With its thriving economy, world-class infrastructure and major multi-billion-dollar developments well underway, Brisbane has a lot going for it.
The sun-soaked capital of Queensland is abundant with opportunity for business events, offering incredible delegate experiences alongside world-class facilities and unique venues that set the tone for truly memorable events.
There is so much on offer in this city by the river, where the laidback vibe is a welcome change to the frenetic pace of most capital cities and mixing business with pleasure comes just as easily.
A passion for art, culture and sustainability
Brisbane’s South Bank precinct is where you’ll find one of the world’s leading event venues – Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC). With innovation and sustainability at its core, this multi-award-winning Centre operates at the highest international social and environmental standards and has achieved EarthCheck Platinum Certification. Modern and light-filled, it offers 44 versatile meeting and event spaces across seven levels, and can accommodate up to 4,000 cocktail in its Exhibition Halls. BCEC also proudly showcases its own collection of more than 50 artworks by Australia’s leading Indigenous and non-Indigenous contemporary artists and is the only convention centre in the country with a permanent art gallery. The Plaza Gallery features a priceless collection of Central Desert Art, offering an impressive and intimate space for events of up to 200 guests.
Fresh air and fresh food
With its lush green parklands, excellent eateries and year-round events, it’s not hard to see why South Bank is one of Brisbane’s most popular destinations for both locals and visitors alike. Outside BCEC, there are several green spaces which can be hired through council for private events, as well as Flowstate which features a 300-square-metre open-air pavilion that can be booked for up to 500 people. Surrounded by greenery, this unique and versatile space offers a sheltered alfresco setting with plenty of natural light, fresh air and digital capabilities. When it’s time to break for lunch, there’s plenty of options right on the riverfront, including the hatted Otto Ristorante which is renowned for its fresh and modern take on Italian.
An event right by the river
The bustling waterfront dining and entertainment precinct of Howard Smith Wharves is one of the city’s most exciting destinations boasting a plethora of restaurants, bars and stunning event spaces. Among these are: Ciao Papi Glass House, a light-filled venue with front-facing river views that is ideal for private lunches and dinners for up to 75 guests; the Green House which offers indoor-outdoor entertaining for up to 120 standing or 40 seated; and the Mediterranean-inspired Bougainvillea House with wrap-around veranda that can host up to 150 standing or 70 seated. Larger events are better suited to the Rivershed, a heritage wharf building with capacity for up to 595 standing or 360 seated, while Felons Barrell Hall right beneath Story Bridge can be hired out for up to 800. For intimate functions and private group dining, head to Stanley – a two-storey Cantonese restaurant with a range of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Set off on a river cruise
A visit to Brisbane would be incomplete without a cruise on its famous river. River to Bay offers a range of tours and cruises and its high-speed boats can also be chartered exclusively for corporate events, incentive experiences and off-site getaways. Whether you want a scenic sunset cruise sipping champagne and stopping off at bars along the riverbank or you want to venture beyond the city to explore the wonders of Moreton Bay and its islands, itineraries can be fully tailored to your group’s preference.
Meet amongst heritage-listed graffiti art
One of the city’s most significant historic and cultural landmarks, Brisbane Powerhouse is a multi-purpose, not-for-profit arts and culture hubs, hosting upwards of 1,250 performances, festivals and events every year. Perched on the riverfront in New Farm, the venue’s eclectic indoor and outdoor spaces break away from the traditional and include two main theatres, galleries, meeting rooms, a rooftop terrace overlooking the river, and the Turbine Platform, which offers 120 square metres of floorspace for up to 175 guests. Opening in October, The Pleasuredome – a gorgeous sailcloth marquee erected on the lush green Performance Lawn – will offer nearly 400 square metres of canopy space for up to 360 seated for breezy summer events.
Tap into historic charm
Following a meticulous restoration after lying dormant for a few years, The Princess Theatre reopened in October 2021 as a live music and performing arts theatre as well as one of Queensland’s most charming and historic events venues. Located in the suburb of Woolloongabba, the 133-year-old heritage theatre offers five dedicated event spaces which can cater to a variety of events. For larger events, the beautifully restored and rustic Princess Auditorium can host up to 272 seated and 500 standing. Ideal for large cocktail parties and gala dinners, it offers state-of-the-art AV, four bars, a rehearsal room, spacious greenrooms and backstage area, and is fully wheelchair accessible. The outdoor courtyard can also be utilised for arrival drinks.
To get in touch with the Brisbane Business Events team contact: businessevents@brisbane-eda.com.au
