Kate Ford

Audio Visual Production Manager | Nyaal Banyul, Victorian Convention and Event Trust

We’re the powerhouse behind Victoria’s iconic event venues, drawing global audiences, showcasing local culture and driving innovation. At VCET, we transform events into destination-defining experiences. With over 30 years of event management expertise, the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) is the powerhouse behind two of Victoria’s most iconic venues. Who We Are | Two Iconic Venues. One Expert Team. Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre At MCEC, visionary ideas meet Melbourne’s signature culture. This is where the world’s thought leaders, creatives, and industry pioneers gather. From global summits to groundbreaking exhibitions, concerts to high-energy galas, MCEC is always ahead of the game. Blending trend setting hospitality, cutting-edge tech, and a commitment to sustainability to create experiences that leave people buzzing with inspiration. Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre Overlooking Corio Bay, Nyaal Banyul is a place of gathering, learning, and celebration. Set to open in 2026, it will feature a 1,000-seat theatre and 3,700 sqm of flexible event space, making it ideal for events of all sizes. Designed in collaboration with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Nyaal Banyul weaves storytelling into its architecture, honouring its cultural and natural landscape. Every part of the venue is designed to reflect the deep connection between culture, place and community. Trusted industry leaders With over 30 years of expertise, VCET delivers events that ignite ideas, attract investment and advance groundbreaking research and policy, helping position Victoria as a national and global leader in events.  Driving Victoria Forward As a key economic contributor, we generate $800 million annually in economic impact, employ nearly 1,000 people at peak times, and strengthen local businesses. Beyond events, we create lasting change, providing over $2 million of in kind support each year to initiatives championing children’s health, environmental sustainability, and food security. Our Values Our values are at the heart of everything we do. Guiding our actions, decisions, and the way we connect to help everyone feel like they belong. One team | Success comes from working and celebrating together. Own it, do it well | Do your best and get better every time. Respect | Respect each other and our customers. Our Community We actively support community initiatives through partnerships with leading Australian charities that align with our values of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. Each year, our community program contributes nearly $2 million to initiatives that create real impact. Acknowledgement of Country We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate our venues in Narrm and Djilang; the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Wadawurrung peoples of the Kulin Nations. We pay our respects to Elders of all First Nations communities and seek to honour the long-standing tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands. 
Justin M. Bolger - AVIXA

Senior Specialist, Digital Community, AVIXA

With a background in content strategy, brand management, and community building for global franchises like Star Wars and Star Trek, I’ve spent my career connecting people to the stories they love. At AVIXA, I’m doing the same—only now, the story is AV itself: how it connects, empowers, and transforms us. I’m especially drawn to the intersection of AV and pop culture, immersive tech, and storytelling. I’m here to help others unlock the potential of Xchange—whether it’s building their brand, expanding their reach, or just finding their people.
Richard Morrison

Director Technology Advisory , AECOM

Kostas Baxevanis

AV System Designer, TELMACO

Dana Jelter - AVIXA

Manager, Digital Content, AVIXA

As AVIXA's manager of editorial content, I bring to the role fifteen years of marketing experience and ten working predominantly in editorial and video content. I've spent many years in the entertainment industry working for Nickelodeon, Lucasfilm, Disney, and even a small theater in the heart of Florence, Italy. I love great stories and finding the right way to tell them. I am also a stop-motion animation aficionado who makes puppets and writes books. And if you have a food-related AV story, I'd love to hear it!
Monisha Devaiah

Marketing Manager -APAC, AVIXA

I lead AVIXA’s APAC marketing and communications initiatives, which include member communication, vertical market events, educational programmes and AVIXA’s brand presence at the association’s trade shows in the region. I look forward to making new connections on the Xchange and leverage digital as a medium to offer value to members and support the association’s commitment of being a hub for AV in the region.  https://xchange.avixa.org/users/avixa
Lisa Matthews, CTS

Open to opportunities , NA

A marketing professional and 20-year AV industry veteran, I am a proud CTS holder and enthusiastic #AVfoodie who is passionate about innovative technologies, design, and all things AV. I look forward to connecting with you here on Xchange and invite you to join me on LinkedIn as well.  To reach me, please message me on LinkedIn, as I am unable to reply to conversations here.