Growth through Action: Strong turnout of Nominations for the Board of Directors Election

By Thomas Staunton, MEA Director


It is with a sense of humility and appreciation that I share on behalf of the Board and CEO the news of a great result in response to our call for nominations for the 2023 MEA Board of Directors election. The healthy response from across the industry and member cohort is a powerful indicator of the collective strength of our organisation and the genuine commitment of our members to the broader Australian event industry.

In the realm of events, where precision and creativity intertwine, the recent nominations serve as a quiet affirmation of our members' dedication to steering the course of our association as well as celebrating and representing the diverse events industry. It reflects not only an opportunity for engagement but, more importantly, a shared commitment to the welfare and growth of the entire industry.

Each nomination embodies a unique blend of expertise, experience, and devotion that characterises the diverse landscape of the Australian event industry. These candidates are not just individuals; they are leaders and share a vision to proactively represent and fortify the industry's standing, both locally and on the global stage.

The continuing Directors express a sincere sense of gratitude for this new interest, and of course, extend our genuine and deep appreciation and recognition to the outgoing Directors who have contributed greatly to both MEA and the larger event industry in so many ways. We are in no doubt that each will continue to do so beyond their tenure on the Board. It signifies not merely their interest in leadership roles but a deep-seated dedication to the ongoing success and importance of our organisation and the sector. The prospect of collaborating with new Directors brings feelings of anticipation, acknowledging that their fresh perspectives will undoubtedly enrich our collective journey through MEA’s 49th year. As the oldest and largest Australian events industry peak body, we’ll collectively have the mandate to ensure its continued longevity and prosperity, as well as both stability for and leadership of the industry.

Our commitment to diversity, in all its forms, remains central. This year’s nominations reinforce our pledge to cultivate an inclusive environment, where each voice is not only heard but embraced. Our industry is a mosaic of talents, and the composition of our Board should reflect this diversity to continue to best serve the varied and common needs of our members.

We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with new minds, to witness the continued evolution of our organisation, and to unitedly uphold the strategic values of ‘lead’, ‘empower’ and ‘connect’ that will bind us as Board, and MEA to the industry.

I extend my appreciation to each candidate who has engaged and wish them luck in this process. I also encourage all eligible members to vote! An email was sent from ‘MEA Secretary’ on Monday of this week to voting-entitled members, so please look out for it in your inbox. If you didn’t receive such an email but believe you should have, please reach out to the MEA HQ team.

Member participation is the cornerstone of MEA and the foundation upon which it has been built. Together, we are crafting a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of any sub-segment of the industry.

My excitement is real!