SOCIAL PROGRAM

We invite delegates to take part in the 2026 Congress social activities as listed below.

We encourage delegates to make their own way to the social function venues using Melbourne's tram network. Both venues are located within the free tram zone. Expressions of interest for coach transfers will be taken at the point of registering online and attendees will be contacted in April 2026 should transfers be coordinated to the venues.

WELCOME RECEPTION

Date: Sunday 3 May 2026
Time: 17:00-19:00
Venue: il Mercato Centrale
Dress Code: Smart casual
Cost: Tickets are included for full and accompanying person registrations. Additional tickets can be purchased for AU$95 inc GST

Kick off the Congress in style at the first official social event, where colleagues and friends come together to catch up, connect and celebrate. Hosted at the buzzing il Mercato Centrale, the evening promises great company, vibrant flavours and a warm welcome to the city.

CONGRESS GALA DINNER

Date: Wednesday 6 May 2026
Time: 18:30-23:00
Venue: Plaza Ballroom
Dress Code: ‘Op-Shop Couture’ or Cocktail - refer below for further information
Cost: AU$170 inc GST

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of sophistication and elegance at the Congress Gala dinner, being held at Melbourne's iconic Plaza Ballroom. This lavish and grand venue offers grandeur and ambience for you to network with old and new colleagues at this free-seating event. Don't miss this perfect occasion to unwind, connect with colleagues, and celebrate in style.

Dress code
Guests are invited to don any glamorous, sparkly, avant-garde, or unusual outfits with an extra challenge: nothing new! This means borrow, re-use, make, re-purpose or buy second-hand. This theme is a celebration of Melbourne's adventurous fashion landscape, its penchant for environmentalist causes, and its love of op-shopping (the term "op shop" was actually invented in the 1920s by a former Melbourne showgirl, Lady Millie Tallis!).

The theme is Optional - feel free to wear cocktail wear of your choosing and opt out of op-shop couture if you prefer.