Update from the General Manager
As we approach the conclusion of our 30th anniversary year on 6 June, this milestone has marked a meaningful period of renewal for the Centre. Over recent months, we have completed an important program of infrastructure updates across key spaces, with upgrades designed to enhance the experience for our clients, elevate our event delivery and prepare the Centre for the decade ahead. These improvements represent a significant investment in our future and ensure BCEC remains at the forefront of world‑class event delivery as Brisbane moves towards 2032.
With this work now complete, our focus turns to the year ahead. The Centre is preparing to welcome a solid calendar of exhibitions and corporate gatherings, alongside a range of ticketed events that will engage diverse audiences. This activity continues to contribute to Brisbane’s visitor economy and supports businesses throughout the South Bank precinct and beyond.
Looking further ahead, we are also preparing to welcome a number of national and international conventions in 2026, many aligned with Queensland’s recognised capabilities in life sciences, health, technology and energy. With some secured in close partnership with our Convention Advocates, these events highlight the strong collaboration and expertise that continue to shape Brisbane’s global reputation.
In this edition of the BCEC Brief, we share updates on our 30th Birthday legacy initiative with Life Sciences Queensland, showcase the impressive new LED screen in our Plaza Ballroom, and highlight the renewed buzz across the South Bank precinct as we enter a busy events season. We also recognise our continued partnership with Emmanuel City Mission and the recent contribution made through the Centre’s sustainability initiatives.
Thank you for your continued support as we celebrate this milestone year. I wish you a very Happy Easter and look forward to welcoming you to the Centre in the months ahead.
Kym Guesdon
BCEC Refreshed and Refurbed
The annual Christmas closure once again provided an opportunity to complete extensive upgrades throughout the Centre with this year marking one of the largest capital works programs undertaken in more than a decade.
Key improvements included replacement of the Great Hall operable walls, a main switchboard, and the Main Foyer to Lower Foyer escalators. Flooring upgrades were delivered across the Plaza Link Foyer, Boulevard Room, and the Great Hall and Exhibition Hall concourse areas. The Plaza Level saw the most transformation, with new seating and carpet in the Auditorium and refreshed ceilings and lighting in Meeting Rooms 1–5.
When planning and executing these operational works, the project team ensured sustainable practices and reducing impact was in-focus. Materials such as cardboard, timber, plastic and polystyrene were diverted from landfill and 9.7T of carpet and 106T of steel were recycled or reused.
As we look to the years ahead, these works form part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a high‑quality experience for all who use the Centre. We look forward to welcoming clients and guests into these renewed spaces.
A New Visual Centrepiece for the Plaza Ballroom
A major technological enhancement has transformed the Plaza Ballroom with the installation of a 24‑metre ultra‑wide LED screen. The new digital canvas elevates the room’s impact, offering exceptional clarity, colour accuracy and 8K‑equivalent resolution.
Its flexible capabilities, ultra‑wide presentations, edge‑to‑edge backgrounds and picture‑in‑picture formats give organisers greater creative freedom while reducing the need for additional equipment hire. The screen also opens up new opportunities for premium sponsor exposure and supports sustainable event delivery by reducing printed signage.
This upgrade sets a new benchmark for visual experiences within the Ballroom, and our team is available to help clients explore its full potential for upcoming events.
Bursary Initiative Launched with Life Sciences Queensland
A major 30th Birthday legacy initiative is underway with the launch of a new bursary program in partnership with Life Sciences Queensland (LSQ). Announced at AIME to national and international media, the bursary will run over three years and support mid‑career researchers across health, biomedical and agritech innovation.
As the state’s peak body for life sciences, LSQ represents more than 100 members spanning research, industry and investment. Their strong focus on collaboration makes them the ideal partner for a program designed to accelerate innovation and support researchers at a critical stage of their careers.
The initiative builds on the Centre’s long-standing connection with Queensland’s research and innovation ecosystem and reflects the meaningful legacy outcomes that business events can generate. It also acknowledges the contribution of our Convention Advocates, whose leadership continues to elevate Queensland’s global profile as an Asia Pacific innovation centre.
Application details and program guidelines will be available in the coming months at LSQ.com.au.
International Trade Media, NorthStar and Headquarters visit Brisbane
Recent collaboration between BCEC and the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) saw the hosting of two international trade media famils, welcoming representatives from NorthStar Media and Headquarters Magazine.
The program showcased Brisbane’s strengths as a business events destination, including delegate experiences throughout the South Bank precinct and curated visits to hotels, dining venues and cultural attractions. The itinerary also extended into Greater Brisbane, highlighting the depth and diversity of the region.
During their visit, media met with several of our BCEC Convention Advocates, gaining insight into Queensland’s fast‑evolving innovation sectors. The famil provided valuable exposure for Brisbane and offered media a first‑hand understanding of the experiences available to event organisers and delegates.
The Rooftop Reserve: BCEC's First Batch of Local Honey
A sweet milestone has arrived with the first harvest from our six rooftop beehives, introducing our signature honey: The Rooftop Reserve. Since installation mid‑last year, the hives have supported pollination across nearby green spaces including South Bank Parklands, Musgrave Park and Victoria Park.
Foraging on seasonal native flora has created a distinctly Brisbane flavour that’s already inspiring new menu ideas. Our culinary team is incorporating The Rooftop Reserve into signature dishes and bespoke client offerings, an authentic expression of our commitment to local sourcing and sustainability.
See how our chefs are using this home‑grown ingredient via @seasonedbyqld on Instagram.
AIME - Where the Business Events World Meets
AIME 2026 delivered a vibrant atmosphere, with our team connecting with clients, partners and media across three productive days.
As part of our 30th birthday celebrations, BCEC hosted a private client dinner at Cumulus Inc. in Melbourne, bringing together key interstate clients and industry partners for an evening of connection and hospitality. Guests enjoyed a curated four‑course menu and received a special gift, the first harvest of our rooftop honey, The Rooftop Reserve.
The event strengthened relationships and reflected our personalised, thoughtful approach to client engagement.
$10k Donation to Community Partner, Emmanuel City Mission
Emmanuel City Mission continues to make a profound difference in South Brisbane, providing a safe and supportive place for people experiencing homelessness or vulnerability.
Our teams actively contribute through toiletry drives, surplus food donations and fundraising initiatives. Most recently, a $10,000 contribution generated through our Containers for Change program was presented to support the ongoing delivery of their essential services.
We’re proud to play a small part in Emmanuel City Mission’s ongoing impact and look forward to continuing to build this partnership.
Around the Precinct
South Bank is buzzing with activity as QPAC has officially opened the highly anticipated Glasshouse Theatre, completing a major expansion that now positions QPAC as Australia’s largest performing arts venue under one roof. The opening season for the Glasshouse is underway with Queensland Ballet’s Messa da Requiem from now until 4 April, followed by Sting performing in The Last Ship 9 April to 3 May, and Leah Purcell’s The Drover’s Wife opera from 13 to 22 May. Visit Qpac for ticket information.
The Autumn calendar of events at South Bank features The Collective Markets every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, live music and picnic eats by the river at the Sunday Social, and the Feel Good Program season launch offering a host of free classes including yoga and Pilates. South Bank’s new website is the precincts hub for upcoming events and experiences, explore what’s on.
Media enquiries: Karyn Sutton, Communications and Marketing Manager
T: 07 3308 3022 M: +61 467 721 754 E: [email protected]
