ISMRT Australian National Chapter & New Zealand National Chapter
2026 Joint Meeting

Visiting Melbourne

14-15 November 2026
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Visiting Melbourne

Located in the southeastern corner of Australia, Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, stands as a vibrant and culturally rich city. As Australia’s second-largest city, Melbourne is celebrated for its cultural diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city’s streets are adorned with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant street art, creating a captivating blend of old and new.

Explore the eclectic neighbourhoods of Melbourne, from Fitzroy’s trendy cafes and boutiques to the beachside charm of St Kilda. Each suburb contributes its unique character to Melbourne’s diverse tapestry.

Melbourne has earned its reputation as Australia’s culinary capital. The city’s laneways and arcades are home to an array of eateries, offering cuisines from around the world. Experience the bustling food markets, fine dining establishments, and hidden gems that make Melbourne a paradise for food enthusiasts.

Melbourne’s events calendar is brimming with cultural festivals, sporting spectacles, and community celebrations. From the Melbourne Fashion Festival to the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the city comes alive with a diverse range of events throughout the year.

The traditional custodians of the land on which Melbourne stands are the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. Melbourne acknowledges and respects the rich cultural heritage of the Wurundjeri, whose connection to the land remains an integral part of the city’s identity.

Visiting Victoria

Make the most of your time in Victoria before or after the meeting. Whether you’re sampling wines at renowned vineyards or unwinding on one of the state’s stunning surf beaches, there’s an experience for every interest.

Venture beyond the city to discover the rich diversity of regional Victoria. From relaxing in natural hot springs to exploring coastal towns, alpine villages, and scenic peninsulas, there’s plenty to enjoy. Take a scenic drive, lace up your walking shoes for a nature trail, or browse local shops and vibrant produce markets.

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is a coastal gem just 90 minutes from Melbourne, famous for its stunning beaches, wildlife encounters, and natural beauty. Visitors flock to see the world-famous Penguin Parade, explore scenic coastal walks, and enjoy close-up views of koalas, seals, and native birds. Whether you’re surfing, hiking, or relaxing by the sea, Phillip Island offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is one of Victoria’s premier wine regions, just an hour from Melbourne. Renowned for its cool-climate wines, especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it’s home to award-winning wineries, gourmet local produce, and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can enjoy cellar door tastings, fine dining, hot air ballooning, and visits to charming villages nestled among rolling vineyards and lush countryside.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives, stretching along Victoria’s southwest coast. Known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations, the route offers breathtaking views at every turn. Along the way, explore charming seaside towns, lush rainforests, and scenic walking trails.

Wilsons Promontory

Wilsons Promontory, affectionately known as “The Prom,” is a spectacular coastal wilderness at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Located about three hours from Melbourne, it’s known for its rugged granite mountains, white sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and emus. Popular for hiking, camping, and swimming, Wilsons Prom offers scenic walking trails, panoramic lookouts, and a chance to reconnect with nature in one of Victoria’s most cherished national parks.

Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a stunning coastal region just over an hour from Melbourne, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, rolling vineyards, and gourmet food scene, it’s a favourite getaway for both locals and visitors. Explore charming seaside villages, take in clifftop views, or unwind with a spa day and a glass of local wine.

Grampians National Park

Grampians National Park, also known as Gariwerd, is a striking mountain range in western Victoria known for its rugged sandstone peaks, scenic lookouts, and rich Aboriginal heritage. A haven for hikers and nature lovers, the park offers dramatic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, native wildlife, and ancient rock art sites. Whether you’re trekking to the Pinnacle, spotting kangaroos at dusk, or exploring local wineries and villages nearby, the Grampians delivers a truly immersive natural experience.

All information and images have been sourced from https://www.visitvictoria.com/regions/.