Key Moments
This year, the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre proudly celebrates 30 years of bringing people together, three decades of innovation, inspiration, connection, and unforgettable moments.
Through the years, the Centre has been at the heart of Brisbane’s cultural and economic story, welcoming world leaders, visionaries, and legendary performers who have shaped history. From royalty such as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Cambridge Prince William, to global icons like the Dalai Lama and Sir David Attenborough, to music legends including Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Ringo Starr, and The Wiggles, each moment has added to our rich legacy of celebration and impact.
Beyond the spotlight, BCEC has also been home to defining events, from the globally broadcast 2001 Goodwill Games to the 2014 G20 Leaders’ Summit and the largest post-pandemic international conference in the Asia-Pacific, the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction. These milestones showcase the Centre’s lasting influence in shaping Brisbane’s story on the world stage.
This timeline honours the key moments, achievements, and people who have made the Centre what it is today. Step into the journey and discover the legacy that continues to bring Brisbane to life.
1998
Ray Charles and The Wiggles brought musical magic to the Centre, captivating audiences and creating unforgettable moments across generations.
1999
Ted Turner and Jane Fonda dropped in for lunch to launch the Goodwill Games, while Jerry Lewis delighted with his love for Aussie meat pies, devouring 10 in one rehearsal alone.
2000
Hollywood glamour arrived as Raquel Welch supported the Starlight Children’s Foundation. BCEC thrilled with Human Nature’s energy, then mellowed with Harry Connick Jr. and The Seekers timeless melodies.
2011
Prince William’s visit strengthened disaster relief, attending a gala with Governor Penelope Wensley AC and Premier Anna Bligh, uniting guests for Queensland’s recovery.
2011
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, were honoured at a luncheon hosted by Govenor Penelope Wensley AC, marking a historic milestone.
2011
Global icons like the Dalai Lama, Richard Branson, and Tony Blair visited the Centre, making this a landmark year of prestige, leadership, and inspiration.
2013
The Sir Cliff Richard, Ringo Starr, and Norah Jones electrified the Great Hall, their unforgettable performance marking a milestone in the Centre’s legacy of world-class entertainment.
2014
World leaders, including Barack Obama, Tony Abbott, Angela Merkel, and Xi Jinping, gathered for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, shaping global diplomacy at the Centre.
2014
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were honoured at a reception, co-hosted by Govenor Penelope Wensley AC and Premier Campbell Newman, uniting leaders and drought-affected farmers.
