Event: 2019 Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix
Client: Atlantic Group | Role : Major Event Venue Manager
Venue : Marriott Bonvoy VIP Lounge

The exclusive and glamorous Marriott Bonvoy Lounge was the place to be seen at the Formula 1® Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2019, one of Melbourne’s final “Major” events on the peak season calendar. Over ~325,000 people were in attendance, a 14-year record.

“The eyes of the world will be on Melbourne this week and thanks to the new and improved Marriott Bonvoy Lounge we will be hosting our VIPs in complete luxury, where premium service is at the heart of their experience.”  – Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) CEO, Andrew Westacott

It was my pleasure to lead service at this crown Jewel of Melbourne’s event calendar for it’s busiest year in the previous 14 year history, and receive glowing feedback to boot.

Pictured : One of three bars, at a venue that was both a destination and a gateway. As literally the *only* access point for the entire pit straights length of corporate suites it itself was an entirely bespoke installation, and featured drawcards such as a fully fledged TV Studio, VR racing simulators, dedicated Sommelier tastings by Pernot Ricard,  and more.

This extremely high volume, extremely VIP pass-through traffic presented a far greater challenge than even the size of the venue might suggest. To boot, the only access point for all F1 drivers and staff was directly out the front and side of the venue.

Food was designed by celebrity chef Shane Delia and prepared by Atlantic Groups Executive Chef Trevor Knight was served by a team comprised of Atlantic Groups elite.

Australian singer-songwriter and actress, Bonnie Anderson headlined the entertainment at the premium Marriott Bonvoy Lounge amongst other great global acts and local artists, including Sean Kingston and internationally renowned DJ Tay James.

For the beer connoisseur, the globe trotting Heineken Draught Masters were on hand be mastering the perfect pour at three bars. Both male and female guests were indulged at the Pamper Pit ft Joey Scandizzo and Jade K for hair and makeup touch ups.

Marriott presented the venue as “…one of the key experiences we’ll be offering as part of our partnership with the Australian Grand Prix. We want our members and lounge guests to enjoy the ultimate VIP experience, and we’ll be using this opportunity to showcase the exceptional service you can expect from any one of our Marriott International hotels, as well as the extraordinary experiences and rich benefits our members can access via the Marriott Bonvoy platform.

Here’s to next year, team.