PREMIER Annastacia Palaszczuk has joined Cairns MP Michael Healy to officially open the new-look, expanded Cairns Convention Centre.
The facility will now begin hosting conferences and events following the $176 million project.
The 10,500sqm expansion followed major refurbishment works on the original building in 2021.
The boost to tourism, travel and trade is estimated to boost the region’s economy by $100 million annually.
The Premier said the people of Cairns deserve the upgraded facility and can be proud of what has been achieved.
“The new-look Cairns Convention Centre is a fitting addition to Queensland’s Far North tourism mecca, which will undoubtedly attract world-class events to the region,” she said.
Cairns MP Michael Healy said he looks forward to welcoming major events to the Far North.
“The expanded Cairns Convention Centre is a testament to our city’s talent, boosting the skill of our local construction industry and creating 570 good jobs in the region,” he said.
“Better still, 86 apprentices and 7 trainees were trained during construction and are now part of the city’s workforce – youngsters who now have a big future in the building industry.
“I look forward to welcoming major events to the region, which will bring good news for our visitor economy, small businesses and tourism operators alike.”
The centre now boasts facilities over four levels, including a 410-seat function room, three 120-seat meeting rooms and exhibition space for 30 booths – perfect for showcases and roadshows.
Showcasing the picturesque view of the region, including Trinity Inlet, the new 500-seat Trinity Room and Trinity Terrace, pre-function facilities, and operational spaces allow for concurrent conventions within the centre.
More than 1000 local workers were inducted on to the site during the works.
The bigger and better Convention Centre is expected to bring more than 35,000 delegates to Cairns annually.
Managing contractor Lendlease persevered through the COVID pandemic, cyclones and supply chain and labour pressures to complete the project.
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