Social Program

We invite you to participate in the social events being held as part of the Meeting. 

Welcome Reception

Date: Monday 15 July 2024
Time: 1730-1930hrs
Location: Cairns Convention Centre
Dress Code: Smart casual
Tickets: Included in fulltime registrations. Guest tickets are AU$85 inc GST.

This evening is a great opportunity to catch up with colleagues and friends over canapés and refreshments as we welcome you to the Meeting. 

ECR Meet the Speakers Session

Date: Tuesday 16 July 2024 
Time: 1800-1900hrs
Location: Meeting Rooms M2&3, Mezzanine Level, Cairns Convention Centre
Dress Code: Smart casual
Tickets: Included for all ECR registrants. Guest tickets are not available. 

The Organising Committee is pleased to present a stellar lineup of industry experts and seasoned experts at the ECR Meet the Speakers session, including: 

  • Rob Lavigne
  • Krystyna Dabrowska
  • Susan Lehman 
  • Ivan Liachko
  • Austen Terwilliger  

Beginning with a panel session and ending with a component where you can interact and engage with the speakers, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn and exchange ideas with the brightest minds in the industry, enabling you the chance to chart a course for success in your field. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this experience. 


Networking Dinner

Date: Thursday 18 July 2024
Time: 1900-2300hrs
Location: Rainforestation Nature Park
Transfers: Coach transfers will depart the Convention Centre at 6.15pm and commence returning from 10pm (or when the first coach is full) with the last coach to leave at 11pm. Return coaches will drop delegates off at the Pullman Cairns International at 17 Abbott Street, Cairns. 
Dress Code: Smart casual. It is recommended to wear flat shoes due to uneven ground in places, and a light jacket as the function will be outdoors. Insect repellant will be available throughout the Park.
Tickets: Included in fulltime Academic and Industry registrations. Students have access to a discounted ticket of AU$100. Guest tickets are AU$200 inc GST.

The Networking Dinner will take place at Rainforestation Nature Park, located 30 minutes from Cairns within World Heritage Listed Rainforest. During this networking evening you will be able to interact with native Australian animals, view a traditional cultural performance from the Pamagirri Aboriginal Cultural Presenters, take a tour on an amphibious World War 2 Army Duck and enjoy food stalls in the Tropical Fruit Orchard under the beauty of the southern night sky. This is an evening sure to give you an Australian experience that you will remember forever.

The Viruses of Microbes 2024 Meeting is proudly hosted by


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