Breaking News: EEAA members vote to support possible merger

Exhibition and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA) Members have unanimously supported a resolution that would allow its Board to merge with the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB) and Australian Convention Centre Group (ACCG), creating a new entity.

Nicole Walker, EEAA’s president, said it was a special milestone for the industry.

“The Board has always had its members interest at the forefront of its charter,” she said. “This move will strengthen our ability to serve our members.”

Immediately after the Special General Meeting, the EEAA Board met with leaders of the AACB and ACCG to discuss the resolution and continue to the next phase of planning.

Michael Matthews, AACB’s president, said a united front will have substantial benefits for sector advocacy, with one key voice fighting for industry growth and support.

“Directors of the AACB commend EEAA for their leadership on this important opportunity for our industry,” he said.

“In parallel, AACB is committed to establishing a well-resourced industry peak representative of the entire business events community across Australia.”

Domenic Genua, EEAA’s CEO, said that whilst there is a clear vision for the future, for the moment, it is business as usual.

“The vote today gives us certainty about our future, however our work to serve our members doesn’t stop,” he said.

“2023 will see us delivering all our services as normal, if not more. This is a vote to plan and work towards having a new super group, and until that happens, I have the clear mandate to continue to serve our members.”