Brisbane Economic Development Agency’s general manager of tourism, business and major events, Lorelle Chittick, explains how the city is attracting attention on the global stage.
As one of Australia’s fastest growing cities, Brisbane is recognised around the world as a vibrant hub for events, cultural experiences, business and innovation. It is drawing attention for more than just its year-round sunny climate, relaxed and welcoming nature, and ease of access to stunning natural surrounds.
Recognition at home
The renowned James Street shopping precinct – with its canopy of Moreton Bay figs lining a street of artisan boutiques and cafes – is home to The Calile Hotel, the only Australian hotel recognised in the World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023 website. Agnes was also named Australia’s top restaurant by Gourmet Traveller, while the University of Queensland earned top spot in The Australian Financial Review’s inaugural “Best Universities Ranking”.
Global accolades
Brisbane has garnered international acclaim, with the city named one of TIME magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places 2023”. It was also the second destination featured in the renowned Frommer’s travel guide’s “Best Places to Go in 2024”.
In October 2023, Brisbane was announced as the only Australian city to achieve gold level under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals Cities global initiative, demonstrating the city’s commitment to being a clean, green and sustainable destination.
Being awarded the title of Australia’s sporting capital by global communications agency BCW – and placing 15th on its global list – came as no surprise given the city has garnered international attention as host city for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Brisbane was also a host of matches in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and is home to big events in cricket, tennis, rugby league, rugby union, golf, marathons and cycling.
New developments
In preparation for hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Brisbane is actively advancing a $25 billion infrastructure pipeline. Set for a staged opening from August 2024, Queen’s Wharf, a $3.6 billion integrated resort development, will transform Brisbane’s riverfront. Connected by a new pedestrian bridge with South Bank cultural hub and Brisbane’s dining and entertainment precincts, Queen’s Wharf will be a major drawcard for securing national and international events. It will bolster the city’s events offering with a 2000-square-metre ballroom, four new hotels, more than 50 new bars and restaurants, and a soaring Sky Deck offering panoramic views with open-air dining.
The highly anticipated electric, zero-emissions Brisbane Metro public transport system will begin moving passengers around the city in late 2024.
Within the next 12 months, we are also preparing to raise the curtain on Brisbane’s new 1500-seat theatre at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
This story appears in the Autumn issue of Spice, as part of our annual Hot Seat feature, which shines a spotlight on the MICE industry’s movers and shakers, and outlines what’s in store for the next 12 months.
