation, and a shining pearl of the Greater Bay Area”.
He also emphasised Yantian District’s accessibility, as it is the only city in China that is connected to Hong Kong by both land and water.
Yantian District has a thriving domestic tourism industry. It welcomed more than 20 million tourists in 2024 and recorded an excess of RMB 20 million (US) in tourism revenue.
This year, for the long Labour Day holidays, Yantian District, the destination received more than 900,000 tourists, an increase of 80 per cent year-on-year.
Jian is eager to extend an invitation to the world, for all leisure and business visitors to come and experience the beauty of Yantian District.
In his speech in Mandarin, Jian also shared that several developments have taken place across Yantian District – a duty-free shopping paradise has been created on Zhongying Street; MGM Shenzhen has opened on the Xiaomeisha beachfront; Overseas Chinese Town (OCT) East is being upgraded to create a world-class mountain and sea ecological tourism destination; and Shatoujiao Port is being transformed into a cultural and commercial complex.
Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), has taken over the role as board chair of BestCities Global Alliance from Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) Edward Koh.
As incoming board chair, Swanson is committed to solidifying BestCities’ position as the world’s premier alliance of convention bureaux. Her focus will be to empower BestCities’ partner destinations to deliver positive, sustainable impacts within their communities and expand their collective knowledge, while minimising the meetings industry’s global footprint.
Swanson has over 25 years of experience in tourism and business events. During her 14-year tenure at MCB, she led the organisation to prominence in the global business events sector. Through her role with the Visit Victoria leadership team, she has driven stronger strategic alignment with Melbourne’s tourism bureau, contributing to the city’s economic growth.
In 2023, Swanson was appointed as director to the board of the Australian Business Events Association. She is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and has 13 years of experience in a number of international hotel chains.
Outgoing chair Koh – who is STB’s executive director, conventions, meetings & incentive travel – oversaw several key achievements, including onboarding Washington, DC as a new partner destination in 2024; launching the new Association Impact Masterclass in cooperation with ICCA; growing the Madrid Challenge community from 24 meeting planners to 59; and increasing the prominence of the BestCities Global Forum, which culminated in the 2025 event in Dublin, Ireland that welcomed a record 32 association clients.
Emirates has unveiled 18 new Business Class dishes meticulously designed to be paired with exclusive Moët & Chandon Champagnes on most medium- to long-haul flights.
This marks the airline’s first curated champagne and cuisine pairing experience in the air, and was developed over the course of a year by Michelin-star chef Jean Michel Bardet from Moët & Chandon and Emirates’ vice president of culinary design, Doxis Bekris.
New pairings include starters like poached scallops with green melon and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016, and vegan options such as silken tofu with asparagus and Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. Main courses feature roasted duck with spiced couscous and Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial, roasted turkey with mashed potato and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016, and seared Chilean Seabass with artichoke puree and Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. A vegan main course of braised lentils with coconut and Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial is also offered.
Customers can identify these paired dishes on the onboard menu with a crown icon and can check their specific flight menu in advance.
Emirates has a 33-year partnership with Moët Hennessy and is the world’s largest airline purchaser of champagne. Their Business and First Class offerings include exclusive vintages, while champagne is also available in other cabins.
Brought to you by Brisbane Economic Development Agency
In March 2024 Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), in partnership with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland, successfully secured the Nu Skin China incentive trip, which has previously been held in destinations such as Hawaii, Toronto, and Bali.
The event was supported by Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program, with Brisbane’s successful bid a reflection of the city’s strategic commitment to attracting high-value business events.
From the moment delegates arrived, Brisbane rolled out the red carpet – offering personalised airport activations, exclusive experiences at renowned attractions, and a prestigious Brisbane City Hall reception. The city’s seamless blend of business and leisure made it an ideal choice for Nu Skin China’s top achievers.
Why Brisbane?
As Australia’s fastest-growing major capital city, Brisbane delivers an unbeatable incentive offering. With a thriving cultural scene, stunning outdoor lifestyle, and close proximity to iconic Australian experiences, it’s no surprise the city has been recognised by TIME Magazine, Frommer’s, and The New York Times as one of the world’s must-visit destinations.
Christine Kong, vice president of executive partnership at Nu Skin China, highlighted the significance of selecting Brisbane: “We always aim to create unforgettable experiences for our delegates, inspiring them to achieve even more. Brisbane’s beautiful weather, walkability, and connectivity, along with its vibrant city precincts, made it the perfect choice.”
Delegates enjoyed a blend of luxury urban experiences and breathtaking natural escapes, staying at five premium hotels: Sofitel Brisbane Central, Hilton Brisbane, Hyatt Regency Brisbane, Brisbane Marriott Hotel, and The Westin Brisbane – all conveniently located within walking distance of the city centre.
VIP welcome and First Nations culture
Nu Skin China delegates received a personalised welcome the moment they arrived in Brisbane. Branded signage and a dedicated welcome desk at the airport set the stage for their experience, while a special Australian mascot, a kookaburra, delighted guests upon arrival.
Adding a meaningful cultural touch, indigenous elders led a heartfelt Welcome to Country, offering delegates a unique insight into Brisbane’s rich First Nations heritage.
Unparalleled experiences
The delegates enjoyed an exclusive takeover of Tangalooma Island Resort, where the experience was elevated with custom branding, scenic helicopter flights over Moreton Island, and the rare opportunity to hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset.
