Social program
Welcome to Darwin drinks
Hosted by the Northern Territory Regional Committee and aes26 Committee
Saltwater Welcome
Begin your aes26 conference experience with a special Saltwater Welcome at the brand new Larrakia Cultural Centre, opening in August 2026. As one of the first groups to experience this remarkable new cultural space, delegates will have a rare opportunity to connect with Larrakia Country through a traditional Saltwater Welcome.
For the Larrakia people, the Traditional Owners of the Darwin region, saltwater is central to identity, culture and connection to Country. This Welcoming Ceremony reflects the enduring relationship between the Larrakia people, the harbour and the sea, offering a meaningful way to begin our time together in Garrmalang | Darwin.
Offered in small groups throughout the afternoon, delegates can select their preferred ceremony time, creating a more personal and immersive experience. You'll then have time to explore the spectacular Darwin Harbour precinct before everyone comes together at the Darwin Convention Centre for the official Welcome Reception, where you'll enjoy drinks, canapés and one of Darwin's unforgettable tropical sunsets.
This is far more than a conference social event - it's a rare opportunity to experience a new cultural landmark and participate in a genuine cultural welcome that few visitors to Darwin will have the chance to enjoy. It's the kind of experience that creates lasting memories and a deeper connection to place.
Welcome Reception
Venue: Frangipani Plaza, Darwin Convention Centre
Kick off your conference experience at the Welcome Function, set on the waterfront at Frangipani Place, Darwin Convention Centre. Arrive early and ease into the event with sunset drinks and native-inspired canapés in a relaxed outdoor setting. It’s the perfect chance to connect with fellow attendees, soak up the tropical atmosphere, and toast to the start of three days of learning, ideas, and shared experiences.
New Delegate & CSG recipient networking breakfast
Join the aes26 Conference Choir
Lunch Refreshment Break
Gathering Lounge
Join the aes26 Conference Choir
Lunch Refreshment Break
Gathering Lounge
Clear your head, change gears and meet some new people at the aes26 Conference Choir, led by Duncan Rintoul in the Gathering Lounge during each lunch break.
No musical talent required - just come along, grab a song sheet and join in as we tackle some crowd favourites.
With a different song each day, there's no better way to build community than by making some noise together.
Keep an eye on the aes26 app for choir times and songs. Lyric sheets will be provided - all you need to bring is your voice!
With thanks to Rooftop Social, proud sponsor of the Gathering Lounge.
Gala Awards Dinner at Mindil Beach Resort
Celebrate evaluation in unforgettable style at the AES Gala Dinner, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a Mindil Beach sunset. As the sky transforms into a canvas of rich colours, enjoy an elegant open-air dining experience on the Garden Lawn. Settle in for a relaxed evening with great food, good company, and plenty of conversation as you connect with colleagues, celebrate the Gala Awards, and champion the impact of evaluation together.
Dress code: Outback Glam
The Locals' Guide to Darwin
Discover the best of Darwin while you're in town for aes26.
Whether you're seeking great food, local culture, outdoor adventures or a spectacular Top End sunset, this guide will help you experience Darwin like a local.
Produced by the aes26 Darwin Committee
Australian Evaluation Society
425 Smith Street, Fitzroy Vic 3065 Australia
Phone +61 3 8685 9906
© Copyright 2025–2026 Australian Evaluation Society Limited. ABN 13 886 280 969
We acknowledge the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands in which we conduct our 2026 conference, the Larrakia peoples. We pay our respects to the ancestors and Elders, past and present, of all Australia’s Indigenous peoples. We are committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.
Conference logo design: Cyan Sue Lee | Site design: Ingrid Ciotti