As 2020 comes to a close, we’re looking back on some of our most-clicked stories of the year.

Watch our video wrap-up below, or scroll on to read the full articles.

PM announces business events funding

Spirits were high in September, when the Federal Government announced a $50 million lifeline for the business events industry.

The Business Events Grants Program forms part of the government’s $1 billion COVID-19 Recovery Fund and aims to drive confidence back into the sector.

The funding came after Prime Minister Scott Morrison sat down with business events leaders in July, to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the industry.

Expressions of interest for the program opened in November.

TFE’s major Melbourne expansion

It’s all systems go for TFE Hotels, who are in the midst of a major expansion across Melbourne.

Following the opening of Vibe Hotel Melbourne in July, TFE launched a new Adina property in Southbank with 220 rooms and three meeting spaces.

Another Adina hotel followed in December, opening in West Melbourne with 99 rooms and surrounded by lush zen gardens.

But it doesn’t end there. TFE will introduce a new brand in early 2021, with the launch of Quincy Hotel Melbourne. Expect 241 urban-style rooms and one of the city’s highest rooftop pools.

Crystalbrook Collections completes its trifecta

Up north to Queensland now, where Crystalbrook Collection has completed its trifecta of hotels with the opening of Flynn.

The bold and stylish hotel boasts 311 rooms and suites, two glass pools and three meeting spaces.

Flynn joins Crystalbrook’s existing Cairns hotels Bailey and Riley, together bringing almost 900 luxury rooms to the city.

Events Uncovered 2020 hailed a success

Spice Magazine’s very own boutique expo and conference, Events Uncovered, went ahead in September, signalling the return of business events.

Held at SMC Conference & Function Centre, the hybrid event attracted more than 900 in-person and virtual attendees across the day.

Planning is already underway for Events Uncovered 2021, taking place on the 15th of July.

Fairmont to make its Aussie debut

And finally, Accor has confirmed its luxury Fairmont brand is coming to Australia.

Fairmont Port Douglas is slated to open in Far North Queensland in 2023, boasting 253 rooms, conference facilities and of course, stunning resort pools.

Accor’s Simon McGrath promises the brand will bring a new level of luxury to Port Douglas.