ASM Global’s Harvey Lister calls for Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre expansion

Harvey Lister, Chairman and Chief Executive of ASM Global Asia Pacific, has called for the upgrading and expansion of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) rather than build a new indoor stadium ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.

As reported by the Gold Coast Bulletin, Lister said he supported the Gold Coast City Council’s push for a major indoor arena for the region and would discuss the project with Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.

Lister was quoted as saying “we are firmly committed to providing world class entertainment and indoor sport outcomes in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

“We are aware of the various sites that are being considered.

“However, for us, an expansion of the Gold Coast Convention an Exhibition Centre into the city’s ‘global event hub’ is an absolute no brainer.”

Lister said he wanted the most cost effective solution, with some estimates suggesting an expansion of the GCCEC would cost less than half the $750 million to construct a new venue.

He added “if you had a blank canvas for the city of the Gold Coast and asked what is the best possible location now and into the future, the convention centre site in Broadbeach wins hands down.

Lister cited GCCEC’s location next to The Star precinct, Pacific Fair and the light rail, noting “it is such a compelling location that it would need comprehensive reasons for the new hub not to be recognised as the right site.

“We believe entirely with the Mayor’s vision for attracting truly international events, and this project would align perfectly with the Gold Coast City Council’s vision through its new Gold Coast Experience body.”

Lister has previously said that ASM Global would be open to working with partners in the development of a new entertainment venue on the Gold Coast.

Lister will be part of a panel discussion on future venue investment on the final day (tomorrow, 23rd May) of the 2023 Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress in Melbourne.

Images: The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (top) and Harvey Lister, Chairman and Chief Executive of ASM Global Asia Pacific (below, credit: ASM Global).