(8/11/2018) Major international conference hits Fremantle

More than 270 of Australia’s leading specialists in urban renewal and town planning will join experts from around the world in Fremantle next week for 2018 International Cities, Town Centres and Communities conference.

The conference at the Esplanade Hotel from 14-16 November will feature 48 presentations from local, national and international experts, as well as field trips, workshops and interest group sessions.

ICTC Society conference director Renee O'Halloran said the Fremantle conference had attracted huge interest from city leaders and urban planners.

“Fremantle and Perth are really leading the way across Australia in delivering innovative urban development, housing and place making initiatives and we’re not surprised that delegates have been so enthusiastic to visit Perth to hear about these projects,” Ms O’Halloran said.

“The three day ICTC program, featuring world-renowned urban regeneration and economic development specialists from the US, Europe and Asia Pacific, will focus on how to deliver progressive and people-centric cities that are vibrant, innovative, connected and liveable for the future.

“There’s also scheduled field trips giving participants an insight into initiatives the city uses to leverage its authenticity and sustainability.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for delegates to see Fremantle as it opens its doors during an exciting period of activity as the city undergoes the largest urban revitalisation project in its history.”

The City of Fremantle was selected as the host city for the ICTC conference last year following a competitive bidding process.

Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said the event would provide a significant boost to the local economy.

“The conference will bring more than 270 delegates to Fremantle, who will be staying in our hotels, eating in our restaurants and spending money on entertainment and gifts,” Mayor Pettitt said.

“A number of local businesses have also been engaged to provide meals and refreshments during the field trips, as well as being used as venues for networking functions and site visits during the event.

“The conference will also provide an opportunity for Fremantle to showcase our successful urban renewal projects like Kings Square, Heirloom apartments and WGV, and show off our beautiful city to industry professionals from around Australia.”

As a precursor to the ICTC conference the City of Fremantle is hosting an event at Bathers Beach House on Tuesday evening where the City’s new Destination Marketing Strategic Plan will be officially launched by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia.

The City’s Economic Development Manager Matt Hammond and the chair of City’s Destination Marketing Working Group Linda Wayman will also give a presentation on the plan at the ICTC conference on Thursday.

The marketing plan identifies high yielding conferences and business tourism as a new opportunity for Fremantle thanks to the many new hotel developments in the city.

To view the Destination Marketing Strategic Plan 2018-22 visit the Destination Marketing page on the City of Fremantle website.