CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html><html class="scroll-smooth" lang="en"><head><meta charSet="utf-8"/><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width"/><title>Community Partnerships | Our Impact | MCEC</title><meta name="description" content="We're big on corporate social responsibility. MCEC partners with OzHarvest, Good Friday Appeal and Launch Housing. Learn more. "/><meta name="keywords" content="corporate social responsibility, OzHarvest, Good Friday Appeal, Launch Housing, community partners, community partnerships"/><link rel="canonical" href="https://www.mcec.com.au/our-impact/community-partnerships"/><meta property="og:site_name" content="Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre"/><meta property="og:title" content="Community Partnerships | Our Impact"/><meta property="og:description" content="We're big on corporate social responsibility. MCEC partners with OzHarvest, Good Friday Appeal and Launch Housing. Learn more. "/><meta property="og:type" content="website"/><meta property="og:url" content="https://www.mcec.com.au/our-impact/community-partnerships"/><meta property="og:image" content="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/6F8tgMHIrzOp0p0pYwl5g/a992145fb7fe56b0db5fbff942148254/community-partnership_gfa.jpg"/><meta property="og:image:width" content="1200"/><meta property="og:image:height" content="630"/><meta name="next-head-count" content="14"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="57x57" href="/apple-touch-icon-57x57.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="60x60" href="/apple-touch-icon-60x60.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="72x72" href="/apple-touch-icon-72x72.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="76x76" href="/apple-touch-icon-76x76.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="114x114" href="/apple-touch-icon-114x114.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="120x120" href="/apple-touch-icon-120x120.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="144x144" href="/apple-touch-icon-144x144.png"/><link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="152x152" href="/apple-touch-icon-152x152.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="32x32" href="/favicon-32x32.png"/><link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="16x16" href="/favicon-16x16.png"/><link rel="manifest" href="/site.webmanifest"/><meta name="msapplication-TileColor" content="#ffffff"/><meta name="theme-color" content="#ffffff"/><link data-next-font="" rel="preconnect" href="/" crossorigin="anonymous"/><link rel="preload" href="/_next/static/css/f8f15f4f8b6ecc68.css" as="style" crossorigin=""/><link rel="stylesheet" href="/_next/static/css/f8f15f4f8b6ecc68.css" crossorigin="" data-n-g=""/><noscript data-n-css=""></noscript><script defer="" crossorigin="" nomodule="" src="/_next/static/chunks/polyfills-c67a75d1b6f99dc8.js"></script><script defer="" src="/_next/static/chunks/619.21fb6bed3da75177.js" crossorigin=""></script><script defer="" src="/_next/static/chunks/610.a4ee5b98bbfa07f3.js" crossorigin=""></script><script defer="" src="/_next/static/chunks/302.7842d1399eec4af4.js" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/webpack-12e950d68e8bf5b3.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/framework-98741467467a0898.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/main-d0d4a9addd943b1c.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/pages/_app-49853bc0e1126500.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/306-83ae6f1b0d9a176f.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/251-05c5a2371e0987a8.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/370-1abd4e8215368db0.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/chunks/pages/%5B...slug%5D-e299e205629aa16d.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/GMESqun_xNctPDivp3mJ_/_buildManifest.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script><script src="/_next/static/GMESqun_xNctPDivp3mJ_/_ssgManifest.js" defer="" crossorigin=""></script></head><body><noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-WV7D5CR" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript><div id="__next"><section class="text-l fixed top-0 left-0 z-50 flex h-screen w-screen items-center justify-center bg-black bg-opacity-[0.92] px-6 transition-all duration-1000 ease-in-out md:px-10 translate-y-full opacity-0"><div class="flex flex-col items-center"><p class="max-w-[44.5rem] text-white">Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.</p><div><button class="hover:text-primary-500 text-l text-white" type="button" aria-label="Press enter to accept the acknowledgement" tabindex="0" id=""><div class="h-8 w-8 origin-center rotate-180 mt-[3.75rem]"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 32 32" fill="none"><path d="M24 14.001L16 6.00098L8 14.001" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path><path d="M16 6.00098L16 26.001" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></div></button></div></div></section><header class="sticky top-0 z-[13] bg-white"><nav class="h-full transition-all duration-300 ease-in-out h-[4.5rem] md:h-[6.25rem]"><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto flex h-full w-full items-center justify-between"><a class="cursor:pointer underline" href="/"><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/333o20pmTfyIrFjumuke6A/d2e034e0f16bd9f4f21dba53bc0c1c93/mcec-logo-mobile.svg" alt="MCEC" class="h-10 