The Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) 2011 Welcome Reception marks another world-first for the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB) as they become the first convention and visitors bureau in the world to use ‘augmented reality’ for an industry invitation.
The invitation uses virtual computer-generated imagery to create a 3D visual effect which sees Melbourne icons and landscapes appear to lift from the computer screen in 3D animation for those with a webcam. Click here to view the invitation. Those with webcams can view the invitation in 3D by printing the PDF and following the instructions. Those without webcams can view a 2D version.
According to Sandra Chipchase, CEO of MCVB, which runs the AIME Welcome Reception event, the invitation is one of many Australian-first innovations for the Bureau and for AIME.
“Bringing Melbourne to life through this amazing augmented reality 3D imagery invite is another way to draw people from around the world to AIME and the highly-anticipated Welcome Reception, which is a must-attend event on the annual Business Events calendar.
“MCVB is consistently leading the industry in world-firsts and firsts for Australia, from using innovative ways to offset carbon emissions, through to the launch of our world-first online delegate boosting tool. We are delighted to add this world-first to our achievements,” Chipchase said, adding that another draw-card for the event is its unique location.
“Melbourne’s avant-garde seaside suburb, St Kilda, will be on show during AIME 2011, with the St Kilda Sea Baths chosen as the location of the AIME Welcome Reception.
“The use of the St Kilda Sea Baths for a major event marks another first for Melbourne and will see the Sea Baths complex transform into a series of spaces which take advantage of the unique location.
“With a history dating back to the middle of the 19th Century, today the Sea Baths are home to popular restaurants, spa and wellness centres and the indoor Sea Baths.
“The Sea Baths complex will be used to create a mix of distinct spaces, each set around the oceania and spa theme to take full advantage of the stunning location.
“Last year, the AIME Welcome Reception attracted 2,200 people from 50 countries, and this year promises to be the best event yet,” she said.
The creative concept, staging and design for the AIME 2011 Welcome Reception has been organised with the assistance of key event sponsors, Atlantic Group [v] and Solution RED.
Up to 2,500 people are expected to attend the AIME 2011 Welcome Reception at The St Kilda Sea Baths from 6pm – 9pm on Monday 14 February, 2011.
Tickets for the Welcome Reception can now be booked online by clicking here.
AIME will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Australia, 15 and 16 February 2011.
