GENERAL CONFERENCE AND PROGRAM QUESTIONS

Q. The conference was advertised from 9– 12 May. What's happening on 9 May?

The official conference opening and first sessions will commence on the 10 May. The 9 May is dedicated to MEA national meetings and functions that will be attended by invitation only. Those entitled to attend these functions will receive their invitations with RSVP dates directly from MEA national office.

Q. Where are all conference sessions being held?

The majority of the conference sessions are held at the Alice Springs Convention Centre. Several Category Forums, the First Timers information session and YMEA Future Leaders Forum will be held at Crowne Plaza Alice Springs.

The Alice Springs Convention Centre, with an abundance of natural light and spectacular views of the MacDonnell Ranges, is a fantastic venue for the MEA conference. The Centre boasts state of the art facilities, professional friendly service and offers delegates the opportunity to experience the true essence of the outback.

Q. Where is the Gala Dinner being held?

The Gala Dinner will be held at the Alice Springs Convention Centre, MacDonnell Room.

Q. How much will the Conference cost?

See below for all fees. Please note the great savings when you book early. Early bird prices are available until 29 February 2008. To register for the conference click here.

Early Bird Registration Member $1180
Early Bird Registration Non-Member $1590
Early Bird Registration Student (must show ID) $800
Early Bird Member Registration Group (Third and subsequent) $1150 per person

Standard Registration Member $1335
Standard Registration Non-Member $1745
Standard Registration Student (must show ID) $ 890
Standard Member Registration Group (Third and subsequent) $1300 per person
All fees are inclusive of GST

Q. What is MEA doing to promote environmentally friendly events and how can I contribute?

The MEA Conference is going green by reducing its impact on the environment as much as possible! You can choose to offset the carbon emissions not able to be avoided being produced during this conference. The offset fee has been calculated at $57 per delegate.

If you would like to purchase this service and help our industry become environmentally sustainable please do so when registering for the conference. The funds collected will be invested in renewable energy through an accredited firm and a receipt will be issued outlining your investment.

Q. What's included in my conference registration fee ?

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are included within the registration fee on Sunday 11 May and Monday 12 May. Dinners on Saturday, Sunday and Monday evenings are included. Daily conference sessions with over 35 national and international speakers. All conference fees are inclusive of GST.

Q. Am I eligible for master classes?

Conditions of Entry to Master Classes:

“Master Classes” are the place to find perspectives and resources to turn good ideas into competitive weapons. Appropriate for delivery to Business Principals/Executive Managers with responsibility for running the organisation. Maximum of 30 per session.

Q. What is a Category Forum and may I attend?

Formerly know as Special Interest Groups, these Forums are open to all delegates and are designed to discuss, review challenges and current issues on your specific industry sector eg: venues.

Q. What is the dress code for the conference?

Suitable clothing is important when you are travelling in the Northern Territory. When travelling in the outback jeans, or similar practical clothing is recommended.

• During the conference days, casual business attire is preferred.
• For the social program, casual attire is recommended for both the welcome reception and the casual night. As both venues on these 2 nights are outdoors please ensure that you wear comfortable footwear. (That means no stilettos on these 2 nights!!!) Don't forget to bring a warm jacket or coat for the evenings can be cool.
• The minimum dress standard for the gala dinner is lounge suit or semi-formal. The theme is black and silver so dress to impress! (Stilettos allowed!)

Q. What is the climate for early May?

The Northern Territory experiences extremes in seasonal conditions mainly due to the landscape, variations of latitude and it's unique topography. Two distinct regions, the Top End and Central Australia, help define the differences, and with regard to the weather there is something for everyone in the Territory.

1 March - 31 May
Average Temperature
Min 12. 7 Max 27
This season is characterised by warm days and cool nights. Great weather for exploring the many sights by foot or in the comfort of a vehicle.

Q. Can I bring extra guests to the social events?

Yes, extra tickets to all catered social events can be purchased up until Wednesday 23 April 2008. Register on-line or contact Tour Hosts Delegate Services (MEA 2008 Conference Registration Services) on 02 9265 0700 or via email at mea2008@tourhosts.com.au. See Social Program in the navigational bar for a list of events.

Q. Are hotel transfers available?

Transfers will be provided to and from certain events if your hotel is not within walking distance. More information will be available closer to the event.

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REGISTRATION FEES and RELATED QUESTIONS

Q. How do I register for the conference?

Registrations are accepted by online booking process or fax. 
1. To register online, please click here. The fax back registration form will be available from February 2008 on this website.

Q. Is MEA membership required to attend the conference?

No, but there is a discount for MEA members. Why not become a MEA member and enjoy membership prices to the conference as well as many other benefits. To become a member of MEA please contact the MEA Office on (02) 9929 5400 and speak with the National Membership Coordinator. Email membership@mea.org.au.

