Brisbane: The Next Big Thing

Brisbane’s the word right now. Our team has spent time with partners Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre and Brisbane Economic Development Agency this last month and there is a serious excitement in the air.

With the 2032 Olympics set to put Brisbane on the map, it’s no wonder Queensland is ramping up facilities and spaces to become a top destination for events and meetings.

What we’re loving is the newly formed partnership with Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre BCEC and The Star Brisbane to offer an unparalleled experience for delegates and event organisers.

With the upcoming opening of The Star Brisbane and Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct from August 2024, Brisbane is set to become a top destination for meetings and events. The collaboration will leverage BCEC’s position as the largest conference venue in Brisbane, complemented by the new entertainment options, luxury hotels, and event spaces offered by The Star Brisbane and Queen’s Wharf.

The two precincts will be connected by the Neville Bonner Bridge, providing seamless access for delegates. Together, they aim to attract large conferences, particularly in priority Queensland industries, and create a unique experience that showcases Brisbane’s evolving lifestyle infrastructure. The collaboration seeks to enhance Brisbane’s reputation as an event destination and ensure delegates leave with a desire to return.

The Star Brisbane Chief Operating Officer, Hospitality, Kelvin Dodt, said The Star Brisbane’s world-class venues and offerings had been designed to complement all of the great spaces and experiences Brisbane has to offer.

“From our seemingly suspended Sky Deck which soars 100 metres above the Brisbane River and spans 250 metres in length, to our expansive open-air Leisure Deck brimming with event and entertainment possibilities, The Star Brisbane provides an array of opportunities for product launches or sunset soirées,” Mr Dodt said.

BCEC General Manager, Kym Guesdon said having the Queen’s Wharf precinct directly opposite and accessible to BCEC will deliver a unique Brisbane experience for delegates and conference organisers.

“It expands the value of the South Bank precinct offering and delivers additional benefits for conference organisers and delegates. We are thrilled to partner with The Star Brisbane to push beyond the physical boundaries of each property and offer more variety than ever before,” Ms Guesdon said.

So what does this mean for Arinex and our clients? Head of Business Development Jessica Ferguson recommends getting in early to secure your event now if you are considering Brisbane.

“Once The Star Brisbane and Queen’s Wharf precinct open, Brisbane is going to boom with demand and we are already seeing it. When speaking with our partners at The Star Brisbane they are telling us they are already nearing capacity for 2024, with a strong interest for 2025 and beyond,” Ms Ferguson said.

If you are thinking Brisbane for you next event and meeting, contact our team today.