For 18 years, Cathy Taylor, National Business Development Manager, has been an integral part of the Cairns Convention Centre. She has played a key role in the growth of Business Events in Cairns and made a significant impact on the local Cairns community. As Cathy steps away at the end of June, we want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate her remarkable career at the Cairns Convention Centre.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Cathy’s career is adorned with incredible highlights. She was part of the team that won the prestigious AIPC World’s Best Congress Centre award, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence. The operationalisation of the Centre’s expansion marked another significant milestone, enhancing its capabilities. Cathy also curated many unique famils, showcasing the reef and ancient rainforest. One of her unforgettable favourites was a breakfast atop Copperlode Dam, where the splendours and flavours of Tropical North Queensland were on full display.
Standout Events
When reflecting with Cathy about memorable conferences, she mentioned the 2017 International Women and Law Enforcement Conference, gathering distinguished figures such as the Bomb Squad prize winner to Cairns. Another notable occasion was the 2010 Renal Society of Australasia Conference, aptly named “Making Waves,” which united local experts Janet, Lois, and Kate, who frequently collaborated with the team at Cairns Hospital. Most recently, the Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) May 2025 was held in Cairns, attracting over 1,400 delegates in anaesthesia, perioperative medicine, and pain medicine. Cathy’s success in showcasing Cairns as a potential host destination for such prestigious conferences demonstrates her genuine passion for the region and her in-depth understanding of the business events industry. Cathy also emphasised that the list of impactful and memorable events extends beyond these examples, with each one holding a special place in her heart.
Evolution of Cairns and the Centre
Throughout her tenure, Cathy has witnessed many significant changes in both Cairns and the Centre. The redevelopment of the Cairns Esplanade and the Waterfront Precinct has transformed the area into a more vibrant and welcoming space for delegates. The Centre itself has expanded and been refurbished, offering flexible and adaptable spaces with breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty—a dream for any salesperson. Additionally, new and upgraded attractions for delegates, such as the Aquarium, offsite options, rooftop bars, new hotels, and an increasing number of sustainability initiatives and tour operators, have enhanced the overall business events offering and experience for clients and delegates.
What She Will Miss
Cathy will miss working with amazing clients from diverse industries, feeling privileged that no two days were ever the same. “I have loved showcasing our region and sharing it with people who have never been here before, and then seeing them return with family and friends,” she says. Meeting incredible people, including researchers working on new cancer cures and environmental preservation, has been a highlight of her career. “It’s been an honour to meet so many individuals who are making a real difference in the world.”
Future Plans and Advice
Looking ahead, Cathy plans to spend time with her family and grandchildren, travel, volunteering, and see where the universe takes her next. Reflecting on her career, she says, “I feel very privileged and honoured to have worked for ASM Global and with incredible colleagues at the Cairns Convention Centre.” Her advice to those in the Business Events industry is to embrace its diversity and the lasting friendships it fosters: “Welcome and enjoy the diversity that we are involved in and the lasting friendships our industry allows us to build.”
Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre, warmly shares, “Cathy, you will be dearly missed. We deeply treasure your dedication and hard work over the past 18 years. Your kindness and unwavering support to the team are immensely valued and will leave a lasting impact on all of us. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours and hope you find joy and fulfillment in the new adventures that await you.”
Cathy Taylor’s career at the Cairns Convention Centre is a testament to her dedication and passion, leaving a lasting impact on the business events industry and a legacy for the local Cairns community. Cathy’s last day with the Centre will be on Friday, June 27, 2025.
