<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?> <docID>338673</docID> <postdate>2025-02-20 11:30:24</postdate> <headline>Conferences, training and finding the right venue</headline> <body><p><span class="kicker-line" style="font-weight: 400;">Here’s a guide to quality training and conference spaces available in the Canberra region that are suitable for any upcoming event.</span></p> <p><strong>Finding the right venue can assist in the success rate of a conference or training day. From the atmosphere, catering, accessible audio-visual equipment and location, a lot can go into making a work event a success. </strong></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338702" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Manhattan-Room-Royal-Hotel-Queanbeyan.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="491" /></p> <caption>Manhattan Room, Royal Hotel Queanbeyan.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>A blend of character and functionality</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Located within a historic building, general manager of the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan Matt Lomas says they offer a blend of character and functionality to conferences and professional-development events.</p> <p class="p2">“We provide three multi-functional event spaces, each designed for versatility and equipped with modern amenities,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Every room connects to an outdoor courtyard and atrium, creating the perfect setting for breakout sessions, networking and moments of fresh air.â€</p> <p class="p2">Matt says their Upper House space is designed for flexibility, allowing them to tailor it to any client’s requirements.</p> <p class="p2">“Whether it’s cabaret, theatre, cocktail or boardroom-style set-ups, our venue adapts seamlessly,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Each room is fitted with high-quality AV technology and our purpose-built kitchen delivers outstanding catering tailored to suit any event style.â€</p> <p class="p2">Matt says the event spaces cater from small to large groups of up to 120 people.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our venue is a popular choice for networking events, offering a sophisticated setting for professionals to connect and collaborate,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2"><span class="s1">Regularly hosting corporate training days, boardroom-style conferences and industry workshops, Matt says they accommodate both in-person and remote participants via the use of large screens, high-speed connectivity support and Apple AirPlay to allow for wireless connectivity.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p> <p class="p2">“Combined with exceptional customer service, we ensure a smooth and professional experience for every occasion,†says Matt.</p> <p class="p1"><i>Royal Hotel Queanbeyan, 85 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6297 1444 or visit <a href="http://royalhotelqbn.com.au">royalhotelqbn.com.au</a></i></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338700" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Ginninderra-IVvy-Mercure-Hotel.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="490" /></p> <caption>The 59 Cameron Ave Conference and Event Centre.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Top-floor conference centre in a prime location</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Offering views of Lake Ginninderra, Black Mountain and the Brindabellas, the 59 Cameron Av Conference and Event Centre, located on the top floor of the Mercure Canberra Belconnen, is a purpose-built facility designed to host conferences and professional-development events.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“We’re nestled in a prime location,†says director of sales and marketing, Natasha Mijoc.</p> <p class="p2">With 260 on-site car parks with direct access to the conference floor, Natasha says convenience is guaranteed.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Flexibility is at the heart of what we do,†she says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our spaces can be combined into larger rooms or split into smaller, more intimate settings and are perfect for any event size.</p> <p class="p2">“From the moment you book, a detailed onsite contact works closely with you to customise every aspect of your event and a dedicated function supervisor will ensure everything runs seamlessly on the day.â€<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">Catering to residential conferences to high-powered board meetings, Natasha says event attendees have access to premium accommodation “just steps awayâ€, alongside a vibrant selection of cafes and bars within walking distance.</p> <p class="p2">Commended for its natural light, picturesque views and inclusive menu, Natasha says the centre creates a refreshing and energising atmosphere for attendees.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2"><span class="s1">“Our state-of-the-art Ngunnawal Boardroom is a standout choice for local and interstate organisations, featuring advanced video conferencing technology integrated into the boardroom table for a seamless meeting experience,†says Natasha.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p> <p class="p2">“Anticipating the needs of a modern audience, we’ve embraced evolving technologies and accessibility standards.