Throughout their stay, they explored Brisbane’s thriving culinary scene, dining at top restaurants and discovering the city’s world-class shopping precincts.
The itinerary also featured unforgettable adventures, from scaling the Story Bridge for breathtaking views to indulging in premium wine tastings at Sirromet Winery and getting up close with native wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Exclusive gala dinner at Brisbane City Hall
The programme concluded with an elegant Gala Dinner at the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall, attended by local government representatives—an unforgettable finale to a remarkable five-day event.
Making an impact
Nu Skin China’s visit contributed an estimated AUD$7.5 million to the local economy, reinforcing Brisbane’s status as a sought-after incentive destination. As China’s travel market continues its strong recovery, Brisbane is primed to attract more high-yield international business events.
With growing aviation access, including increased direct flights from China Eastern and China Southern Airlines, Brisbane’s global connectivity continues to strengthen. Kong also praised the city’s accessibility: “Brisbane is incredibly easy to reach from mainland China, with minimal time difference. Our delegates could immediately start enjoying the sun, beaches, and fantastic lifestyle.”
Partnering for success
The seamless execution of this large-scale event was made possible through BEDA’s hands-on support. Kiro Yin, key account director at Mandarin OZ International Travel Services, commended BEDA’s role: “BEDA supported Nu Skin every step of the way – from site visits and bid development to planning and activations. Their expertise and collaboration ensured this was an exceptional experience for all.”
Start planning your next incentive in Brisbane
Discover why global businesses are choosing Brisbane for their incentive programmes. Contact the Business Events Team at Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) at businessevents@brisbane-eda.com.au or visit BEDA to start planning your next world-class event in Brisbane.
Brought to you by Tourism New Zealand Business Events
Tourism New Zealand global manager business events Penelope Ryan said: “When you add this conference infrastructure to New Zealand’s innovation and experiential content possibilities, the opportunities for unique perspectives from its Māori culture, the growing schedule of direct flights, and, of course, the country’s bucket-list destination appeal, it really makes New Zealand an attractive proposition.”
A positive pipeline for Auckland
When it opens in February 2026, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will cement a new chapter for New Zealand, putting it firmly in the bracket of premier destinations for conferences of 500 to 4,000 persons.
The largest of the country’s three new convention centres will boast 32,500m² of multi-purpose events space in the heart of central Auckland, with a vast choice of hotel rooms, dining options, shopping, and entertainment within walking distance.
NZICC general manager Prue Daly said the venue is already proving popular with conference decisionmakers, adding: “The NZICC currently has 20 international events confirmed and more than 200 proposals pending in the pipeline until 2033.”
Nine publicly announced conferences to date include the International Coral Reef Symposium (2,500 people), the International Confederation of Principals Convention (1,600 people), and the International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit (1,500 people) in 2026.
Wellington drives higher than expected attendance
Capital city Wellington has 22 international conferences booked for 2025. Business Events Wellington manager Irette Ferreira said: “Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre is nearly two years old and going from strength to strength.”
Earlier this year, the venue hosted the 8th World Conference for the International Council for Traditions of Music and Dance, which attracted more than 500 delegates from 85 countries.
Local Arrangements Chair, Brian Diettrich, associate professor in Ethnomusicology at the New Zealand School of Music at Victoria University of Wellington, said the appeal of Wellington and New Zealand drove higher than expected turnout: “Coming here was much further away for most people. So, it seemingly would be more challenging, but it actually worked very, very easily. Everyone was very excited to be in Wellington; the venue was beautiful, everyone loved being able to walk around the city, and people were raving about the food.
“What we did programme-wise with the indigenous focus, and with all the amazing performing groups that came, it really re-energised the conference in interesting ways.”
Notable upcoming conferences at Tākina Wellington Convention Centre include the International Conference on Urban Health 2025, and the International Conference on Digital Preservation.
Exceeding expectations in Christchurch
Meanwhile in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has exceeded expectations since opening in May 2022. It attracted an estimated 80,200 guests attending 217 events over the year to November 2024. Over half of the delegates surveyed had not previously visited New Zealand and 95 per cent planned to return to the region for a holiday in the next five years. Respondents commented on Christchurch’s friendly locals, highly walkable inner city, and attractive natural environment.
Te Pae Christchurch general manager Ross Steele said: “It’s pleasing almost all (99 per cent) said they would recommend Christchurch to friends, family and colleagues as a place to visit.”
A strong calendar of events for Te Pae Christchurch includes the 8th international Adaptation Futures Conference this October, the International Society of Arboriculture and the International Cool Climate Wine Symposium.
Find out more about strategic funding and support to bring your conference to New Zealand. Visit Tourism New Zealand Business Events now.
Minor Hotels has made two senior leadership appointments for its Anantara resorts in Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle.
Arnaud Béril, general manager of Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, will now also oversee Anantara Chiang Mai Resort as cluster general manager of both resorts. Jean-Marc Pougnet, resort manager at Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, will take on the role of general manager at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort.
Béril, who returned to Anantara Chiang Mai after holding various operational roles across Minor Hotels’ properties in Thailand, has led various initiatives to enhance the resort experience, including the introduction of Canopy, A Tree Top Dining Experience, and the launch of Samsarn restaurant and the Mekong Explorer Tents.
Pougnet first joined Anantara Golden Triangle in 2018 as F&B manager, before moving to Avani+ Khao Lak Resort in 2021. He brings extensive experience in food and beverage and operational roles across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
