The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), an ASM Global-managed venue, has welcomed 21.6 million guests through its doors over 30 years.
In total, BCEC has delivered 26,082 events for Brisbane since its opening, generating A$6.3 billion (US$4.1 billion) in economic benefit for the State, sharing knowledge and showcasing Queensland’s achievements internationally.
BCEC opened on Queensland Day 1995, helping to fulfil the post Expo ’88 legacy, supporting the development of the South Bank precinct and continuing to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors, replicating its economic benefit on a permanent basis.
Thirty years of continuous and successful operation is an impressive achievement for any organisation and is the result of a close and cohesive team. Bob O’Keeffe, former general manager and now the Centre’s CEO, and Kym Guesdon, the current BCEC general manager, have both been with the Centre since day one, testament to the venue’s strong workplace culture.
“From the very beginning, our vision was to create a centre that would drive growth, spark ideas, and put Brisbane on the world stage. Thirty years on, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together as BCEC stands as a powerful symbol of that vision, continuing to create opportunity and shape the future of our State,” said O’Keeffe.
As the Centre celebrates this major milestone, Guesdon says the focus is firmly on the future.
“Our 30 years of continued success has laid the foundations for an even brighter future.
“We remain committed to creating meaningful economic and social impacts for our city through strategic partnerships and we have been working closely through our Advocates program and with the Queensland Government and our universities on areas critical for research and innovation.
“While attracting international conventions can be difficult, I believe it is an indicator of the level of innovation that is taking place in the city,” she stated.
Further announcements are planned throughout the year on legacy and other initiatives that celebrate the Centre’s valued community, cultural projects and industry collaboration.
