The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has unveiled its new 2025 menu, where the focus is on showcasing culinary excellence with a strong emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients.
A highlight is the Flavours of Country gala dinner menu, a three-course celebration of Australia’s agricultural bounty.
“Think sustainably caught fish, locally farmed chicken and beef perfectly paired with native flavours like Davidson plum, saltbush, bush tomato, Kakadu plum, lemon myrtle and more,” MCEC’s executive sous chef of culinary development, Karl Edmonds, said.
Taking sustainability a step further, MCEC has also introduced With Purpose packages, designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising taste. With Purpose features suppliers committed to sustainability, with mindful selections throughout to reduce waste, packaging, and support ethical production. Purpose packages are also offered at a lower price, enabling event organisers to reduce their overall event spend.
The menu incorporates fresh ingredients like micro herbs grown onsite and ethically sourced seafood including Hiramasa Kingfish, Etty Bay Barramundi and Bass Strait Scallops. Dietary needs are also catered to, with a dedicated Something For Everyone range offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Overall, the menu will feature 80 per cent locally sourced produce from Melbourne and Victoria. This commitment to locality extends to the beverage selection, featuring local wines, craft beers, and speciality cocktails. Highlighting a growing trend, MCEC has partnered with the Curious Cabinet to offer non-alcoholic options alongside their continued collaboration with Four Pillars Gin.
Moreover, all surplus produce is also donated to OzHarvest, a food rescue organisation. Last year over 3,000kg of food was rescued, equating to 6,746 meals for those in need.