Q. When do the early bird special rates end?

Early bird registration closes at midnight on Friday 29 February 2008.

Q. What is the cut-off date for registrations?

Wednesday 23 April 2008

Q. I need to cancel. Is there a cancellation policy?

Cancellations need to be made in writing to Tour Hosts Delegate Services (MEA 2008 Conference Registration Services) to mea2008@tourhosts.com.au. Phone: 02 9265 0700 Please refer to MEA Conference when making telephone enquiries.

1. Cancellations made before Friday 7 March 2008, will receive a refund less a $55 administration fee.
2. Cancellations made from Friday 7 March to Monday 7 April 2008 will receive a refund less $110 administration fee.
3. Cancellations after Monday 7 April 2008 will receive no refund.
4. No refunds will be issued until after the conference.
5. Substitute names will be accepted. Substituting a delegate with another colleague is welcome as long as conference secretariat is notified by email by Friday 18 April, 2008.
6. Non MEA members substituting with MEA members will incur the registration fee balance.

Q. At what times can I register?

Saturday 10 May – 10.30am – 5.30pm
Sunday 11 May – 7.00am – 3.45pm
Monday 12 May – 8.00am – 5.00pm

The registration desk will be located on the ground floor at the Alice Springs Convention Centre.

Q. Will my details be published in the delegate list?

In registering for this event relevant details may be incorporated into a delegate list for the benefit of all delegates (name and organisation only), and may be made available to parties directly related to the event including MEA (including its Branch Committees and staff), our database contractor, venues, speakers, and sponsors (subject to conditions). The information will also be added to the MEA database in order to allocate PD points relating to attendance.

Q. What happens to the photos taken at the conference?

The MEA National Conference is being documented for future use by MEA.  Photos taken at the conference will be used by MEA for media and promotional purposes in print and online. Some images will be available for viewing after the conference.

If you do not consent to images of yourself being used in this manner please notify conference staff upon registering on site and we will endeavor wherever possible to ensure that images of you are not included.

Q. Who do I contact with questions regarding conference registration ?

Tour Hosts Delegate Services
MEA 2008 Conference Registration Services
Phone: 02 9265 0700 (Please refer to MEA Conference when making telephone enquiries)
Email: mea2008@tourhosts.com.au 

Postal Address:
Tour Hosts Pty Limited
Level 10
51 Druitt Street
GPO Box 128
Sydney NSW 2000

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ACCOMMODATION, FLIGHTS, TRAVEL QUESTIONS

Q. Do I need to book my hotel room and make my own travel arrangements?

Yes, individual arrangements need to be made regarding flights and accommodation. Click here to review all accommodation options.

Q. Once I choose accommodation, how do I book?

The accommodation information provides a direct booking email address or phone/fax numbers. Note the booking code to quote to receive special MEA rates.

Q. Would you advise flying in earlier?

Yes, there are some fantastic pre and post touring/activity options available through Territory Discoveries. To go to Territory Discoveries website click here. As we are expecting around 450 delegates to attend the conference the most convenient flights will fill up quickly.

Q. How do I book my flight?

The longer you wait to book travel - the more you will pay!! You can book your flight through the Accommodation and Travel section of this website. To see all available flight options and book your flight click here.

By rail

Great Southern Rail are pleased to offer a 20% discount for those wishing to travel from their home state to/from the conference. The discount will apply on all Great Southern Rail services - The Ghan, Indian Pacific and the Overland, for travel up until the end of May 2008. For bookings and further information, please email agentsupport@gsr.com.au (Bookings are subject to availability and booking conditions apply)

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ADVERTISING and SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Q. Is my company able to book an exhibition space?

Yes, we invite you to exhibit your product or service in the conference trade exhibition. MEA 2008 exhibition will be situated in the main foyer where refreshment breaks will be held. Phone National Events Manager Anna Tartakovskaia to discuss on (02) 9929 5400 or email at anna@mea.org.au.

Q. What Sponsorship opportunities are remaining as I would like to support the conference.

Showcase to over 450 Event Industry Executives. Buying the right to associate your company with the MEA National Conference can be an excellent marketing and communication tool. The exposure will impact positively on sales and undoubtedly label your company as progressive, generous and dedicated to the meetings industry. Click here to download a copy of the sponsorship prospectus. Phone National Events Manager Anna Tartakovskaia to discuss on ph (02) 9929 5400 or email anna@mea.org.au.

Q. May I book an advertisement in the conference handbook?

Yes, there will be limited space available for advertising in the handbook. Please refer to the Sponsorship Prospectus for advertising costs. Phone National Events Manager, Anna Tartakovskaia to discuss on ph (02) 9929 5400 or email anna@mea.org.au.

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