Concierges Set for the 70th International Congress - in Sydney!
- lisahylton2
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Excitement is building for this year's Union Internationale des Concierges d'Hotel (UICH) Les Clefs d’Or Congress.
It's the most anticipated event in a Concierge's diary and now more information has been released for the 70th International UICH Congress.
So far, more than 40 people, including Concierges, business affiliates, partners and guests, have signed up - but registration is still open for anyone who wishes to join the party.
Les Clefs d’Or “Young Concierge” Award
After winning Young Concierge of the Year at The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain & the Commonwealth Awards 2025, Silvio Forino will represent Great Britain in the International Young Concierge of the Year Award.
Silvio, Head Concierge at Park Hyatt London River Thames, started his career more than 10 years ago and has worked at the Park Hyatt since it opened in 2024.
A full list of nominees for this award can be found here.
You can read more about Silvio in this interview.
A New Era
Dean McWhinney, President, Les Clefs d’Or Australia and Zone Director, Southeast Asia & Oceania, said: "It is with enormous pride and excitement that I invite you to join us here in Sydney for the 70th UICH Les Clefs d’Or International Congress.
"For us here in Australia, this is more than just a Congress, it’s a homecoming. The last time Sydney hosted our international family was back in 1995, and now, over 30 years later, we are honoured to once again share our city, our culture and our spirit with you. So, come and say G’day!
Sydney is a place where the harbour sparkles and lights up the sails of the Opera House, where the beaches roll out golden and endless, and where the people greet you with a smile and a story. It’s a city that reflects the very best of Australia: open, welcoming, diverse and full of life. We can’t wait to show you not only our famous icons, but also the warmth and hospitality that run deep in our roots."
He added: "This Congress will be a celebration of our friendships, our shared history and the bright future of Les Clefs d’Or. It will also be a chance to connect in the true Aussie way: with open arms, good humour, and unforgettable moments together and maybe a beer or two! On behalf of Les Clefs d’Or Australia, we can’t wait to welcome you to Sydney in 2026. Let’s make this 70th anniversary one to remember!"
"For us here in Australia, this is more than just a Congress, it’s a homecoming" Dean McWhinney
President of the GB section, Binoy Nair said: "The GB section is looking forward to the Sydney Congress and our contingent this year is more than 40 people. I am personally very happy to attend the Congress as this gives us an opportunity to make new friends and catch up with friends from different parts of the world."
He added: "There is also the educational element and every year; the Congress has industry leaders imparting their wisdom on the changing environment in our industry."
Speakers
As always, the speakers have been chosen to ensure both an informative and engaging Congress. For the 70th International UICH Congress, speakers include:
WILLIAM BRICHTA - Principal | Shape Strategies
HEATHER BYRON - SVP Global Delivery & Enablement | Alliants
TRISTAN GADSBY - Co-Founder & CEO | Alliants
GREGOR VOGEL - Vice President of Product | SiteMinder
JORDAN KESTLE - Head of International Projects | SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern
Schedule
12th April:
Delegates arrive at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
13th April:
9am-11am: First Time Attendees Meeting at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
9am-5pm: General Assembly at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
9am-5pm: Spouse & delegate activity: Sydney Tour & Bondi Beach lunch.
6pm-10pm: Aussie Pub Night at Barangaroo House for all delegates.
14th April:
9am-5pm: Education Day for all delegates at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
10am-3.30pm: Spouses and guests activity: tbc.
7pm-1pm: Country/Zone Dinners for all delegates.
15th April:
9am-5pm: Open Forum (formerly referred to as General Assembly) at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
11am-3pm: Spouses and guests activity: tbc.
6pm-10pm: Harbour Cruise for all delegates.
16th April
9am-5pm: Blue Mountains Tour for all delegates.
6pm-1am: Gala Dinner for all delegates at Hyatt Regency Sydney.
17th April:
Memories of the 69th UICH Congress in Madrid last year.
