EEAA REVEALS GROWTH ASPIRATIONS

THE Exhibition & Event Association of Australasia’s (EEAA) president Spiro Anemogianni revealed ambitious growth plans to transform the group into “the peak body for the sector”.

Speaking to delegates at the EEAA annual conference in Sydney yesterday, Anemogianni said it was important that the two ‘Es’ in the organisation’s name were both recogised.

“We are very strong in the former but need to embrace more of the other major events players,” he admitted.

Anemogianni said that with other associations currently at a crossroad, now was the time for the EEAA to take the lead.

“It is no secret that since becoming president, I, with the board’s support, have held discussions with some of the other bodies, namely Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) and the PCO Association,” he said.

Regardless of the talks Anemogianni insisted EEAA’s financial position and clear strategy would allow it to become the main player, urging members to “watch this space”.

MEANWHILE, The industry’s highest achievers were recognised last night at the EEAA 2016 Awards for Excellence.

The entries were assessed by 32 independent judges from across Australia and covered over 20 industry categories from pop culture, energy & resources, IT and health.

Among those recognised last night were the two winners of the Richard Geddes Young Achiever Award: Anne-Marie Mina of Exhibitions and Trade Fairs and James Kennedy of Exhibit System’s.

The Best Show for 2017 award was taken home by Hair Expo Australia 2017, organised by Reed Exhibitions Australia, whilst the newest accolade Best Association Event was also won by Reed and its association partner Interactive Games & Entertainment Association for their work on PAX Australia.

View the full list of EEAA winners by CLICKING HERE.

Pictured in Sydney yesterday are Spiro Anemogianni and chief executive Joyce DiMascio.