â€<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p1"><i>Mercure Hotel Belconnen, 59 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen ACT. Call 5104 3000 or visit <a href="http://mercurebelconnen.com.au">mercurebelconnen.com.au</a></i></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338705" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Salthouse-Community-Centre-Braddon-dedicated-to-Disability-Rights-Advocate-Sue-Salthouse.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="490" /></p> <caption>Salthouse Community Centre, Braddon dedicated to Disability Rights Advocate Sue Salthouse.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Location choices to suit all sizes of events</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Equipped with modern amenities such as free wifi, portable white boards, a sound system, projector and a screen ensuring all presenters and attendees have the necessary tools for a successful event, says Northside Community Service Deputy CEO Todd Everett. He says the location and amenities of their various spaces ensures that event organisers and participants have a hassle-free experience every time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our easy-to-use technology supports a wide range of presentation and training methods,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“We also have a range of venue sizes and flexible venue options to suit various event formats, whether it’s a small workshop, mid-sized seminar or a larger conference.â€<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">With disability friendly facilities and secured door access via email codes, Todd says they eliminate the need for physical keys.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Organisers have appreciated our keyless access system,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our secure system makes it easy for organisers to access the venue without logistical challenges.â€</p> <p class="p2">Todd says they have ample natural light and temperature-controlled spaces, making for an efficient and relaxed atmosphere.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our venues have been used by not-for-profit organisations, government organisations, volunteer groups and community development agencies for training, workshops, conferences, community programs, meetings and as a vaccination centre and clinic.â€<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">Equipped with high-speed wifi, projectors and sound systems to support virtual and hybrid events, Todd says they can sit anywhere from 10 to 88 people at a time in their venues.</p> <p class="p1"><i>Northside Community Service. Call 6171 8000 or visit <a href="http://northside.asn.au/venue-hire/">northside.asn.au/venue-hire</a></i></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338703" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Oaks-Ranch-Lean-Timms.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="490" /></p> <caption>The Oaks Ranch located on 300 acres in Mossy Point on the South Coast.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Conference facility with a view</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Oaks Ranch is a luxury, 14-room boutique hotel, restaurant, bar, event and conference facility and golf course, says general manager Josh Tyler.</p> <p class="p2">“We are situated on the south coast, five minutes from Broulee Beach on 300 acres, flanked by the Tomago River and Candlagan Creek,†he says.</p> <p class="p2">“The Oaks Ranch first opened in 1970. The current owners closed the hotel in June 2021 to renovate and elevate the property’s offering, before we reopened in February 2022.</p> <p class="p2">“Our conference and event facilities offer everything from boardroom-style to cabaret conferencing, weddings and events with a large alfresco breakout area, stunning views west across the property to the Deua mountain ranges.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“The venue has high-speed, reliable wifi, a drop-down data projector with audio surround, flipcharts and a whiteboard.â€</p> <p class="p2">Josh says the restaurant and bar, Arlo, is a refined casual eating experience, influenced by Australian, Asian and European cuisines.</p> <p class="p2">“For conferencing we offer full or half-day delegate packages, a selection of house-made sweets and savoury snacks for our morning and afternoon teas,†he says.</p> <p class="p2">“Our conference lunches range from gourmet sandwiches on local artisan breads to dining in Arlo. We also offer barista-made coffee, specialty teas, and in-house breakfast for overnight guests.</p> <p class="p2">“Oaks Ranch is a Spanish mission-style property, a rural oasis with a sense of tranquillity – and the sunsets are truly amazing.â€</p> <p class="p1"><i>Oaks Ranch, 340 Old Mossy Point Road, Mossy Point, NSW. Call 4471 7403, or visit <a href="http://oaksranch.com.au">oaksranch.com.au</a></i></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338701" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Goulburn-Soldiers-Club.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="490" /></p> <caption>Goulburn Soldiers Club.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Soldiers Club provides tranquil venue</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Known for its modern facilities, exceptional service and location, promotions and loyalty co-ordinator, of the Goulburn Soldiers Club, Emma McColl says it’s a premier venue for conferences and professional events.