As part of its 30th birthday celebrations, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) is honouring three decades of connection and community by donating $30,000 to neighbouring South Bank charities supporting people experiencing homelessness and vulnerability.
For thirty years, the Legends Global-managed BCEC has been a trusted destination for events of all scales, from community gatherings to major national and international conferences. This milestone is not only a celebration of the Centre’s history but also a chance to look forward, continuing to deliver exceptional experiences while deepening its commitment to social responsibility.
The donation will be shared among three organisations that play a vital role in supporting vulnerable people in Brisbane. Micah Projects, which advocates for housing, healthcare and safety; Orange Sky Laundry, providing free laundry, showers and conversation to those doing it tough; and Community Friends, a grassroots group offering food relief and essential supplies.
These charities were nominated by members of BCEC’s Corporate Responsibility Team, a group of passionate staff who lead the Centre’s sustainability and community initiatives.
The Containers for Change program is supported across the entire BCEC team, with recycling bins throughout front-of-house areas encouraging visitors to participate. Behind the scenes, our proactive service and kitchen teams contribute significantly to BCEC’s sustainability efforts through robust waste-streaming systems capturing hundreds of thousands of containers each year. Proceeds from these initiatives fund donations to local charities and support environmental innovation within the Centre.
The contribution from BCEC will make a direct impact on the services provided by Micah Projects. Karyn Walsh, CEO of Micah Projects said, “This donation will go directly towards supporting our work across the community supporting families in crisis and providing wraparound support for people facing homelessness. Thank you for supporting Micah Projects, your donation makes a difference.”
Orange Sky will also benefit from the support, helping sustain vital services. Orange Sky CEO and Co-Founder Lucas Patchett OAM echoed the sentiment, “Through contributions like this, Orange Sky has been able to establish and consistently deliver our much-needed services of free laundry, warm showers and genuine conversation, supporting some of Brisbane’s most vulnerable for the past 11 years.”
Mark McDonnell, Founder of Community Friends, also expressed gratitude, “This generous donation from BCEC will help us continue providing meals, clothing and essential supplies to people doing it tough. Every contribution makes a real difference in ensuring no one in our community goes hungry or feels forgotten.”
The initiative coincides with Legends Global Month of Giving, held annually from 15 November to 15 December, which unites teams worldwide in acts of service within their local communities.
BCEC General Manager, Kym Guesdon, said the Centre’s 30th birthday was the perfect moment to celebrate with meaning. “Reaching 30 is a milestone we’re proud to mark by giving back. These contributions honour the community that has supported us for three decades and reflect the values that continue to guide the Centre.”
BCEC’s 30th birthday donation underscores the Centre’s commitment to supporting local communities and creating positive, lasting impact through responsible and sustainable practices.
