CHAMBER CONNECTIVITY CONFERENCE
Belfast Chamber has announced details of a major conference which will focus on future connectivity and multi-modal transport for the city.
In partnership with Belfast City Airport and Belfast Harbour and as part of the Chamber’s annual BelFast Forward series, the Connectivity Conference will take place at Titanic Belfast on Tuesday June 4.
Belfast Chamber chief executive Clare Guinness said: “Through a mix of inspiring local and international speakers, the conference will study how our local expertise and green technology innovation will drive Belfast forward.
“Whilst recognising that we live on an island, future connectivity must strive to be as sustainable as possible. We’ll be exploring Belfast as a future gateway to facilitate travel and trade, but also looking at our digital and data requirements, in addition to green energy and decarbonisation initiatives that are driving innovation for our city.
“The conference will study how Belfast is the perfect testbed for innovation given the strength of our established design and advanced manufacturing companies. We’ll also explore how our connectivity fortunes will require collaboration and imagination from all stakeholders to propel Belfast to new levels of prosperity.”
To register for BelFast Forward 2024 – Connectivity Conference or explore the exhibition opportunities visit https://belfastchamber.com/events/belfast-forward-2024/
MOTOR INDUSTRY AWARDS
Local motoring businesses and professionals are under starter’s orders with the much-anticipated return of the prestigious Northern Ireland Motor Industry Awards 2024.
New and used car dealerships, leasing operations, vehicle maintenance and repair specialists and automotive part suppliers will contest 22 award categories that acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the local automotive industry.
Sponsored by Used Cars NI, the awards will take place on Thursday November 7 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast, hosted by presenters Rebecca McKinney and Curtis McCosh on behalf of media partner Cool FM.
Awards will recognise excellence across dealer groups, franchise, and independent dealers of various sizes, as well as Used Vehicle and EV retailers, and Leasing operations.
They will celebrate outstanding achievements in customer service, marketing, and community engagement, as well as showcase the success of sales and after-sales teams within the industry.
Individual accolades will acknowledge the achievements of an inspirational female, expert automotive technician, an emerging rising star, and a dedicated apprentice in addition to the outstanding leadership of dealer principals, sales managers and after-sales managers.
A Lifetime Achievement Award, introduced as a new tribute this year, will recognise an individual’s lasting impact on the north’s automotive industry.
Organised by PR & events company ASG & Partners, the inaugural NI Motor Industry Awards in 2023 attracted over 100 entries, short-listed nominees from more than 40 automotive businesses, with over 480 guests attending the gala awards ceremony to celebrate their achievements.
Used Cars NI, Northern Ireland’s leading online vehicle marketplace, will return as title sponsor in 2024 underlining its commitment to celebrating excellence within the automotive industry.
Entries for the awards close on Friday June 14 at 5pm. For further information on how to enter or to book tickets, visit nimotorindustryawards.com.
BALLYCLARE MAY FAIR
Ballyclare May Fair returns for a week of celebrations from Saturday May 18 to Sunday May 26, featuring a funfair, family fun days, horse fair, It’s a Knockout competition, soapbox derby, live music, and a dazzling fireworks display.
From pet shows to the traditional horse fair, live music to baby raves and messy play, there’s entertainment for all ages and interests. Foodies and craft lovers can indulge at the markets and artisan stalls and Ulster-Scots cooking demonstration from Paula McIntyre. Car enthusiasts will love the popular vintage tractor gathering and classic car show.
The annual Mayor’s Parade will mark the opening of the May Fair while the evening concert and fireworks will provide a spectacular finale to the week-long series of exciting events.
The popular Emergency Services Demo is back, as are the Ulster-Scots Céilidh, Mayfair Tea Dance and the Country Street Entertainment.
Antrim and Newtownabbey mayor Mark Cooper said: “I’m excited to see the plans come into place as the team work hard to improve the fair year on year. There really is something for everyone from those who have never missed a May Fair in 50 years to those visiting for the first time and I am proud to be a part of it.”
Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/BallyclareMayFair for the full programme, booking details, and ways to get involved.
