The next big thing in Newcastle’s urban transformation was unveiled on 23 July when the inner city’s largest exhibition and conference facility NEX (Newcastle Exhibition and Conference Centre) opened.

 

The facility was launched to fanfare and celebration with the Kids with cancer charity Giggle Ball.

NEX has been developed by The Wests Group after purchasing the former Newcastle Panthers club last year. The upper level of the club has been transformed into NEX, while the ground level has become Wests City.

 

NEX has been designed with the flexability to host conventions, exhibitions, entertainment weddings or events from intimate to grand. It can cater for 2,400 people in the main auditorium with more than 2500 sqm of floor space and an imposing stage. Smaller spaces will allow for more boutique events and shows to be staged in purpose-designed areas. NEX has three state-of-the-art conference and exhibition spaces complete with cutting-edge technology.

 

“The venue addresses the serious lack of large conferencing facilities in the Newcastle CBD area,” Wests Group CEO Philip Gardner said.

“We anticipate NEX will become an unrivalled exhibition, convention and entertainment destination for world-class events right in the heart of the city.”

NEX features include contemporary designs, flexible spaces and cutting-edge technology all combining to make NEX the obvious choice for touring superstars, event organisers, corporate groups and wedding planners.