Built in the 1830’s as a warehouse for the port of Hobart, the iconic building that runs along the waterfront is a celebration of the city’s maritime past. Its light filled interior is generous and welcoming, much like the island of Lutruwita/Tasmania, and the people that call it their ‘home’.

Originally standing on ‘New Wharf’, the area behind was once a part of the harbour, now ‘reclaimed land’ and is home to the iconic Salamanca Place. Here, you will find the famous weekly market of the same name, as well as countless art galleries, boutique bars and award-winning restaurants. Just opposite Parliament House and the globally acclaimed Tasman Hotel, it’s a central venue with true walkability to the city’s main attractions.

In 1902, the wharf welcomed the Royal Yacht Ophir, and was renamed in honour of its precious cargo; Prince George, the Duke of York. Over the subsequent decades, the area fell into disrepair but was reborn after receiving funding from the Tasmanian State Government in 2010. Whilst its heritage façade has been restored to its former glory, inside is a modern, muti-purpose event venue designed with conference organisers and event planners in mind.

Whilst its cavernous space can play host to large national conferences and gala dinners, it can also be thoughtfully divided, creating a much cosier atmosphere than should be possible in a former warehouse. Hosting anything from tradeshows, to gala dinners and conferences (or a mix of all three!), the space’s flexibility is key to its success.

Whether it’s an intimate space for 30 delegates, or 1,000, the venue’s heavy glass doors down both sides of the building provide a view towards the water, and in the opposite direction, towards Salamanca. Once heavy metal doors that welcomed cargo from the water and loading via the opposite side onto waiting transport. These days, you are more likely to drive through them to bump in a couple of hundred trade booths, or set up for a luxury car (or tractor!) show. Meanwhile, locals saunter through during any one of the venue’s major indoor/outdoor seasonal events; Dark Mofo’s Winter Feast or Taste of Summer.

Running the entire eastern end of the building, a still working dock is home to Antarctic and other science vessels, the maritime comings and goings lending an authentic heritage vibe. Behind, on the site of the original PW2 building, stretches the uber modern Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), a part of the University of Tasmania.

For most visitors though, it’s the proximity to the city’s famous Salamanca Place that is the highlight. On Saturdays, the entire length of the street is transformed into Salamanca Markets, a bustling throng of local micro businesses, art sellers, farmers, authors and, of course, food vendors. The remaining six days a week, the street remains packed with visitors enjoying the many art galleries, restaurants and boutique bars that line the street. It is a meeting place for locals, and a celebration of all things Tasmanian.

The venue’s managing director, Tom McDevitt, leads a small but incredibly effective team that wear their sustainability and community principles proudly. Taking an individualised approach to sustainability, Tom and his team work closely with organisers to create conference and event experiences with outcomes that serve its purpose as well as creating a lasting and positive impact within the local community.

The venue carries no exclusive contracts, and encourages organisers to ‘shop local’ when it comes to businesses and suppliers, making sure the local economy gets a boost with every event. An active partnership with Hobart City Mission ensures minimal food waste, while an emphasis on recycling and waste separation helps reduce the strain on the local waste facility. Its level concourse and entrance make it a wonderfully accessible venue from the outset, with Tom and his team working with each organiser to ensure that every need is catered for.

Princes Wharf is an exceptional event venue that offers delegates the opportunity to connect not just with their conference or event, but to the city of Hobart. With its central location, easily walkable access to several four- and five-star hotels, it is undoubtedly a fantastic venue to factor into your next important event.

This article was taken from the Business Events Tasmania Magazine – March Edition. For more inspiration and events news, be sure to check-out the full magazine, available to read for free today, by following the link here.