Melbourne recently hosted leaders in establishment and operation of sporting facilities and venues at the second annual International Sport Facility Management from 27-30 March. Participants from 6 countries learnt about the 6 stages of facility management from feasibility to operations.

The event was presented by Sport Knowledge Australia (SKA), the Melbourne School of Sport and Recreation Management (MSSRM) and the Victorian Government Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development (DIIRD) and was launched by Victoria's Minister for Sport, James Merlino. IOC member, Kevan Gosper made the opening address.

The programme provided delegates with an outstanding opportunity to learn from Victoria’s leading experts in the conception, planning, design, construction, establishment and operation of major sport facilities.

Following the success of the inaugural programme last year, the programme was further improved to create a world class learning environment in which to convey leading edge facility development and management principles.

One of the highlights for participants this year was a snapshot of Melbourne’s sports facility versatility with a behind the scenes tour of Rod Laver Arena, transformed from a tennis venue for the 12th FINA World Swimming Championships.

Another highlight identified by the participants was the SKA sponsored case-study by Ross Smith on Melbourne Olympic Park.