md:h-14 md:hidden" width="40" height="40"/><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/UNqyFkanfGLtjiGFMGzjZ/53a24dc650217f71c2cb613fa47e3820/Frame.svg" alt="MCEC" class="h-10 md:h-14 hidden md:block" width="132" height="56"/></a><div class="flex items-center space-x-11 text-black"><button class="hover:text-primary-500" aria-label="Search"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="33" height="33" viewBox="0 0 33 33" fill="none"><circle cx="11" cy="11" r="10" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></circle><path d="M32 32L18 18" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></button><a class="cursor:pointer inline-flex hidden border-2 px-8 py-4 text-l md:block border-black bg-black font-normal text-white hover:bg-transparent hover:text-black focus:border-black" href="/contact-us">Contact us</a><button type="button" aria-label="Menu" class="group flex items-center text-l"><span class="group-hover:text-primary-500 hidden pr-4 md:block">Menu</span><svg class="group-hover:fill-primary-500" width="40" height="12" viewBox="0 0 40 12" fill="currentColor" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><rect width="24" height="2" fill="inherit"></rect><rect y="10" width="40" height="2" fill="inherit"></rect></svg></button></div></div></div></nav></header><main class="relative z-[1] min-h-screen min-w-0 bg-white"><section class="relative flex min-h-[9rem] items-center md:min-h-[12rem] lg:min-h-[34rem] bg-accent-red"><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20 w-full"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto h-full"><div class="flex h-full items-center py-12 md:py-16 lg:max-w-[45%] lg:py-[7rem]"><div class="flex flex-col items-start space-y-1 lg:space-y-2 text-white"><h1 class="break-words font-mono text-4xl md:text-5xl l:text-6xl 2xl:text-7xl mb-4 md:mb-6">Community partnerships</h1></div></div></div></div><span class="absolute right-0 my-auto block hidden h-full w-1/2 bg-cover bg-no-repeat lg:block" style="background-image:url(data:image/svg+xml;base64,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)"></span></section><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto"><div class="flex py-4 md:py-6"><div class="flex items-center sm:hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 mx-2 flex text-sm underline first:ml-0" href="/our-impact"><div class="mr-2"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="24" height="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none"><path d="M10 6L4 12L10 18" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="1"></path><path d="M4 12H20" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="1"></path></svg></div>Back to Our impact</a></div><div class="hidden items-center sm:flex"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 mx-2 flex text-sm underline first:ml-0" href="/">Home</a>|<a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 mx-2 flex text-sm underline first:ml-0" href="/our-impact">Our impact</a>|<span class="ml-2 text-sm">Community partnerships</span></div></div></div></div><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto flex w-full flex-col py-10 md:py-16 lg:flex-row lg:py-20"><div class="flex w-full flex-col items-start justify-between lg:flex-row"><p class="mb-6 break-words text-l md:mb-8 lg:text-xl lg:w-1/2 lg:pr-5">We strive to make a positive impact for our customers, the environment and all Victorians. With this vision in mind, MCEC partners with leading Australian charities who share our values of sustainability, inclusivity and unconventional thinking. Together, we innovate and create meaningful change. </p></div></div></div><section class="flex w-full flex-col-reverse lg:h-full lg:min-h-[43.25rem] bg-accent-black text-accent-black lg:flex-row-reverse"><div class="flex lg:w-1/2"><div class="half-container flex flex-col items-start justify-center px-4 pt-10 pb-12 md:px-6 md:pt-14 md:pb-16 lg:px-20 lg:py-50 4xl:pr-0"><div class="mb-6 md:mb-8 lg:mb-10"><section class="text-l mb-0 lg:text-xl"><h3 class="break-words font-mono text-3xl font-medium md:text-4xl lg:text-5xl mb-4 md:mb-6 lg:mb-8">Good Friday Appeal </h3><p class="mb-6">Since 1931, the Good Friday Appeal (GFA) has raised money to help The Royal Children's Hospital provide children with world-leading care.</p><p class="mb-6">For 10 years, MCEC has supported the event by donating millions in venue hire, tech, catering, resources and volunteering time.</p><p class="mb-6">Victoria’s 93rd GFA at MCEC raised an incredible record-breaking $23 million for the hospital and welcomed over 94,000 visitors. </p></section></div><a href="http://www.goodfridayappeal.com.au" class="cursor:pointer inline-flex border-2 px-8 py-4 text-l font-semibold border-white bg-white text-black hover:bg-transparent hover:text-white min-w-[13.5rem] items-center justify-center" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="mr-2">Explore more at goodfridayappeal.com.au</span><div class=""><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="32" height="32" viewBox="0 0 32 32" fill="none"><path d="M18 24L26 16L18 8" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path><path d="M26 16L6 16" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></div></a></div></div><figure class="h-[13.25rem] w-full md:h-[27rem] lg:h-initial lg:w-1/2"><div class="relative h-full w-full"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;display:block;overflow:hidden;width:initial;height:initial;background:none;opacity:1;border:0;margin:0;padding:0;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0"><img