By Maddison Devoy
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) Food and Beverage team were recognized at the prestigious National MEA Awards for the bespoke retail and catering menus designed for THE LUME Melbourne.
THE LUME Melbourne, created by Grande Experiences and permanently located at MCEC, is an immersive digital art gallery, incorporating design, sights, sounds, aromas, and tastes.
MCEC’s award-winning team showcased their expertise and creativity in designing premium lunch and dinner 
menus for the dedicated café, as well as customized menus for events that align with and elevate the exhibit, delivering an authentic experience for visitors.
In line with MCEC’s strong sustainability focus, the café and event menus were designed to be 100% sustainable. Menus feature high-quality Victorian seasonal produce, locally sourced beers, seltzers, spirits, and wines. Food waste is donated for redistribution through food rescue organization, OzHarvest, or processed onsite in MCEC’s organic dehydrator.
For corporate event organizers, MCEC offers opportunities to host events on the mezzanine level as well as exclusive events throughout the gallery. MCEC’s culinary experts design customized event menus to align with the theme of the exhibition or to meet the customer’s specifications. MCEC was honored to host the 2022 AFL Season Launch and collaborate with Indigenous Chef and founder of Mabu Mabu, Nornie Bero to deliver a unique menu for the event.
MCEC’s Head of Food and Beverage, Paul Kanaan, was proud to accept the National MEA Banqueting and Catering Award. “Developing an immersive food and beverage menu is no easy task. Thank you to MEA and the awards committee for continuing to recognize the critical role that F&B play in elevating the event experience.”
“The MCEC team pours their heart and soul into creating unforgettable experiences for guests. This award is a testament to their tireless efforts to push boundaries, raise the bar, and deliver memorable experiences for everyone who visits our centre” he added.
The next instalment of THE LUME Connection opening later this month is the largest representation of First Nations people and culture ever assembled. The menu will showcase Australian native and locally grown ingredients. Each dish carries a cultural legacy and extends the experience of the exhibition, playing a vital role in educating and connecting visitors to the oldest living culture in the world.
Maddison Devoy is Corporate Communications Specialist – Media at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
