The organisers of the IBD Convention due to take place in Perth next week – March 16 to 20 – have taken the decision to postpone this year's event due to escalating concerns over the spread of the coronavirus disease.
They now plan to host the Convention – with the same theme of Connectivity – in Perth in early 2021. The plan is to transfer all registrations and fees from this year to next year's rearranged event.
The following statement was released today (March 11):
The Institute of Brewing and Distilling’s Asia Pacific Section 36th Biennial Convention, scheduled for Perth 16th to 20th March 2020, has been postponed to ensure the safety of its guests and sponsors due to rapidly escalating concerns relating to the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
IBD Asia Pacific Chairperson Dr Megan Sheehy explains: “The decision to postpone the event was not taken lightly. Prior to making the decision we discussed the options with our sponsors, the Institute of Brewing and Distilling HQ, and the venues, to make sure we were making the best decision for all concerned.
“Globally there are restrictions being placed on travel and as part of a global brewing and distilling community, this has touched the event.
“We are working to secure a new date at the same venue in Perth in early 2021, with the same theme of ‘Connectivity’ and format. We will provide this information to our delegates as a priority once the new details are confirmed.”
IBD’s intention is to transfer all registrations and the fees associated with these to next year’s event. Within the next week, all registered participants will be contacted by TRIBE with information about the transfer of registration and new details associated with this.
“The IBD Asia Pacific Convention is one of the highlights of the IBD calendar and we’re extremely disappointed about having to postpone the event, due to circumstances that are completely beyond our control.
“The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a global health emergency, and while the real risk here in Australia is low, we feel this is the best decision for all concerned,” Dr Sheehy explained.
If you would like to discuss transferring your registration, please contact TRIBE at ibd2020@tribemanagement.com.au.