alt="Crowd of people walking around foyer with a Good Friday Appeal purple sign in the centre. " src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover"/><noscript><img alt="Crowd of people walking around foyer with a Good Friday Appeal purple sign in the centre. " loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover" src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/6F8tgMHIrzOp0p0pYwl5g/a992145fb7fe56b0db5fbff942148254/community-partnership_gfa.jpg"/></noscript></span></div></figure></section><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto my-10 md:my-16 l:my-30"><section class="l:flex-row flex h-full w-full flex-col l:flex-row-reverse"><div class="l:w-1/2 flex w-full"><div class="l:half-container l:ml-auto w-full"><div class="relative mx-0 l:sticky l:top-20"><div class="mb-8 block md:mb-10 l:hidden"><h2 class="break-words font-mono text-3xl font-medium md:text-4xl lg:text-5xl 2xl:text-6xl mb-4 md:mb-6">Our partners</h2></div><div class="relative overflow-hidden object-fill h-96 w-full l:h-[52.25rem]"><div class="static h-full w-full"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;display:block;overflow:hidden;width:initial;height:initial;background:none;opacity:1;border:0;margin:0;padding:0;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0"><img alt="community-partnership_our-partners" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover"/><noscript><img alt="community-partnership_our-partners" loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover" src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/4K44W7CqBjYCNtdbMnHxSS/56be0352cae2698717f659bd955d578a/community-partnership_our-partners.jpg"/></noscript></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="l:w-1/2 flex w-full"><div class="l:half-container l:ml-auto w-full"><div class="mx-0 l:mr-20 xl:mr-30"><div class="hidden l:block"><h2 class="break-words font-mono text-3xl font-medium md:text-4xl lg:text-5xl 2xl:text-6xl mb-4 md:mb-6">Our partners</h2></div><ul class="bg-accent-white text-accent-white my-8 space-y-8 md:my-10 md:space-y-10 l:my-16 l:space-y-12"><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="OzHarvest" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">OzHarvest</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, OzHarvest delivers excess food to more than 1,300 charities in Australia.</p><p class="mb-6">MCEC is proud to be an ‘Awesome Partner’ of OzHarvest and has supported this incredible organisation since 2014 through food donations and workplace giving.</p><p class="mb-6">Since 2022, MCEC has provided a home for OzHarvest's Cooking for a Cause program in Melbourne and has donated up to $130,000 in resources and services. </p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://www.ozharvest.org/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at ozharvest.org </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="Starlight Children's Foundation" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">Starlight Children's Foundation</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">Starlight's mission is to brighten the lives of seriously ill children and their families. Their annual Starlight Five Chefs Dinner raises vital funds to support these efforts. </p><p class="mb-6">Since 2012, we have been honoured to support the Starlight Children's Foundation event in Melbourne. MCEC donates over $200,000 annually in event space, food and beverages, technology, and marketing. </p><p class="mb-6">In 2023, the Five Chefs Dinner raised enough funds to support Starlight's hospital programs for over two months and grant 26 life-changing Starlight Wishes. </p><p class="mb-6">Our kitchen has proudly hosted many leading Victorian chefs who come together to create five-course degustation's for this special event. The dinner unites MCEC's kitchen with some of the country's top culinary leaders to collaborate for a very special cause. </p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://starlight.org.au/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at starlight.org.au </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="Variety Australia, the Children's Charity" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">Variety Australia, the Children's Charity</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">Variety Australia, the Children's Charity, supports children and families facing challenges due to sickness, disadvantage, or special needs. As our longest-standing community partner, we proudly hold the Variety Top Hat Partner title.</p><p class="mb-6">Since 1997, we have partnered with Variety and hosted their annual Children's Christmas Party 25 times. This event welcomes over 5,000 children and their carers to our venue each year.</p><p class="mb-6">MCEC proudly donates to the event space, and hundreds of volunteers come together to create an inclusive day filled with fun and festivities. </p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://www.variety.org.au/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at variety.org.au </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="The Yarra Riverkeeper Association" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">The Yarra Riverkeeper Association</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">The Yarra Riverkeeper Association advocates for the health of the Yarra/Birrarung, the river that runs past our venue.