21 Mounts Bay Road, Perth
Ph: (08) 9338 0326
www.pcec.com.au
20 YEARS OF EXTRAORDINARY
How the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre Redefines Perth’s Event Landscape
As I try to pass through the kitchen discreetly, it is alive with hustle and bustle. There are a few events on this evening, so the chefs are busy preparing rows of perfectly identical canapes. The 20-year celebration of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) is one of them. I have snuck in for a private tour, following Andrew Mann, PCEC Director of Food and Beverage as he leads me down corridors, through large doors and kitchen spaces, into their special tasting room.
Once a simple storeroom connecting the kitchen spaces, the tasting room has been transformed into something special. Large windows overlook the kitchens, allowing a glimpse into the action, while wine-filled shelves line the dark walls and soft, ambient lighting casts a warm glow over the long central table. This is where Andrew and his team bring clients to talk and experience what it is that makes PCEC stand apart from other venues around town.
Since opening in 2004, the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre has become a place where extraordinary experiences come to life, hosting thousands of events. From international and national conventions, including CHOGM in 2011, to graduations, exhibitions and iconic charity fundraisers such as Telethon and The Magic Coat Foundation’s annual charity ball, PCEC has played a pivotal role in Perth’s event landscape. Even global superstar Ed Sheeran chose PCEC for his first Australia concert.
The venue’s long-term impact on the local community is undeniable “Decisions are made for WA and the people of WA at events here at PCEC” says Liz De Prose, Business Improvement and Marketing Manager, as she recounts the remarkable history of conferences held at PCEC.
Behind the expansive spaces and dazzling events at PCEC is a dedicated team led by newly appointed General Manager, Kendra Naidoo, who is committed to shaping the venue’s legacy of excellence and innovation. “We take pride in being the venue of choice, offering international and national clients unparalleled experiences that leave a lasting impression.” she explains, highlighting the Centre’s unwavering focus on being Perth’s premier business events destination.
“Our success lies in the dedication of the people behind the scenes,” adds Andrew. The team takes the time to understand their client’s needs, tailoring packages to suit them, whether bespoke packages hosted in the tasting room or a tailored menu for ten thousand guests. And they are not afraid to push boundaries: “We continuously challenge ourselves to innovate and improve, ensuring we deliver exceptional experiences every time.”
This commitment to innovation has driven unique initiatives, such as the design of seasonal menus featuring native ingredients and the installation of Nespresso carts, elevating the quality of coffee served to guests. The team has even introduced beehives to the roof of the building, cared for in partnership with Post Code Honey, to produce their own honey.
PCEC’s dedication to a socially conscious workplace is equally noteworthy. They have cultivated valuable partnerships with local organisations including Prepare, Produce, Provide, an Indigenous hospitality programme whose unique drink is sold at Liberty, the PCEC onsite café and bar; OzHarvest, a food rescue service; Containers for Change, a recycling initiative; and Healthy Mind Menu, which supports the mental wellbeing of hospitality workers.
After my private tour, I slip back into the 20-year celebration. With a glass of Moët in hand, I cannot help but marvel at the attention to detail that has gone into creating an unforgettable experience for the guests. Every element has been thoughtfully curated, immersing attendees in a celebration that truly reflects the essence of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
As it celebrates two decades of success redefining what a modern event space can achieve, we will watch with interest as PCEC continues to inspire and set new standards. Here’s to another extraordinary 20 years.
By Sarah Schmitt
