The Eastside Rooms to Host ABPCO Festival of Learning | A Celebration of Collaboration, Learning and Innovation

At The Eastside Rooms, we’re thrilled to host this year’s ABPCO Festival of Learning on April 29, with the newly introduced Technology Showcase taking place the evening before. This prestigious event, aimed at bringing together the entire association events industry, represents the perfect intersection of collaboration, education, and innovation—values we hold dear.  We interviewed Heather Lishman (ABPCO Association Director) and Pauline Beatie (ABPCO Co-chair) recently during one of our podcasts to learn more.

A Platform for Industry Learning and Collaboration

The ABPCO Festival of Learning has grown significantly since its inception in 2021. As Heather and Pauline explained in our latest episode of the Eventful Encounters. The Festival was designed to create a space for learning and networking that brings together professional conference organisers (PCOs), suppliers, venues and other industry stakeholders. By fostering inclusivity, the Festival ensures every voice is heard and every perspective shared, leading to meaningful collaborations and advancements across the association events sector.

The event’s agenda, meticulously curated by a task force of industry professionals, highlights key trends, challenges, and opportunities in the sector. Sessions range from panel discussions featuring PCOs sharing best practices to quick-fire TED-style talks, ensuring dynamic and engaging learning experiences.

A Unique Focus on Innovation

This year, the festival is taking innovation to new heights with the introduction of the Technology Showcase. Taking place the evening before the main event, this hands-on exhibition will allow attendees to explore the latest event technologies. From gamification tools to advanced AI and AV solutions. Exhibitors will provide practical demonstrations, ensuring participants leave inspired and informed about new possibilities for their own events.

As Heather notes, “We want to provide our members with the opportunity to experience innovative tools firsthand and consider how they can elevate their own event planning.”

Sustainability and Venue Excellence

Sustainability remains a key consideration for the ABPCO Festival of Learning. The festival team has committed to measuring its carbon footprint and implementing actionable recommendations for improvement. As a venue recognised with Green Meeting Silver status, The Eastside Rooms aligns perfectly with these goals. Our commitment to reducing environmental impact. Combined with our state-of-the-art facilities, makes us the ideal partner for this forward-thinking event.

Networking That Goes Beyond Business

One of the festival’s standout features is its ability to create a true sense of community. Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about forming meaningful connections. As Pauline explains, “ABPCO events always bring people together, whether through a shared commitment to learning or a desire to uplift the industry as a whole.”

Looking Ahead

The Eastside Rooms team is proud to host such an impactful event and contribute to the Festival’s ongoing success. Leanne Bladen, our Director of Sales, sums it up best: “We’re delighted to be hosting the ABPCO Festival of Learning this year. It’s an incredible event that showcases the best of what our industry has to offer, from innovation and sustainability to collaboration and community spirit.”

Whether you’re attending the Festival for the first time or returning to reconnect with peers, we look forward to welcoming you to The Eastside Rooms this April.