</p><p class="mb-6">Working with local communities, government and Traditional Owners, the non-for-profit, community-based organisation aims to restore biodiversity and cultural significance to the river.</p><p class="mb-6">MCEC is a proud Platypus Partner of the YRKA, supporting conservation efforts and providing engagement opportunities for our employees.</p><p class="mb-6">Together, we work to build stronger connections and a sustainable future for the Yarra/Birrarung.</p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://yarrariver.org.au/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at yarrariver.org.au </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="Banksia Foundation" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">Banksia Foundation</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">The Banksia Foundation's National Banksia Sustainability Awards are Australia's most prestigious sustainability awards, celebrating innovative individuals and their contributions.</p><p class="mb-6">MCEC is proud to be the home of the National Banksia Sustainability Awards, hosting and sponsoring the event for the third year in 2024. Sponsoring the Circular Economy Award reaffirms our commitment to sustainability and our dedication to positively impacting our planet.</p><p class="mb-6">Our National Banksia Sustainability Awards sponsorship illustrates our ongoing efforts to create a sustainable future. We aim to continue leading by example, demonstrating that businesses can thrive while prioritising social and environmental responsibility.</p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://banksiafdn.com/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at banksiafdn.com </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="Melbourne Skyfarm" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">Melbourne Skyfarm</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">MCEC's rooftop car park in Melbourne CBD has been transformed into a thriving urban oasis.</p><p class="mb-6">Melbourne Skyfarm sits atop the Siddeley Street rooftop car park, showcasing sustainable and regenerative farming, ethical food production, and captivating educational experiences.</p><p class="mb-6">In 2023, this innovative urban farm donated an impressive 837 kg (1,674 meals) of fresh produce to our food charity partner, OzHarvest, making a tangible difference in our community. </p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://www.melbourneskyfarm.com.au/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at melbourneskyfarm.com.au </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li><li><button class="group flex w-full items-center justify-between space-x-3" type="button" aria-label="Bright Sparqe" tabindex="0" id=""><h5 class="break-words font-mono text-2xl font-medium lg:text-3xl text-left">Bright Sparqe</h5><div class="h-6 w-6 shrink-0 transition-transform duration-500 ease-in-out text-primary-500"><svg class="h-full w-full" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2.05093 5.63574L0.636719 7.04996L11.9504 18.3637L12 18.3141L12.0497 18.3638L23.3634 7.05011L21.9492 5.63589L12.0002 15.585L2.05093 5.63574Z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg></div></button><div style="max-height:0px" class="transition-max-height overflow-hidden duration-500 ease-in-out"><div style="visibility:collapse" class="text-justify text-base mt-4 md:mt-6 -mb-6 transition-visibility duration-500 ease-in-out"><section class="text-l -mb-6 break-words text-left md:-mb-1 lg:max-w-screen-m l:mb-0"><p class="mb-6">MCEC has partnered with Bright Sparqe to donate leftover and unwanted items to the local community.</p><p class="mb-6">Since joining the platform in mid-2020, we have donated over 11,000 items that would have otherwise gone to landfill. </p><p class="mb-6"><a href="https://www.brightsparqe.org/" class="cursor:pointer underline text-primary-700 hover:text-black" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">Learn more at brightsparqe.org </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></li></ul></div></div></div></section></div></div><section class="flex w-full flex-col-reverse lg:h-full lg:min-h-[43.25rem] bg-accent-red text-accent-red lg:flex-row-reverse"><div class="flex lg:w-1/2"><div class="half-container flex flex-col items-start justify-center px-4 pt-10 pb-12 md:px-6 md:pt-14 md:pb-16 lg:px-20 lg:py-50 4xl:pr-0"><div class="mb-6 md:mb-8 lg:mb-10"><section class="text-l mb-0 lg:text-xl"><h3 class="break-words font-mono text-3xl font-medium md:text-4xl lg:text-5xl mb-4 md:mb-6 lg:mb-8">Team building with purpose</h3><p class="mb-6">We’re proud to provide a home for OzHarvest's Cooking for a Cause program - a truly unique team building experience. </p><p class="mb-6">Join OzHarvest chefs to rescue ingredients into gourmet meals that support vulnerable communities. All the while you’ll learn zero-waste cooking skills to take home.