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“This scenic setting provides a tranquil and inspiring backdrop, perfect for networking, team-building and corporate gatherings,†she says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">Overlooking Belmore Park in Goulburn, Emma says the club tailors its spaces, services and training programs by offering versatile room set ups, industry-specific event support and a variety of catering options.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“We provide scalable conference layouts, professional AV tech and private spaces to suit different industries,†she says.</p> <p class="p2">From corporate seminars to hands-on training, Emma says they host a variety of diverse conferences and training sessions.</p> <p class="p2">“We host anything from government meetings, professional development workshops, industry networking events and trade training sessions,†she says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Sectors such as healthcare, education, hospitality, agriculture and business leadership frequently utilise the venue for presentations, skills training and team building activities.â€</p> <p class="p2">Emma says they have integrated modern learning technologies and flexible event solutions to adapt to the changing industry,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“We continuously update our facilities and services to meet evolving industry needs, providing a seamless and innovative event experience.â€</p> <p class="p1"><i>Goulburn Soldiers Club, 15/17 Market Street, Goulburn NSW. Call 4821 3300 or visit <a href="http://goulburnsoldiers.com.au">goulburnsoldiers.com.au</a></i></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338704" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Pilgrim-House-Conference-Location.jpg" alt="" width="735" height="490" /></p> <caption>Pilgrim House.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Conference venue stays technology savvy</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Located within an easy walking distance from major office buildings, including government departments, Pilgrim House conference centre manager Susan du Boulay says Pilgrim House is the perfect venue for workplaces to host training days and seminars.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">With a variety of room sizes and configurations, Susan says they tailor the space and services to meet the needs of different audiences.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">The location on Northbourne Avenue makes for an accessible location for Canberran businesses.</p> <p class="p2">“We are close to the light rail and other public transport,†she says.</p> <p class="p2">“We’re also close to the centre of Canberra.â€</p> <p class="p2">Constantly evolving learning technologies and adapting to changing industry needs, Susan says they have an assortment of digital project equipment, free wi-fi for presenters and participants, and a public address system in larger spaces.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“We are often appreciated for our attention to detail and are proud of our readily available support,†says Susan.</p> <p class="p1"><i>Pilgrim House, 69 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra. Call </i><span class="s1"><i>6257 4600 or visit <a href="http://canberracityuca.org.au/conferencecentre">canberracityuca.org.au/conferencecentre</a></i></span></p> <p><img class=" wp-image-338706" src="https://citynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Gary-Cheeseman.jpg" alt="" width="734" height="490" /></p> <caption>Ferst Training Solutions CEO Gary Cheeseman.</caption> <h3 class="p1"><span class="s1" style="color: #800000;"><b>Ensuring compliance with health and work standards</b></span></h3> <p class="p1">Offering multiple options for standard compliance training and nationally recognised training, Ferst Training Solutions CEO Gary Cheeseman says the company works closely with clients to create alternative options such as online training to allow participants to maintain compliance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“During the national COVID-19 response effort, employers began to amend enterprise bargaining agreements with flexible working arrangements affecting face-to-face training,†says Gary.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Our emergency response specialists go out of their way to make time to attend industry seminars and review changes to legislation.â€</p> <p class="p2">With more than 15 years of experience managing emergency response compliance in Canberra, Gary says their specialists work closely with clients to determine the requirements for the site to remain compliant with Australian standards and work, health and safety legislation.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">“Regular communication is maintained with our clients to ensure that emergency response within the workplace remains a priority,†he says.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p2">Training is primarily conducted at the client’s workplace or at the Ferst head office training room. Companies can expect to learn about emergency control organisation training, fire awareness and extinguisher training, building evacuation and training with test drill, spill kit training as well as nationally recognised training courses.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p class="p1"><i>Ferst Training Solutions, 1/2 Yallourn Street, Fyshwick. Call 1300 333 778 or visit <a href="http://ferst.com.au">ferst.com.au</a></i></p> </body>