Spotlight on Sharon Bretz

By Megan Peters, MEA Deputy Chair 

As we return to 2024, I am continuing on my quest to unearth the unsung heroes of MEA and I had the pleasure of catching up with Sharon Bretz – a Victoria stalwart who we know through her long-standing role at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins and through her work with the Victorian branch of MEA.

For those of you who attended Evolve 2022, you will have benefitted personally from Sharon’s incredible generosity to the industry, and her unwavering commitment to creating exceptional experiences.

Sharon started her journey with MEA in 1994, the same year she started working for The Regent Melbourne (now Sofitel Melbourne On Collins). In an industry that experiences a relatively high turnover of staff – this tenure is admirable. Sharon’s support of MEA began through her attendance at events and grew to various committee roles culminating in 10 years on the MEA Victoria Branch.

When asked about the professional benefits being involved in MEA has brought about, Sharon commented on the amazing network that MEA has afforded her, and the platform that it provides to meet new suppliers and clients, as well as strengthening relationships with existing contacts.

Personally, Sharon credits her involvement with MEA with giving her the confidence to comfortably pick up the phone and reach out to her industry peers for advice, favours and comradery.

The highlight of her time with MEA has been supporting the formerly known as YMEA Committee with organising a student conference:

“There is a great deal of satisfaction in mentoring the YMEA committee and seeing their work come together to create a successful event. The enthusiasm of the next generation coming into our industry is heartwarming.”

Branch volunteers are the backbone of MEA – and Sharon leaves a lasting legacy in Victoria through her decade of service to industry.

As we all continue to rebuild post-Covid, MEA needs more people to come forward and volunteer their time to bring the industry back to life through MEA events – whether you are new to the industry, or a stalwart like Sharon – you can never underestimate the power of one person to make a difference.

Sharon offers the following encouragement about joining MEA and volunteering on a committee:

“Please do it. It is so rewarding and opens up your network of contacts to our fabulous industry”.

For more information on how to get involved, contact Gabby via admin@mea.org.au.