</p><p class="mb-6">The cost is $175 per person and it’s tax-deductible. </p></section></div><a href="https://www.ozharvest.org/cooking-for-a-cause/book-melbourne/" class="cursor:pointer inline-flex border-2 px-8 py-4 text-l font-semibold border-white bg-white text-black hover:bg-transparent hover:text-white min-w-[13.5rem] items-center justify-center" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="mr-2">Get involved</span><div class=""><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="32" height="32" viewBox="0 0 32 32" fill="none"><path d="M18 24L26 16L18 8" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path><path d="M26 16L6 16" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></div></a></div></div><figure class="h-[13.25rem] w-full md:h-[27rem] lg:h-initial lg:w-1/2"><div class="relative h-full w-full"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;display:block;overflow:hidden;width:initial;height:initial;background:none;opacity:1;border:0;margin:0;padding:0;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0"><img alt="Two woman smile at camera wearing yellow t-shirts. They are preparing food at a table. One woman is holding a bunch of green herbs. More people are in the background also wearing yellow t-shirts. " src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover"/><noscript><img alt="Two woman smile at camera wearing yellow t-shirts. They are preparing food at a table. One woman is holding a bunch of green herbs. More people are in the background also wearing yellow t-shirts. " loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover" src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/266zRfopxEGG4r7aqKT5ux/e8553c51a66edf4effc26f0823638905/community-partnership_team-building.jpg"/></noscript></span></div></figure></section><section class="flex w-full flex-col-reverse lg:h-full lg:min-h-[43.25rem] bg-accent-red text-accent-red lg:flex-row"><div class="flex lg:w-1/2"><div class="half-container flex flex-col items-start justify-center px-4 pt-10 pb-12 md:px-6 md:pt-14 md:pb-16 lg:px-20 lg:py-50 lg:ml-auto"><div><section class="text-l mb-0 lg:text-xl"><h3 class="break-words font-mono text-3xl font-medium md:text-4xl lg:text-5xl mb-4 md:mb-6 lg:mb-8">Make an impact together</h3><p class="mb-6">Be part of something meaningful. Connect with our Sustainability and Impact team to explore partnership opportunities that bring positive change to our community and beyond.</p><p class="mb-6">Let’s connect; reach out to <a class="cursor:pointer underline text-white hover:text-link-hover-red" href="mailto:jwhattam@mcec.com.au"><span class="text-decoration-inherit inline-flex items-center"><span class="mr-1">jwhattam@mcec.com.au </span><svg class="inline" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="14" viewBox="0 0 14 14" fill="none"><path fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" d="M2 2H6V0H2C0.895431 0 0 0.89543 0 2V12C0 13.1046 0.89543 14 2 14H12C13.1046 14 14 13.1046 14 12V8H12V12H2L2 2ZM12 6H13H14V2V1V0H13H12H8V1V2H12V6Z" fill="currentColor"></path><path d="M13 1L5 9" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></span></a></p></section></div></div></div><figure class="h-[13.25rem] w-full md:h-[27rem] lg:h-initial lg:w-1/2"><div class="relative h-full w-full"><span style="box-sizing:border-box;display:block;overflow:hidden;width:initial;height:initial;background:none;opacity:1;border:0;margin:0;padding:0;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0"><img alt="Woman sitting and leaning towards a computer on a table, in discussion with another person off screen. She wears a dark sweater and has her hair out. " src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover"/><noscript><img alt="Woman sitting and leaning towards a computer on a table, in discussion with another person off screen. She wears a dark sweater and has her hair out. " loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-nimg="fill" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover" src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/1qk0Q1P2iuGzG6VPkhwsgK/c9f589c9d82f4a855828cef9242998d8/Rich_text__wide___1_.jpg"/></noscript></span></div></figure></section></main><footer class="sticky bottom-0 z-0 max-h-screen bg-black text-white"><div class="max-h-full bg-black" style="will-change:opacity"><div class="mx-4 h-full md:mx-6 lg:mx-20"><div class="lg:container lg:mx-auto max-h-full overflow-auto py-12 lg:py-20 lg:pt-28"><div class="mb-8 grid grid-cols-1 md:grid-cols-2 md:gap-6 lg:mb-48"><div class="col-span-2 mb-12 lg:mb-20"><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/5VsNGrSgmBHiqzJ8pXAY5Z/1a4a420db97ae052d83d8e833220dd55/Logo.svg" alt="Acknowledgement of Country" class="h-10 md:h-14 md:hidden" width="40" height="40"/><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/7EejZDXOysvTw0wqKvsS0z/f56d21d25e84ed740024172375ffd866/Frame_394.svg" alt="Acknowledgement of Country" class="h-10 md:h-14 hidden md:block" width="132" height="56"/></div><div class="col-span-2 lg:col-span-1"><div class="lg:max-w-xl"><p class="mb-4 font-semibold lg:text-l">Acknowledgement of Country</p><p class="text-sm">Built on the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra River), Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC. We recognise the ongoing significance of the Birrarung to Traditional Owners as a life source and a meeting place for millennia and seek to honour this long-standing tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands.