1 Location: Pick somewhere close to work, the quicker you can get to the venue the quicker you will have an ice cold drink in your hand.

2 Ring ahead: By ringing ahead and speaking with the bookings manager you may be able to secure a better spot, location within the venue or even secure a better deal on your food and drinks package.

3 Menu choices: Are you on a limited time frame? Let the venue know in advance, they may be able to send you a menu for your staff to pick beforehand. If you then have a certain time frame they can accommodate that by making sure they have your meals ready when you arrive.

4 Godfather deals: A godfather deal is where the venue contributes to your tab if it is of size to secure your booking. When ringing the venue ask if they have any current godfather deals, you will be surprised. If you have a budget you may get more value for your spend by confirming a large function. Be it a free drink for each staff member or an overall amount on your tab, it does not hurt to ask!

5 Be transparent: Have a theme or concept you are celebrating? Let the venue know, they may have décor that suits and can help dress up a room to add to your theme. Or they may be able to tailor some cocktails or drinks. For example, a going away in summer may call for margaritas and long island ice teas or a winter or EOFY party may call for mulled wine and espresso martinis. By being transparent with the venue, they can help add that extra 1% to ensure your work function is successful and well received by everyone in attendance.

First Nations peoples are the traditional custodians of this land and we pay our respects to Elders, past, present, and emerging. 

The past year at Bourke St Courtyard has been full of enlightening and powerful experiences, as we deviated from our regular programming of events to listen, learn, grow, and share. As a venue that prides itself on inclusivity and diversity this is something that is very close to our hearts.

We embraced the opportunity to come together as one community, to heal through education with the help of some very special people. On Thursday 9th December, 2021 a powerful Smoking Ceremony was performed at the venue by Michelle Mills from Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation – the traditional owners of the land that our venue sits upon. On Friday 10th December, we were joined by Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Ringo Terrick for a Welcome To Country. Both Michelle and Uncle Ringo spoke stirring words, providing insight into the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people, the issues that they still face and how it is now up to the broader community to come together as one in the spirit of reconciliation. 

We look forward to continuing our newfound friendships and working relationships while we grow together as a community. It is important now more than ever for us to band together in the events scene and help support one another. Thank you to everyone that helped with their time and expertise throughout this journey, it was truly a pleasure to share these experiences with you. 

Love The Bourke St Courtyard Team 

 
(This statement was written with the support of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. All content (written and visual) has been approved.)