It’s that time of the year again! Nominations are officially open for the prestigious 2024 Venue Industry Awards. As the premier Awards program for the venue management industry in the Asia-Pacific region, these Awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding individuals who contribute to the success and innovation of our industry.
Recognising Excellence Across Multiple Categories
The Venue Industry Awards honour the best of the best across several categories:
- Venue Professional of the Year, sponsored by Ross Video
- Allied Professional of the Year, sponsored by PBM Safety
- Young Achiever of the Year for under 30s, sponsored by Momentus Technologies
Our industry is unique and draws to it some incredible individuals who are passionate about what they do. From memorable moments for their patrons to iconic events that form part of our nation’s culture and history, these are a talented group and we love to celebrate them.
A Glimpse Into the Awards’ Legacy
With a rich history of recognising leaders, game changers, and innovators, the Venue Industry Awards are a testament to the achievements of our industry’s brightest stars. Each award is bestowed based on the nominees’ accomplishments over the past 12 months, reflecting their ongoing commitment to excellence.
Spotlight on a Past Winner: Matilda Dwyer
In 2023, Matilda Dwyer, Ticketing Services Manager at Theatre Royal Sydney, was honoured with the Young Achiever of the Year Award. We had the pleasure of catching up with Matilda to learn more about her journey and the impact of winning the award.
VMA: What have you been up to since winning the Young Achiever of the Year Award in 2023?
Matilda: I am still working at Theatre Royal Sydney and at the end of January we closed TINA – The Tina Turner Musical which had only just opened when I attended Congress and the Awards Presentation last year. It was strange to see TINA leave the building after such a long run, but I am excited for the 2024 (and beyond) that we have ahead of us. I have also been part of the VMA 2024 Congress Organising Committee which has been a new challenge and definitely opened my eyes to what it takes to organise such an event.
VMA: What did it mean to you personally and professionally to win the award?
Matilda: Winning this award cemented the idea for me that everything happens for a reason. Four years ago, I was working at a theatre in London when the pandemic shut down the West End and then the world. I came back to Australia not knowing if the industry would ever recover, or if I would still have a place in it if it did. To have found a company to work for and a role I love, and also be recognised by industry peers, was a wonderful feeling and has really energised me to work harder to keep bringing audiences the experiences they are passionate about.
VMA: What advice would you give to other young professionals aspiring to make a mark in the industry, based on your own journey and achievements thus far?
Matilda: My advice would be to keep doing what you love. I have loved live theatre for as long as I can remember, but I didn’t know Ticketing Services Manager was even a job until I became one. I just knew if I kept trying things out, and working in and amongst this industry I would find the role for me. I have continued to have hobbies and activities outside of work that I get excited about and remain active within my local community theatre group (Willoughby Theatre Company). I find that having other things to do, other people to learn from, and exposure to new experiences, puts you in a wonderful position to offer new perspectives and ideas at work.
VMA: What would you say to your peers to encourage them to nominate a deserving friend or colleague for an award this year?
Matilda: Do it! Actors get the curtain call, musicians get an encore, sports teams get a lap of honour but there are not many ways we can show the hardworking behind-the-scenes members of the events and venues industry our appreciation. Being nominated for an award could be the motivation someone needs to start a new project, it could be a timely reminder of why they got into this business in the first place or the encouragement they need to continue to grow in the field. Supporting one another and being encouraging of each other’s success is key to building an industry that people want to be a part of.
Nominate Now!
Now is your chance to recognise the hard work and dedication of your colleagues and friends. Click here to nominate them for a Venue Industry Award today. Join us in celebrating excellence and innovation in the venue management industry. Together, let’s honour those who continue to raise the bar and inspire others to do the same.