The International Association of Congress Centre Apex Awards, which are based on client evaluations, recognises achievement in high quality customer service and venue management. BCEC previously won the award for the 2016 to 2018 period.

The BCEC was the first convention centre in Australia to reopen following the COVID–19 pandemic, and has since hosted 280,000 guests at 480 events. 

Its latest role is as a mass vaccination hub. One of the centre’s exhibition halls is now the state’s largest community vaccination site where up to 3000 vaccinations a day were expected.

BCEC general manager Bob O’Keeffe said despite the centre tracking well, recent lockdowns had again disrupted business, but expediting the vaccine rollout was the key to the industry’s return to business.

He said the award was an international benchmark for the industry.

The award’s independently assessed survey found that 80 per cent of BCEC clients rated the overall experience as excellent.

“We would like to acknowledge our many loyal and long-term clients, and those who have steadfastly supported us through these past months during our recovery phase.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said BCEC would play an important role in the city’s economic recovery.

“Queensland’s reputation as a world class destination for major events is one reason our bid for the 2032 Olympic Games was so successful,” Palaszczuk said.

“The quality of our venues like Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre is a strong selling point for Queensland.

“Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre has done a great job hosting COVID safe events throughout the pandemic. This recognition is well deserved.