Melbourne is counting down to welcoming more than 14,000 delegates from around the world for the 2023 Rotary International Convention, which kicks off in less than four weeks’ time.

Taking place 27 May-1 June across both Rod Laver Arena at Melbourne and Olympic Parks and Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), the convention is considered to be one of the most valuable business events secured for Victoria in the past 10 years, with an expected $91 million injection into the local economy.

MCB chief executive Julia Swanson said the Bureau was thrilled to be hosting this year’s Rotary International Convention in Melbourne.

“The convention is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our city’s strengths as a global destination for hosting large-scale conventions – the first of this scale since pre-covid,” Swanson said.

“The city has been preparing for this event for many years, and we are confident that our world-class facilities, exceptional events supply chain, and city-wide collaboration will ensure an unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

Throughout the five-day conference, Rotary members will have a full program of events, including keynote speeches, workshops, and networking opportunities, all set against the backdrop of Melbourne’s world-renowned hospitality and cultural offerings. Hundreds of ancillary events are expected to take place across many of Melbourne’s leading venues including the Plaza Ballroom, Eureka89 and Flemington Racecourse.

Rotary’s House of Friendship exhibition hall at the MCEC, where more than 100 Rotary humanitarian projects will be on display, will be open to the public for free from 29 May to 1 June. The venue will also host the convention’s breakout sessions, luncheons and pre-convention events.

Often described by members as a “mini-United Nations” because of its global scope and cultural diversity, Rotary’s International Convention will see Rotary members come together to exchange ideas on how to improve lives and bring positive, lasting change to communities around the world.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to host this year’s Rotary International Convention in Melbourne, which will provide an outstanding combination of inspiration and entertainment for our members and participants, as well as for those interested in learning more about us,” Rotary Chair of the Host Organisation Committee Mary Barry said.

“It’s also an opportunity for Victorian Rotary members to experience the international scope of Rotary and to showcase the positive change they are bringing to communities on a global stage.”

The bid led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau with support from the Victorian State Government and Tourism Australia, sees this hero event return to Melbourne for the second time, marking the 30th anniversary of the 1993 convention.