DESTINATION INFORMATION

MELBOURNE – YOUR HOST CITY
Melbourne is set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. The city itself, laid out in a large rectangle and boasting a lively and cosmopolitan pulse, sits on the northern banks of the Yarra River, about five kilometres from the bay.

CBD
One glance at a map and it’s obvious that Melbourne is a planned city: a tidy, balanced grid of neatly angled streets. But beneath this sense of everything in its place restraint lies a restless creative energy constantly pushing back at the city’s seeming conservatism. The CBD is made up of precincts – distinct enclaves each with its own flavour and charm. Some are just a lane or two, while others cover the banks of the Yarra River or a busy CBD street.

City fringe
Extending around the bay are a number of inner suburbs, each with its own distinct character and personality. A short tram ride from the city centre, Melbourne’s suburban neighbourhoods are a must see for anyone wanting to experience what life here is really all about.

AUSTRALIA
Australia's landscape is a picture of amazing diversity, contrasts and natural wonder. From the ancient rock Uluru (Ayers Rock) to the Great Barrier Reef, Australia's Red Centre reaches out to a magnificent azure coastline. Scattered across this beautiful environment, our thriving cities bubble with sophistication and energy. Brisbane, Queensland's vibrant sub tropical capital, Sydney and its magnificent harbour, and Melbourne with its heritage of arts, fashion and fine food, are just three of Australia's outstanding city destinations. Australia, the world's smallest continent and largest island, is like nowhere else on earth. It is as big as mainland United States but has only 18 million people. It is adventurous, stylish and friendly, has unique flora and fauna and a fantastic climate. Aussies (as the locals are called) enjoy sport, beaches, music, performing arts, outdoor cafes, pubs, multicultural restaurants and good friends. A rich cultural blend of fashion, languages and cuisine colours the streets of Australia's major cities. Australia's diverse mix of environments and cultures offers an encounter like no other. Explore lively, sophisticated cities, experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Australia's natural wonders, discover the ancient mysteries of Aboriginal culture, and see and feel the rigours of life in the rugged Outback. Regardless of which path you take, Australia guarantees the experience of a lifetime!

ARRIVING IN SYDNEY
Sydney airport is located 8km from the city. Taxis are available outside the terminal. A fare into the city costs approximately AUD30.00. Alternatively, there are bus shuttle services and the Airport Link train service. Airport Link trains operate every ten minutes. A journey into the city takes approximately ten minutes and will cost AUD11.00 (at the time of printing).

CAR PARKING
Sofitel Wentworth offers private indoor parking for all of its guests.

CLIMATE
Delegates can expect fine weather in November with average temperature ranging from 14.1ºC – 24.1ºC
(57.38ºF – 75.38ºF).

CONFERENCE VENUE
Sofitel Melbourne
25 Collins Street
Melbourne Vic 3000
Australia
Telephone: (61-3) 9653 0000
Website: www.sofitelmelbourne.com.au

FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Please indicate on your registration form if you require disabled facilities.

INSURANCE
It is strongly recommended that delegates take out adequate medical, travel and personal insurance prior to the commencement of travel.

LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
In the event of industrial disruption or other unforeseen circumstances, the Conference Organisers accept no responsibility for loss of monies incurred by delegates.

NO SMOKING POLICY
Delegates should be aware that smoking is banned in public buildings and many hotels and restaurants
throughout Australia, including the Conference venue.