Social Program

The Congress offers delegates the opportunity to mingle with old friends and establish new contacts or acquaintances away from the formality of the Congress. Event details below:

City of Sydney Welcome Reception

Date: Sunday 13 April 2008
Time: 1800 - 2000
Venue: Crystal Palace, Luna Park

Inclusive for Full Delegates
Additional Tickets $80.00

The opening social function will provide delegates with the perfect opportunity to meet with past acquaintances and friends in a relaxed environment. Guests will enjoy the stunning views of Sydney from the water whilst being transferred by boat from Convention Centre Wharf on Darling Harbour and then disembark at the famous Luna Park, Crystal Palace for the evenings festivities. A wealth of surprises have been organised throughout the night so make sure you don’t miss out!

SPECIAL NOTE: Luna Park is offering specially priced PIA tickets for families wishing to visit them during the day on 13 April - contact the Secretariat for details!

Transfers back to Darling Harbour will stop at the Congress official after party venue The Watershed Bar where you can continue to enjoy the delights of Sydney nights!

National Awards for Planning Excellence

Date: Monday 14 April 2008
Time: 1730 - 1900
Venue: Parkside Ballroom, Sydney Convention Centre

Inclusive for Full Delegates
Additional Tickets $68.00

The National Awards for Planning Excellence recognise and acknowledge quality, innovation and excellence in planning throughout Australia. The Awards promote the important role of the planning profession in the creation of Australia's built environment, and stimulate public awareness of good planning.

Following the Awards Ceremony two options are on offer to you (see below), these options should be booked in advance, however check with the Conference Secretariat for availability.

Mystery Dinners

Date: Monday 14 April 2008
Time: 1900 - late
Venue: Mystery

Tickets: Options 1 - $45.00
            Options 2 - $65.00

This is your opportunity to experience some of Sydney's finest restaurants. Delegates who have registered to attend the Mystery Dinners will receive their tickets upon registration.

Coaches depart from Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre at 1900 sharp. Guests are required to make their own way back to their hotels at the conclusion of the night.

The Rocks Historic Hotel Tour

Date: Monday 14 April 2008
Time: 1900 - late
Venue: Various Hotels around The Rocks

Ticket: $50.00

This evening is your chance to relax and enjoy the historic and architecturally rich Rocks district in the company of friends old and new, whilst enjoying some of Sydney's oldest pubs and enjoying some of the many choices of NSW beers and wine!

Coaches depart from Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre at 1900 sharp. Guests are required to make their own way back to their hotels at the conclusion of the night.

Urban Pacific Gala Dinner

Date: Tuesday 15 April 2008
Time: 1900 - 2300
Venue: Parkside Ballroom, Sydney Convention Centre

Cost: Inclusive for Full Delegates
Additional Ticket: $140.00

Celebrate the social highlight of the 2008 National Congress in style at the Urban Pacific Gala Dinner. Delegates will dine on a sumptuous menu of fresh produce and dance the night away with local show stopping band Enormous Horns.