Conference venue

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is conveniently located in the heart of the city's premier shopping, dining and theatre district and provides a spacious, modern conference venue.  The Sofitel is easy to access via public transport and onsite car parking is available at the the cost of the attendees. 

Where to stay in Melbourne

There are many hotel options located in Melbourne's CBD catering to all budgets and/or conveniently located near the conference venue. A map of where the conference venue is located is provided to assist you in choosing hotels within a close proximity. Below we have provided a non exhaustive list of some nearby hotels of all budget levels:

• ​The Sofitel  Melbourne on Collins- The Sofitel on Collins have provided GWPAW attendees with a special conference rate, the direct booking link here: https://www.idem.events/r/swinburne-university-gravitational-wave-physics-and-astronomy-workshop-f80f0416 - Please note the conference rate is only available for 4 to 9 of December. Beyond those dates Sofitel is charging non-discounted fees. 
• Hotel Collins
• Mantra 100 Exhibition
• Ibis Budget 
• Punthill apartments
• Citadines on Bourke
• Stamford Plaza
• Grand Hyatt
• Sheraton Melbourne 
• QT Melbourne
• The Westin

Transport

To and from the airport

• Sky bus provide express airport transfers to and from Melbourne CBD. Details including fare price, pick up locations and  timetables can be found on their website: www.skybus.com.au/melbourne-city-express/
• A Taxi from the Airport to Melbourne CBD will cost approximately AUD$50-$60: www.melbourneairport.com.au/Passengers/Parking/Ground-transport-options/Taxis
• Uber is also available from Melbourne Airport www.uber.com/global/en/airports/mel/

​Getting around Melbourne 

• Trams and Trains are a great way to get around Melbourne. Trams are free within the CBD zone. If you require a ticket on a tram or train you can purchase a Myki card from tram stops, train stations or 7 Eleven outlets. 

What to do in Melbourne

Melbourne has much to offer especially in the summer time. 
If you are looking for things to do and/or sites to see below is a list of recommendations: 

• The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
• Royal botanical Gardens
• The Queen Victoria Market
• South Melbourne Market 
• The Melbourne Zoo
• The Aquarium 
• Federation Square
• Go Boats on the Yarra River
• Hire an E-scooter and explore Melbourne via scooter

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