Last week’s helicopter crash in Cairns has done nothing to stop the local convention centre from its upward trajectory.
The Cairns Convention Centre has hosted an incredible series of conferences in the last few months and the remainder of the year is looking extremely strong.
Between now and June 2025, the centre estimates it will attract more than 21,000 delegates from Australia and overseas.
Recent meetings have included the Viruses of Microbes (VoM) 2024 Conference and The Australasian Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine Conference.
The Viruses of Microbes 2024 Conference attracted more than 500 global experts in microbial virology and was the first time the meeting had been held outside of Europe.
Upcoming is the XVI Quark Confinement and the Hadron Spectrum (QCHSC) 2024 Conference that is also expected to attract more than 500 international and national delegates.
Associate Professor from Monash University and Co-Chair of VoM, Jeremy J. Barr, praised Cairns and the venue at the conclusion of the conference, saying Cairns’ setting and unique wildlife and scenery provided attendees with a one-of-a-kind experience.
“Cairns’ relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and Australian culture enhanced the experience for international delegates,” he said.
“The world-class facilities at the Cairns Convention Centre are among the country’s best, and Cairns’ regional character maintains a local, connected feel for the meeting. It’s been an optimal location for a conference [and] we couldn’t have asked for anything better.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO, Mark Olsen, said hosting the Viruses of Microbes Conference had been an invaluable opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities and attraction of Cairns as a host destination.
“Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Tourism and Events Queensland, and Business Events Australia were delighted to support The Viruses of Microbes Conference,” he said.
“The delegates were wowed by offsite events such as the gala dinner at Rainforestation where they dined in the rainforest, experienced Indigenous culture, and interacted with local wildlife.”
The upcoming QCHSC 2024 Conference is being held in Cairns because of the subject matter’s ties with the local scientific community.
Dr Ayse Kizilersu from the University of Adelaide’s School of Physical Sciences, who is leading the organisation of the event, said the organising committee was delighted to be heading to the region.
“Both the venue and destination offer incredible appeal to our delegates, ensuring a high level of attendance from around the world,” Dr Kizilersu said.
“This year’s event promises to be our best yet, and I look forward to welcoming our community when they arrive in Cairns.”
Other meetings at the Cairns Convention Centre for the remainder of 2024 include the Travel Managers Australia Conference (September), Australasian Genomic Technologies Association Annual Conference (October), and the Australian Archaeological Association Annual Conference (December).
In May 2025 the centre will welcome the Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Annual Scientific Meeting, among others.