Experience
Conference Programme
2026 MPA Gala Dinner & Conference
Celebrate. Connect. Be Inspired.
Join the Master Painters Association NSW & ACT for the industry’s night of nights — a full day of learning, networking, and culminating in an unforgettable Gala Dinner celebrating outstanding achievements.
📅 Saturday 30 May 2026
📍 Shangri-La Sydney
176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks NSW 2000
Theme: Celebrating Business Excellence & Recognising Achievement
A Premier Event for the Painting & Decorating Industry
The 2026 MPA Conference & Gala Dinner brings together painters, decorators, contractors, suppliers and partners for a day of professional development and celebration.
Hosted at the iconic Shangri-La Sydney, overlooking Sydney Harbour, this is your opportunity to:
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Celebrate outstanding achievements in the industry
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Recognise the people and projects making a difference
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Connect with industry leaders, partners and peers
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Explore the Trade Expo and discover new products & innovations
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Enjoy an evening of awards, entertainment and networking
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Saturday, 30 May 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Welcome lunch and networking prior to the conference sessions.
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Saturday, 30 May 1:00pm – 4:00pmAfter lunch, Members and Guests will hear from two keynote speakers who will deliver valuable industry updates and share their expertise.
About our speakers
Speakers to be announced.
Saturday 30 May 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Afternoon Tea will be served between presentations, and Members are welcome to visit the Trade Expo during these breaks.
The Trade Expo will be open from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm, providing plenty of time for Members and Guests to meet exhibitors, explore new products, and connect with industry partners.
The 2026 Trade Expo brings together suppliers showcasing products and services that help businesses achieve excellence and elevate industry standards.
Highlights:
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Premium paints & coatings
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Tools, equipment & accessories
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Innovations supporting recognition of quality and excellence
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Expert advice & technical guidance
Saturday, 30 May 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment and celebration! Join us as we honour the best in the industry at the Master Painters Awards for Excellence 2025 — the ultimate night of nights. Enjoy a spectacular night of fine dining, live entertainment and dancing, all in cocktail-style sophistication. Dress code: Cocktail.Guiding us through the evening is the exceptional Tim Gilbert — renowned sports presenter, commentator and producer — who will bring his signature charisma and energy to the Awards. Tim has reported on some of the greatest local and international sporting moments from the last 30 years.
Our other entertainment will be announced soon.
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WHAT’S ON IN SYDNEY:
Extend your Conference and Gala Dinner experience with the brilliance of Vivid Sydney! From the Shangri-La’s stunning vantage point, enjoy sweeping views of the harbour lit up in vibrant colour — the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable stay. If you are planning to walk around Sydney and see Vivid, bring some warm, comfortable clothing and shoes. The event is FREE.
Sydney Vivid Website: Vivid Sydney | Light, Music, Ideas & Food
ACCOMMODATION:
Stay at the Shangri-La Sydney and enjoy luxurious accommodation with Harbour and Opera House views.
Ensconced in the historic Rocks District, Shangri-La Sydney features 565 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, award-winning dining experiences, and Chi, The Spa, an urban oasis in the heart of the city.
Website: https://www.shangri-la.com/sydney/shangrila/
💆🏻♀️🧖🏽♂️ Shangri-La Sydney Chi, the Spa discount
Stay at the Shangri-La Sydney and enjoy 10% off Chi Spa treatments (bookings required; excludes products).
Exclusive MPA Member Rate
Room rates: Room only: $520 Room + 1 Breakfast: $560
1. Simply click the link here.
Or follow the steps below.
1) Visit https://www.shangri-la.com/
2) Insert hotel name, check-in date, check-out date, and total number of guests.
3) On next column, click "Special Code" > choose "Group" > key in Group Block code MPC300526
4) Click "Search" and rates will display accordingly.
PARKING:
The cost of parking at the Shangri-la Hotel, Sydney is $105 per night (cars under 2.1 metres in height). You can leave your car with our valets at any time on the day of arrival and do not have to depart until 3pm on the day of check-out before additional charges apply. Excluding the day of departure you can come and go as often as you like but only be charged the flat nightly rate of $105. The car park is open 24 hours a day. Bookings are not required or taken.
Casual parking is $65 per day (must leave by midnight) and $45 when visiting any of our outlets such as Blue bar, Altitude or Chi Spa etc.
Alternately there is a Wilson parking station located in the Quay West building directly behind us (entry is at 111 Harrington St). Bookings are made online and depending on the time of the week or whatever specials they are offering it may be a less expensive option. Please be aware that you would not have 24 hour access to your car.
FAQS
Is the conference free to attend?
Yes, for MPA Members and invited guests.
Do I need to book for lunch?
Yes. Lunch is included but registration is required.
How do I buy Gala Dinner tickets?
Select Gala Dinner during registration. Confirmation and payment instructions sent via email.
Is the event open to non-members?
Gala Dinner tickets are for members only. Conference access is limited to members and invited partners. If you would like to become a member, please contact us on (02) 9758 8877 or reception@masterpainters.com.au
Dress code for the dinner?
Cocktail.
Need assistance?
Master Painters Association NSW & ACT
📞 (02) 9758 8877
📧 reception@masterpainters.com.au
🌐 masterpainters.com.au
© 2025 Master Painters Association NSW & ACT
All Rights Reserved