</p></div></div><div class="col-span-2 row-span-full mb-16 md:space-y-8 lg:col-span-1 lg:row-span-2 lg:mb-0"><ul class="grid grid-rows-5 gap-8 md:grid-flow-col"><li class="overflow-hidden"><a href="https://forms.mcec.com.au/team/mcec/newsletter-subscription" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Subscribe</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/whats-on">What’s on</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/plan-your-visit">Plan your visit</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/who-we-are">Who we are</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/our-impact">Our impact</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/work-with-us">Work with us</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/event-planning-resources">Event planning resources</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" href="/event-planning-resources/venue-induction">Venue induction</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a href="https://forms.mcec.com.au/team/mcec/student-tour-request" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Student tours</a></li><li class="overflow-hidden"><a href="https://forms.mcec.com.au/team/mcec/film-and-photography-request" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 text-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Film and photography</a></li></ul></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-1 place-content-start gap-6 text-sm md:grid-cols-4 lg:grid-cols-8"><ul class="col-span-4 block justify-start md:flex md:flex-wrap"><li class="mt-6 mr-6"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 underline" href="/who-we-are/corporate-and-legal">Corporate and legal</a></li><li class="mt-6 mr-6"><a class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-500 underline" href="/event-planning-resources/emergency-procedures">Emergency procedures</a></li><li class="mt-6">© 2024 Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre</li></ul><ul class="flex flex-wrap items-center row-span-full col-span-3 md:row-span-1"><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcec/" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC Instagram</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#instagram"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/themcec/" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC Facebook</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#facebook"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com.au/MelbConventionExhibitionCentre/" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="h-[1.6rem] w-[1.6rem] h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC Pinterest</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#pinterest"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/themcec" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC LinkedIn</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#linkedin"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@melbconventioncentre?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&utm_source=Organic_Social&utm_medium=TikTok&utm_campaign=Website_Icon" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC Tik Tok</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#tikTok"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/MCECAustralia" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-5" role="img"><title>MCEC Youtube</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#youtube"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attraction_Review-g255100-d1419695-Reviews-Melbourne_Convention_and_Exhibition_Centre-Melbourne_Victoria.html" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-5" role="img"><title>MCEC Trip Advisor</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#tripAdvisor"></use></svg></a></li><li class="mt-4 mr-4"><a href="https://x.com/mcec" class="cursor:pointer hover:text-primary-700 bg-accent-white text-accent-white rounded-full inline-flex items-center justify-center w-12 h-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><svg class="w-6 h-6" role="img"><title>MCEC Twitter</title><use xlink:href="/_next/static/media/brands-mono.ff148fc3.svg#twitter"></use></svg></a></li></ul><button class="hover:text-primary-500 col-span-1 mt-6 flex items-center place-self-start whitespace-nowrap text-l text-white md:place-self-end" type="button" aria-label="Back to top" tabindex="0" id=""><div class="h-8 w-8 mr-2"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 32 32" fill="none"><path d="M24 14.001L16 6.00098L8 14.001" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path><path d="M16 6.00098L16 26.001" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2"></path></svg></div><span>Back to top</span></button></div></div></div></div></footer></div><script id="__NEXT_DATA__" type="application/json" crossorigin="">{"props":{"pageProps":{"id":"5HkdDMuwnrzLdB42Hnyxbj","pageType":"landingPage","title":"Community partnerships","locale":"en","slug":"/our-impact/community-partnerships","alternates":[],"seo":{"title":"Community Partnerships | Our Impact","description":"We're big on corporate social responsibility. MCEC partners with OzHarvest, Good Friday Appeal and Launch Housing. Learn more. ","keywords":"corporate social responsibility, OzHarvest, Good Friday Appeal, Launch Housing, community partners, community partnerships","image":{"url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/6F8tgMHIrzOp0p0pYwl5g/a992145fb7fe56b0db5fbff942148254/community-partnership_gfa.jpg","alt":"Crowd of people walking around foyer with a Good Friday Appeal purple sign in the centre. ","contentType":"image/jpeg","width":1920,"height":1495},"noIndex":false,"url":"/our-impact/community-partnerships"},"anchorMenu":[],"heroBanner":{"heading":"Community partnerships","backgroundColour":"red","shapeColour":"pink","shape":"Z"},"breadcrumbLinks":[{"title":"Our impact","href":"/our-impact"},{"title":"Community partnerships","href":"/our-impact/community-partnerships"}],"components":[{"twoColumnText":{"text":"We strive to make a positive impact for our customers, the environment and all Victorians. \n\nWith this vision in mind, MCEC partners with leading Australian charities who share our values of sustainability, inclusivity and unconventional thinking. \n\nTogether, we innovate and create meaningful change. "}},{"richTextSection":{"node":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"h3","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Good Friday Appeal ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Since 1931, the Good Friday Appeal (GFA) has raised money to help The Royal Children's Hospital provide children with world-leading care.