Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre spotlights its 20th anniversary

The $167 million Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, opened in 2004 as Australia’s largest regional convention centre and has, since opening, hosted thousands of domestic and international events.

Acknowledging the Gold Coast’s need of a purpose-designed facility to accommodate conferences, exhibitions, concerts and large-scale gatherings, the GCCEC was developed as a collaboration between the Queensland Government and Jupiters Ltd.

Located in the heart of Broadbeach, just 500 metres from the beach and walking distance to thousands of accommodation options, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre with a design that architecturally blends form and function, marked its 20th anniversary on 29th June.

In 2009, the Centre was expanded to meet demand, adding two multifunction halls, three meeting rooms and three kitchens. Total exhibition space reached 10,000 sqm with the expansion.

Now, with its massive main arena, four exhibition halls and a range of meeting rooms catering for up to 6,000 people, GCCEC is recognised as a world-class destination of choice for conferences, exhibitions, concerts, trade shows and events. The award-winning venue hosts 150+ events annually, attracting delegates and visitors from around the globe.

Nick Jeffrey, Acting General Manager, GCCEC noted “the Centre has been a major economic driver to the region, supporting local business and employment, attracting leaders of industry, sport and entertainment to our city. In fact, last month The International Communications Association Conference attracted more than $8 million in economic benefit.”

From rodeos, Commonwealth Games and A lister events to world leading conferences and exhibitions, there’s been no shortage of wow moments for the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre over its 20-year history. Some highlights include:

•2004 IGA/Metcash Expo is GCCEC’s first corporate client (still is a client today)

•2007 National Rodeo finals attracts 15,000 guests

•2011 Rihanna concert sells out

•2013 First convention centre to achieve EarthCheck Gold Certification

•2018 Australian Tourism Exchange (and again in 2023)

•2018 Commonwealth Games Netball and Media Hub

•2019 SportAccord and Eurovision Australia Decides

•2019 Wins Gold at Australian Tourism Awards

•2020 Netflix films Spiderhead with Chris Hemsworth onsite

•2023 Achieves Master certification through EarthCheck

•2023 World Title Fight Tszyu vs Mendoza