NT Government passes legislation for new tourism and events body
The Northern Territory Government has passed legislation that will allow the merge of the Northern Territory Major Events Company and Tourism NT.
The amalgamation of the two entities was first floated in March, with the decision to proceed with a combined organisation announced in September.
Northern Territory Business Events is part of the Tourism NT and will be part of the merge.
“By bringing together tourism and events under one brand, we’re backing the industry with a clearer direction, we’re cutting duplication, reducing red tape and making it easier to tell one strong Territory story here and around the world,” said the NT’s tourism, hospitality and major events minister, Marie-Clare Boothby.
“The fact is that the old way wasn’t delivering. If we want to rebuild our economy and compete nationally, we can’t keep doing things the same way and hoping for a different result.”
The new organisation, to be known as Tourism and Events NT will operate from January 1, 2026.
Nyaal Banyul releases first menus
The forthcoming Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre has released the menus it will open the venue with in mid-2026.
True to its promise to hero local producers, the menus clearly showcase what the region has to offer, from Meredith feta and Lonsdale Tomato Farm tomatoes to Western Plains lamb, Barwon Valley bacon, Otway pork and Bellarine blackberries.
“Our food philosophy is all about gathering and sharing – connecting people with place,” said Nyaal Banjul’s head chef, Andreas Gober.
“We’ve worked closely with local farmers, producers and artisans who share our passion for sustainability and creativity. Every dish on our menu captures the freshness and beauty of Geelong and The Bellarine.”
The convention centre’s general manager, Rick Aylett, remarked on the importance of the culinary offering to delegates’ experience of an event at the venue.
“It’s all about creating a unique, unforgettable experience for our customers. Whether you’re hosting a major convention or an intimate celebration, everyone who walks through our doors will get a taste of what makes this region so special.”
See the menus here.
Minor Hotels brings Avani brand to Brisbane
Minor Hotels have brought Queen’s Wharf Residences in Brisbane’s city centre under its new Avani Living brand.
Originally labelled simply Queen’s Wharf Residences and managed by Minor Hotels since opening earlier this year, the Avani Living Queen’s Wharf Residences offering sits within one of the towers of the $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf development on Brisbane River.
The spacious and slick 225 one, two and three-bedroom apartments are mixed in within residential apartments in the tower and provide an ideal accommodation option for those looking for more space and amenities – each apartment features both kitchens and laundries.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Avani Living Queen’s Wharf Residences to our Avani portfolio,” said Minor Hotels Australasia’s chief operating officer, Craig Hooley.
“As demand for Brisbane continues to increase, this addition strengthens our presence in the city and allows us to meet the increasing demand from travellers seeking more space, comfort and flexibility, whether their stay is short or long term.”