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"For 10 years, MCEC has supported the event by donating millions in venue hire, tech, catering, resources and volunteering time.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Victoria’s 93rd GFA at MCEC raised an incredible record-breaking $23 million for the hospital and welcomed over 94,000 visitors. ","marks":[]}]}]},"image":{"url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/6F8tgMHIrzOp0p0pYwl5g/a992145fb7fe56b0db5fbff942148254/community-partnership_gfa.jpg","alt":"Crowd of people walking around foyer with a Good Friday Appeal purple sign in the centre. ","contentType":"image/jpeg","width":1920,"height":1495},"imageAlignment":"left","backgroundColor":"black","link":{"title":"Explore more at goodfridayappeal.com.au","href":"http://www.goodfridayappeal.com.au"}}},{"accordion":{"title":"Our partners","image":{"url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/4K44W7CqBjYCNtdbMnHxSS/56be0352cae2698717f659bd955d578a/community-partnership_our-partners.jpg","alt":"community-partnership_our-partners","contentType":"image/jpeg","width":1640,"height":1640},"imageAlignment":"right","items":[{"heading":"OzHarvest","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Australia’s leading food rescue organisation, OzHarvest delivers excess food to more than 1,300 charities in Australia.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC is proud to be an ‘Awesome Partner’ of OzHarvest and has supported this incredible organisation since 2014 through food donations and workplace giving.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Since 2022, MCEC has provided a home for OzHarvest's Cooking for a Cause program in Melbourne and has donated up to $130,000 in resources and services. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://www.ozharvest.org/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at ozharvest.org","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"Starlight Children's Foundation","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Starlight's mission is to brighten the lives of seriously ill children and their families. Their annual Starlight Five Chefs Dinner raises vital funds to support these efforts. \r","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Since 2012, we have been honoured to support the Starlight Children's Foundation event in Melbourne. MCEC donates over $200,000 annually in event space, food and beverages, technology, and marketing. \r","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"In 2023, the Five Chefs Dinner raised enough funds to support Starlight's hospital programs for over two months and grant 26 life-changing Starlight Wishes. \r","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Our kitchen has proudly hosted many leading Victorian chefs who come together to create five-course degustation's for this special event. The dinner unites MCEC's kitchen with some of the country's top culinary leaders to collaborate for a very special cause. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://starlight.org.au/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at starlight.org.au","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"Variety Australia, the Children's Charity","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Variety Australia, the Children's Charity, supports children and families facing challenges due to sickness, disadvantage, or special needs. As our longest-standing community partner, we proudly hold the Variety Top Hat Partner title.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Since 1997, we have partnered with Variety and hosted their annual Children's Christmas Party 25 times. This event welcomes over 5,000 children and their carers to our venue each year.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC proudly donates to the event space, and hundreds of volunteers come together to create an inclusive day filled with fun and festivities. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://www.variety.org.au/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at variety.org.au","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"The Yarra Riverkeeper Association","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"The Yarra Riverkeeper Association advocates for the health of the Yarra/Birrarung, the river that runs past our venue.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Working with local communities, government and Traditional Owners, the non-for-profit, community-based organisation aims to restore biodiversity and cultural significance to the river.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC is a proud Platypus Partner of the YRKA, supporting conservation efforts and providing engagement opportunities for our employees.