Victoria showcases major events to attract Indian Travellers to Melbourne

Visit Victoria, the official tourism body for the Australian state of Victoria, recently presented a spectacular "Every Bit Different" showcase, highlighting the major events and experiences awaiting Indian travellers in Melbourne and beyond. The lineup includes iconic events such as the Boxing Day Test against India, the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the Australian Open, the Yayoi Kusama exhibit at NGV, and the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix™.

Brendan McClements noted, “India is demonstrating a huge appetite for travel to Australia, particularly Melbourne and regional Victoria. Through these iconic events, we hope to inspire Indian travellers to explore everything Melbourne and Victoria has to offer and make it a must-visit destination on their travel bucket list.”

Chief Executive Brendan McClements and Chief Marketing Officer Shae Keenan of Visit Victoria emphasised the growing significance of India as a key market for the state. The event also featured tennis ace player Rohan Bopanna, cricket presenter Sanjana Ganesan, and renowned Melbourne-based Chef Helly Raichura who presented a special lunch that celebrated Melbourne’s cultural vibrancy, blending Victorian and Indian influences. The menu was inspired by three of Melbourne’s hallmark events, that are the Australian Open, Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, and Boxing Day Test.

Chef Raichura commented, “Designing this menu was a deeply personal journey, blending the rich heritage of my Indian roots with the dynamic energy of Melbourne’s iconic events. Each dish was designed to take diners on a journey, highlighting the energy of the Boxing Day Test, the excitement of the Australian Open, and the culinary excellence of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. My goal was to create an experience that celebrates the vibrant fusion of cultures and flavours, offering a true taste of Melbourne’s spirit.”

During a fireside chat, Ganesan reminisced about her 20-year association with Melbourne, recalling memorable moments at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground during the Australian Open and cricket matches.

Rohan Bopanna added on to say, “It’s always an honour to play at the Australian Open, a tournament that holds a special place in my heart. After visiting Melbourne for 20 years, I can confidently say that the energy, passion, and excitement of this city, especially during the Australian Open, is unmatched. Whether it's tennis or cricket, Melbourne makes every athlete feel at home. The city embraces the spirit of competition, and that’s what makes it so unique.”

Sanjana Ganesan shared, “The India-Australia Boxing Day test match is definitely going to be one for the books. As a fan of the sport, I am really looking forward to immersing myself in the spirit of the game at the iconic MCG which holds so much cricketing history. The best thing about the city of Melbourne is that there’s always so much to explore and it is really pulsing with its own unique energy.”