BCEC Manager looks forward to 'business as usual'

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) General Manager Robert O'Keefe has issued a statement looking forward to the venue soon being "fully operational".

The statement reads:

"The purpose of this statement is to assure our clients, colleagues, the industry and the public that the impact on the Centre of flood waters, which Brisbane is experiencing, is much lower than may have been anticipated.

"Event spaces are unaffected. All electronic, IT and AV equipment, some of which was moved to higher levels as soon as the threat was first apparent, has now been returned and our IT network is up and running. Telephone services are expected to be re-connected later today. Our telephone is currently redirected to AEG Ogden, head office of the Centre's venue management group.

"Water intrusion was limited to car parking and some service areas and thanks to the wonderful spirit and commitment of the Centre's staff, many of whom worked throughout the weekend to assist with the clean up, we are working towards a gradual return to business by the end of the week (Friday 21st January) and to be fully operational shortly after that.

"The Centre has heavy bookings throughout the year and we look forward to returning to 'business as usual'.

You would undoubtedly have seen the magnificent support of the wider Brisbane community for the areas extensively damaged in the flooding under the inspirational leadership of Premier Anna Bligh and Lord Mayor Campbell Newman, to both of whom we extend our congratulations and thanks.

"Brisbane is back to work today and it is business as usual for those unaffected by the flood. Brisbane's Lord Mayor Campbell Newman says Brisbaneâs heart is beating again with workers headed back to the CBD and the city's main fruit and vegetable market, which was swamped by floodwaters, has reopened its vital supply chain. Power has been restored to more than 80% of businesses and main access roads reopened.

"The Centre certainly benefited from the effort of the Brisbane City Council in promptly clearing the streets of flooding and debris allowing access to the Centre.

"We also appreciate the support of our parent venue management group, AEG Ogden and the Centre's owners, South Bank Corporation, and we thank our many colleagues and friends in the industry for their concerns and good wishes.

"As a significant contributor to the economy, the public face and the attractions of Brisbane, the Centre will work closely with the City Council and State Government to ensure that Brisbane deservedly retains its position as Australia's new world city."

17th January 2011 - BRISBANE POWERHOUSE RE-OPENS WITH MINIMAL FLOOD DAMAGE

12th January 2011 - FLOOD IMPACT UPDATE ON AEG OGDEN MANAGED VENUES