The Gold Coast has successfully secured the bid to host the 19th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS) Congress, marking the prestigious event’s first return to Australia since 2015.
Scheduled to take place at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) from August 28 to 30, 2026, the congress is expected to attract more than 2,000 international researchers and practitioners specialising in vitreoretinal diseases.
The 2026 programme will focus on cutting-edge scientific sessions and clinical workshops, fostering global collaboration and advancing the field of vitreoretinal care.
The three-day event is projected to deliver a A$6.9 million (US$4.8 million) economic boost to the city, supported by Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program, and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
Andrew Chang, congress president and secretary-general of APVRS, commented: “The Gold Coast is an exceptional destination, offering a perfect blend of world-class meeting facilities and an inviting environment for delegates and their families to combine professional development with a memorable vacation.”
