Melbourne will be transformed into "gala central" tonight with many of the industry's biggest names hosting social events
The gala dinners, cocktail parties and exclusive functions have all become part of the ARBS experience.
These glitzy supplier events tend to dominate the first night of the exhibition with Wednesday night dedicated to the ARBS Awards. There is the long standing Actrol gala dinner which is a Tuesday night tradition.
Then there is Heatcraft's Fire and Ice cocktail event at Crown Casino's plush Studio 3 which boasts unrivalled views of
Melbourne's skyline. Guests can expect live music, 'magical' entertainment and a few surprise guests.
But this is just a couple of a long list of formal events being held tonight, not to mention all the 'private' functions organised by suppliers to entertain their biggest customers. These private gatherings are arranged for a select few in contrast to the mega events being staged by some suppliers.
For example, Fujitsu General is hosting a VIP function which is being held at a 'secret venue' with the invitation promising guests will be 'whisked away' from the Hilton Melbourne South Wharf to a private venue featuring celebrity guests.
Another supplier that is living large is Ziehl-Abegg a company celebrating its 10th anniversary tonight at the Melbourne
Cricket Ground.
Invitations provide guests with access points for parking at the grounds and directions to the Premiership Club Room. It might be in a sports arena but dress is strictly formal.
These glamorous events have become standard fare for the ARBS Exhibition in Melbourne it will be interesting to see if Sydney can match all the fanfare when ARBS returns to Australia's biggest city in 2018.