Despite the challenges faced by the business events sector, the desire and demand for in-person events on the Gold Coast has not wavered, according to Destination Gold Coast’s financial year 2020-21 results.
The tourism organisation revealed it has secured 104 conferences with an estimated economic impact of $99.3 million in the twelve months to June 2021. The level of enquiry and bidding opportunity has also proved strong, returning to results closer to pre-COVID levels.
Announcing the results at the marketing body’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) last week, Destination Gold Coast chief executive officer Patricia O’Callaghan said the city is looking forward with renewed optimism.
“Our industry has demonstrated how incredibly adaptive and resourceful they are when challenges arise, and this collaborative effort certainly reflects the determination of our sector to rebound and come back stronger than ever,” O’Callaghan said.
According to O’Callaghan, the Gold Coast is well positioned to lead the visitor economy into recovery with business events set to contribute significantly.
“There is a strong desire to meet and connect in person and we have been highly aware of this consistent sentiment across the industry as this demand will drive growth.
“The Gold Coast is a city coming of age in one of the world’s fastest growing regions, which is redefining our offering for business events.
“Our future pipeline reflects this with 144 conferences and meetings, worth an estimated $191 million, committed to meet here between 2022-2030.”
Some of the recent conferences confirmed for the Gold Coast include The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) in 2022 for 1,000 delegates, and the Australian Medical Students Association (AMSA) National Convention in 2023 also for 1,000 delegates.
O’Callaghan said momentum is building and that as the city rebounds, it will be recognised globally as the destination of choice for business events.
“Business events are a vital part of our visitor economy, particularly as they support Gold Coast’s economy from Monday to Thursday and during off peak periods.”
