19th Annual Hospitality Tourism and Events Expo

The Centre for Work Integrated Learning, along with the School of International Business, hosted the 19th Annual Hospitality Tourism and Events Expo at VU's City Conference Centre on Friday 7 September. More than 260 people attended, including 88 industry representatives from across the three sectors, along with VU students from Higher and Vocational Ed courses.

Diane Smith, VTIC CEO

Prof Alison Morrison (Head, School of International Business) introduced Expo Guest Speaker, Ms Dianne Smith, (CEO, Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), and International Business Adjunct Professor), who gave the closing address at the Expo. Dianne’s presentation was warmly received by students and guests, and included a range of inspirational insights from her personal and professional experience. The presentation also provided the ideal forum for the launch of the VU Todd Blake Student Award.

The Todd Blake Student Award is a legacy project in honour and memory of the former CEO of VTIC, Todd Blake, who was well known for his passion for and commitment to the tourism, events and hospitality industries, as well as his leadership and can-do approach to life.

Todd was also a VU Alum, and had launched the inaugural Victoria Tourism Week at 2010’s VU Expo. The Expo was a featured event in the official Victoria Tourism Week (VTW) Program. VTW is an initiative of VECCI through VTIC, the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, and Destination Melbourne (a VU partner).

Some great feedback on the day was received from industry partners. ‘Really impressed, the day ran well, we were made to feel welcome. Great to be involved – the students were delightful!’ said Maria, of Qantas Holidays & Viva Holidays.

Rosane, Team Leader, Coaching & Development Choice Hotels Australasia Pty Ltd, said: ‘Thank you for the opportunity to promote Choice Hotels today at the Expo, it was a great morning and we were able to speak with a lot of great students who showed a lot of interest and had some great questions.’
Kellie, Marketing Manager at Destination Melbourne said she was very impressed with the calibre of students at this year’s Expo.
Louise, an Event Specialist with the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia, added, ‘We have found the Expo to be an excellent avenue for signing up volunteers.’