Update from the General Manager
The conclusion of BCEC’s 30th anniversary year marked an important milestone for the Centre, providing an opportunity to reflect on three decades of growth while looking ahead to the opportunities and responsibilities that lie before us.
Throughout the past year, we have celebrated our history, recognised the people and partnerships that have shaped our journey, and taken the time to listen. The insights shared by our clients, visitors, advocates and team members continue to inform how we evolve our venue, enhance our services and support the industries and communities we serve. As Brisbane progresses towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, that commitment to listening and continuous improvement will remain central to how we navigate the years ahead.
The past quarter has been both busy and encouraging, with the Centre welcoming several major national conferences. Among them was Ozwater’26, Australia’s premier water conference and exhibition, which attracted more than 4,000 delegates, alongside the Australian Veterinary Association National Conference 2026, which welcomed over 800 veterinary professionals from across the country. Strong delegate attendance across these events reflects the continued value organisations place on bringing people together to connect, collaborate and share knowledge. These events directly contribute to Brisbane’s visitor economy while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leading destination for business events.
Alongside this activity, we continue to invest in the Centre’s future and the experience we provide our clients and delegates. It has been wonderful to see clients embracing the capabilities of our new Plaza Ballroom LED screen, while the rollout of new digital signage and wayfinding throughout the venue is helping create a more seamless visitor experience.
In this edition of the BCEC Brief, we share the exciting news that Brisbane has secured LNG2029, one of the world’s largest and most influential energy conferences, highlight the launch of the digital curation of the BCEC Art Collection, and provide an update on the BCEC LSQ Bio-Innovation Bursary, which is now open for applications. We also showcase our new Menu Planner, recent conference activity and the latest developments across the South Bank precinct.
My thanks, as always, go to Team BCEC for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences every day. Thank you also to our clients, advocates and industry partners for your ongoing support. I look forward to welcoming you to the Centre soon.
Kym Guesdon
General Manager
BCEC Art Collection Digital Curation
A digital curation of BCEC’s extensive art collection has been unveiled, led by First Nations curator, writer and advisor, Bruce Johnson McLean. The extensive collection has been curated into three categories – the Papunya Tula/Desert Art, First Nations Art and Australian Art – reflecting the breadth of artistic practice represented throughout the Centre.
The digital curation of these works opens the collection’s history and cultural significance to a broader audience while enhancing preservation and deepening the storytelling behind each piece. The initiative marks the conclusion of the Centre’s 30th anniversary year and reflects the ongoing commitment to sharing significant cultural assets that have shaped its story since opening.
The digitally curated BCEC Art Collection is now available via the BCEC website, with QR codes throughout the Centre providing direct links to information as visitors move through the venue.
30 years: Reflections series
BCEC closed out its 30th birthday year with the release of the 30 Years: Reflections series, a seven-part collection of videos highlighting some of the people who have shaped the venue’s story. Featuring team members from a range of departments across the Centre, alongside valued, long-term clients, the collection explores the moments and relationships that have defined BCEC’s journey.
Released throughout the final week of the Centre’s 30th year, the series reflects on how BCEC has evolved across three decades and highlights the importance of human connection and the lasting relationships that carry BCEC forward.
As BCEC enters its next chapter, 30 Years: Reflection serves as both a celebration of the past and a recognition of the team that has shaped the Centre’s culture across three decades.
Applications open for BCEC Life Sciences Queensland Bio-Innovation Bursary
Applications have opened for the BCEC LSQ Bio-Innovation Bursary, an initiative delivered in partnership between the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre and Life Sciences Queensland to support Queensland’s next generation of life sciences researchers.
Valued at up to $25,000, the bursary provides flexible funding for early to mid-career researchers working across the life sciences sector, including medical, agricultural and biofuels innovation. Funding can be used to support activities that strengthen industry collaboration and accelerate research impact, including collaborative projects, industry placements, commercialisation initiatives, specialised resources and targeted engagement opportunities.
The bursary aims to strengthen connections between research and industry, supporting the translation of Queensland’s world-class research into real-world outcomes while fostering the development of emerging leaders within the sector.
Applications are now open, with the successful recipient to be announced on Friday, 11 September. Application information and eligibility criteria are available on the Life Sciences Queensland website.
New Menu Planner
Created by Executive Chef Matthew Arnold and the BCEC culinary team, the new menu is shaped by people, place, and the moments shared around the table. Contemporary in style and distinctly Queensland; it’s designed to bring people together through fresh, vibrant food and genuine hospitality.
