The Cairns Convention Centre has hosted a remarkable series of Conferences over the last few months, bringing significant economic benefits to Cairns. The region, home to experts in various sectors such as Tropical Health, Tourism, Life Sciences, and Education & Training, draws global thought leaders and innovators. Between now and June 2025, the Centre estimates it will attract over 21,000 delegates from Australia and overseas.
Recently, the Viruses of Microbes (VoM) 2024 Conference was held for the first-time outside Europe, attracting over 500 global experts in microbial virology. The upcoming XVI. Quark Confinement and the Hadron Spectrum (QCHSC) 2024 Conference will attract over 500 international and national delegates.
Jeremy J. Barr, Associate Professor from Monash University and Co-Chair of VoM, praised Cairns, saying, “Hosting the meeting in Cairns was an easy choice. Cairns unique wildlife, scenery, and setting offer a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s rare to have a Conference on a tropical coral reef with a rainforest above.” Barr added, “Cairns’ relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and Australian culture enhanced the experience for international delegates. The world-class facilities at the Cairns Convention Centre are among the country’s best, and Cairns regional character maintains a local, connected feel for the meeting. It’s been an optimal location for a Conference; we couldn’t have asked for anything better.”
For QCHSC, the Cairns Convention Centre was selected for its ties with the scientific community and superior facilities. Dr. Ayse Kizilersu from the University of Adelaide, School of Physical Sciences, who is leading the organisation of the event, shared their enthusiasm, “We are delighted to be heading to Cairns in August. Both the venue and destination offer incredible appeal to our delegates, ensuring a high level of attendance from around the world. This year’s event promises to be our best yet, and I look forward to welcoming our community when they arrive in Cairns.” This Conference will also be supported by BEA and TTNQ.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Mark Olsen said hosting the significant Conference had been an invaluable opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities and attraction of Cairns as a host destination. “Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Tourism and Events Queensland, and Business Events Australia were delighted to support The Viruses of Microbes Conference, which brought more than 500 global delegates to the only place with two World Heritage areas side by side,” he said. “The delegates were wowed by offsite events such as the gala dinner at Rainforestation where they dined in the rainforest, experienced Indigenous culture, and interacted with local wildlife.”
Moving into 2025, the Centre will host the Congress of the Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association. In addition to the scientific program, this meeting will also offer its attendees an unforgettable cultural experience.
Other notable upcoming conferences include the
- TravelManagers Australia Conference featuring Olympic Champion Cathy Freeman in September 2024
- Australasian Genomic Technologies Association Annual Conference in October 2024
- Australian Archaeological Association Annual Conference in December 2024; and
- Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Annual Scientific Meeting in May 2025.
Janet Hamilton, the General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre, shared her enthusiasm about the upcoming conferences, saying, “We’re thrilled to welcome delegates from all corners of the globe. The Centre serves as an ecosystem for knowledge sharing, education, and community engagement. These Conferences not only stimulate the Cairns economy but also provide a platform for collaboration and learning. This success is a testament to our dedicated team of Business Development professionals, who will continue to bid for and secure Conferences for Cairns.”