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Together, we work to build stronger connections and a sustainable future for the Yarra/Birrarung.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://yarrariver.org.au/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at yarrariver.org.au","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"Banksia Foundation","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"The Banksia Foundation's National Banksia Sustainability Awards are Australia's most prestigious sustainability awards, celebrating innovative individuals and their contributions.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC is proud to be the home of the National Banksia Sustainability Awards, hosting and sponsoring the event for the third year in 2024. Sponsoring the Circular Economy Award reaffirms our commitment to sustainability and our dedication to positively impacting our planet.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Our National Banksia Sustainability Awards sponsorship illustrates our ongoing efforts to create a sustainable future. We aim to continue leading by example, demonstrating that businesses can thrive while prioritising social and environmental responsibility.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://banksiafdn.com/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at banksiafdn.com","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"Melbourne Skyfarm","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC's rooftop car park in Melbourne CBD has been transformed into a thriving urban oasis.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Melbourne Skyfarm sits atop the Siddeley Street rooftop car park, showcasing sustainable and regenerative farming, ethical food production, and captivating educational experiences.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"In 2023, this innovative urban farm donated an impressive 837 kg (1,674 meals) of fresh produce to our food charity partner, OzHarvest, making a tangible difference in our community. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://www.melbourneskyfarm.com.au/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at melbourneskyfarm.com.au","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}},{"heading":"Bright Sparqe","body":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"MCEC has partnered with Bright Sparqe to donate leftover and unwanted items to the local community.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Since joining the platform in mid-2020, we have donated over 11,000 items that would have otherwise gone to landfill. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"https://www.brightsparqe.org/","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Learn more at brightsparqe.org","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]}}]}},{"richTextSection":{"node":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"h3","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Team building with purpose","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"We’re proud to provide a home for OzHarvest's Cooking for a Cause program - a truly unique team building experience. ","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Join OzHarvest chefs to rescue ingredients into gourmet meals that support vulnerable communities. All the while you’ll learn zero-waste cooking skills to take home.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"The cost is $175 per person and it’s tax-deductible. ","marks":[]}]}]},"image":{"url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/266zRfopxEGG4r7aqKT5ux/e8553c51a66edf4effc26f0823638905/community-partnership_team-building.jpg","alt":"Two woman smile at camera wearing yellow t-shirts. They are preparing food at a table. One woman is holding a bunch of green herbs. More people are in the background also wearing yellow t-shirts. ","contentType":"image/jpeg","width":1825,"height":1825},"imageAlignment":"left","backgroundColor":"red","link":{"title":"Get involved","href":"https://www.ozharvest.org/cooking-for-a-cause/book-melbourne/"}}},{"richTextSection":{"node":{"type":"document","content":[{"type":"h3","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Make an impact together","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Be part of something meaningful. Connect with our Sustainability and Impact team to explore partnership opportunities that bring positive change to our community and beyond.","marks":[]}]},{"type":"p","content":[{"type":"text","value":"Let’s connect; reach out to ","marks":[]},{"type":"hyperlink","href":"mailto:jwhattam@mcec.com.au","content":[{"type":"text","value":"jwhattam@mcec.com.au","marks":[]}]},{"type":"text","value":"","marks":[]}]}]},"image":{"url":"https://images.ctfassets.net/mwqtes8188we/1qk0Q1P2iuGzG6VPkhwsgK/c9f589c9d82f4a855828cef9242998d8/Rich_text__wide___1_.jpg","alt":"Woman sitting and leaning towards a computer on a table, in discussion with another person off screen. She wears a dark sweater and has her hair out. ","contentType":"image/jpeg","width":1920,"height":1500},"imageAlignment":"right","backgroundColor":"red"}}]},"__N_SSG":true},"page":"/[...slug]","query":{"slug":["our-impact","community-partnerships"]},"buildId":"GMESqun_xNctPDivp3mJ_","isFallback":false,"dynamicIds":[1619,2610,3302],"gsp":true,"locale":"en","locales":["en"],"defaultLocale":"en","scriptLoader":[]}</script></body></html>