The venue honoured “30 years of bringing people together – for ideas, innovation, celebration and connection” with the black-tie event in its Plaza Ballroom on Friday, 6 June, 2025, which was attended by Spice.

BCEC opened on Queensland Day in 1995, helping to continue the legacy created in Brisbane from World Expo 88 by supporting the development of the South Bank precinct and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors by replicating its economic benefit on a permanent basis.

The ASM Global-managed venue has welcomed 21.6 million guests through its doors in 30 years, including world leaders, pioneering scientists, performers, events industry professionals and Queensland locals.

During the three decades since opening, BCEC has delivered 26,082 events, generating $6.26 billion in economic benefit for Queensland.

BCEC CEO Bob O’Keeffe AM (pictured, above left) and general manager Kym Guesdon (pictured, above right) have been at the venue since day one in 1995.

“From the very beginning, our vision was to create a centre that would drive growth, spark ideas and put Brisbane on the world stage,” says O’Keeffe.

“Thirty years on, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together as BCEC stands as a powerful symbol of that vision, continuing to create opportunities and shape the future of our state.”

BCEC is acknowledged globally as one of Australia’s most successful venues, including leading the way with dedicated space for small and medium conferences, being an early adopter of environmental responsibility, and developing the industry’s first carbon calculator.   

“Our highly skilled and professional team, many who have worked with us long term, share this significant milestone, as do our many loyal clients, some who have been with us for the 30-year journey,” says Guesdon.

“I also wish to acknowledge those clients who have joined the BCEC family more recently and thank them for entrusting us with their events.

“Our 30 years of continued success has laid the foundations for an even brighter future.

“We remain committed to creating meaningful economic and social impacts for our city through strategic partnerships, and we have been working closely through our advocates program and with the Queensland Government and our universities on areas critical for research and innovation.

“While attracting international conventions can be difficult, I believe it is an indicator of the level of innovation that is taking place in the city.”