“This menu introduces new dishes and ideas while staying true to what matters most: a diverse, dynamic offering that celebrates the best that Queensland has to offer.” Executive Chef Matthew Arnold says. From the Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim to the waters of the Sunshine Coast and Far North Queensland, the exceptional quality of local produce is at the heart of every dish.
Inspired by the diverse backgrounds of the BCEC team, it offers a range of cuisines, flavours and seamlessly integrated dietary options, ensuring every guest feels included and connected to the experience.
The connection extends beyond the plate, through thoughtful planning, waste reduction, and ongoing support for local charities such as Emmanuel City Mission, reflecting BCEC’s commitment to its guests, community and environment.
The 2026-2027 Menu Planner is now available. Follow our dedicated Instagram page @SeasonedbyQLD for ongoing inspiration.
Conferences in House
Over the past quarter, BCEC has welcomed thousands of delegates across major sectors including health, sciences and infrastructure for national and international conferences.
Bringing global perspectives to Brisbane, a number of international conferences connected local and international delegates to share research, insights and best practice. The International Federation of Nurse Anaesthetists World Congress welcomed over 800 delegates from across the globe, marketing the first time the 4-day event has been held in Australia. Most recently, the International Society for Research on Emotion held their bi-annual international conference at BCEC, welcoming over 200 delegates to collaborate and learn from new research and findings.
The Australian Veterinary Association National Conference returned to BCEC, bringing together over 800 veterinary professionals, leading experts and industry partners for a 4-day program designed to advance personal growth and veterinary science. Ozwater’26, Australia’s premier water industry conference and exhibition, also returned to BCEC with over 4,000 delegates attending to explore the innovation and solutions shaping the future of water management across Australia and the 50th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australasian Division of the International Academy of Pathology was led by international faculty and senior academic experts, equipping over 570 delegates with deep diagnostic insight and practical knowledge.
Collectively, these conferences brought valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration while contributing to Brisbane’s reputation as a leading business events destination.
Brisbane Secures LNG2029
Brisbane has been announced as the host city for the International Conference and Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2029), the world’s largest LNG event and one of the most influential gatherings on the global energy calendar. The conference is expected to attract more than 4,200 delegates from over 80 countries, bringing international energy leaders, innovators and policymakers to Brisbane in 2029.
LNG2029 represents a significant win for Brisbane and Queensland, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leading destination for international business events and its strategic position within the Asia-Pacific region. The successful bid was coordinated by BCEC in partnership with the Australian Gas Industry Trust, Australian Energy Producers, Tourism and Events Queensland, Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Tourism Australia.
The event is forecast to contribute up to $19 million to the Queensland economy and generate more than 16,800 visitor nights, while providing a platform for global collaboration, industry innovation and knowledge exchange. Hosting LNG2029 further strengthens Brisbane’s standing as a city capable of delivering world-class international events and positions BCEC at the forefront of facilitating conversations that shape the future of energy.
Sustainability Update
In a move to reduce reliance on single-use packaging, the BCEC kitchen team has implemented a continuous-use container system for receiving and storing ingredients. Now in circulation with BCEC’s major suppliers of red meat, chicken, seafood and gourmet mushrooms, the initiative replaces the use of cardboard boxes, polystyrene and soft plastics, materials that present greater challenges for recycling. Beyond its sustainability benefits, the system enhances quality control by reducing risks of leakage and contamination, while the added task of container washing is offset by the efficiencies gained from eliminating packaging breakdown and streamlining waste management.
Energy reducing initiatives continue to be integrated into BCEC’s daily operations through enhanced power-saving strategies. In addition to existing sensor technology across car parks, amenities, corridors and adaptable power-saving modes, sensors have been installed throughout the Centre at entry points of various rooms, reducing the need for full lighting capacity when unoccupied. The Great Hall, Plaza Ballroom and various smaller spaces including meeting rooms, VIP rooms and Exhibition Hall Cafes are among the latest energy-efficient upgrades.
Around the Precinct
South Bank has welcomed a new neighbour on Fish Lane, with Hotel Terminus officially opening its doors following extensive redevelopment. Reimagined by Ghanem Group Hospitality, the four-level venue brings together dining, events, entertainment and nightlife within the restored heritage building.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 brought a wave of international energy to South Bank, with the Cultural Forecourt serving as Brisbane’s official live site throughout the tournament. Thousands of football fans gathered to watch matches on the big screen, creating a vibrant atmosphere as supporters from around the world came together to celebrate the global event. With live broadcasts, entertainment and a strong community spirit, the precinct was a hub of activity and shared experiences during one of the world’s most watched sporting events.
Media enquiries: Karyn Sutton, Communications and Marketing Manager
T: 07 3308 3022 M: +61 467 721 754 E: [email protected]
