April Newsletter 2024

WELCOME TO NEW CEO

The Committee welcomes Jen Williams as its new CEO commencing 3^rd June.

Committee for Brisbane President Kristin Conlon says Williams’ appointment comes at an important time for Brisbane as it deals with extraordinary growth and the challenge of leveraging the benefits and legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Jen has a significant track record of leading a membership-based advocacy organisation and is well-respected in both the business community and within Government,” Ms Conlon said.

“Representing the views of our members regarding the Queensland Government’s investment Games venues will be high on her agenda.”

Williams says she is looking forward to working with the Committee’s leadership team in ensuring political leaders are prepared to listen to good ideas and, where necessary, make difficult decisions that are in the long-term interests of the city.

“There’s never been a more exciting time for Brisbane,” she said.

“There may be challenges at hand, but there are also many incredible opportunities on the horizon that will rely on the passion and vision of leaders- like the Committee for Brisbane’s members- to ensure they come to fruition.

“I’m delighted by the opportunity to build on the Committee’s great work and cement Brisbane’s pathway towards becoming the world’s most liveable place.”

CORPORATE LEADER BRIEFING EVENT

Join us on May 16^th to hear from Senior Economist, Justin Smirk, about the current economic climate.

Following the release of the 2024/25 Federal Budget, Justin will offer invaluable insight into the post-budget landscape and the looming prospect of an additional three interest rate rises on the horizon. This Corporate Leader Briefing will give businesses an insight into how to navigate the current economic landscape with confidence.

Whether you’re a business leader, investor, policymaker, or simply interested in understanding the economic landscape, this Economic Update from Westpac promises to deliver actionable intelligence to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

This event is for our Corporate Members only. Register now to secure your place and stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing economic environment.

Event Details:

When: Thursday, 16^th May

Where: McCullough Robertson, Level 11, 66 Eagle Street, Brisbane

Time: 5:00pm – 6:30pm

Secure your spot here.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SUB-COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS

We spoke with our Enterprise Sub-Committee Co-chairs, Anne Kovachevich, Mott MacDonald and Prof. Tim Kastelle, The University of Queensland, about their newly appointed positions.

Anne Kovachevich, Mott MacDonald
I am very grateful for the opportunity to become a co-chair for the Enterprise Sub-Committee. I am a long-time advocate of helping to connect industry, academia and the innovation ecosystem and I am excited about the potential for Brisbane to showcase sustainability and innovation in the lead up to Brisbane 2032.

I am looking forward to reinvigorating the Committee for Brisbane Innovation mixers which have in the past been able to showcase exemplar examples of start-ups working with industry for mutual benefit. I am also looking forward to work with Tim to combine our expertise from academia and industry to work with the in-depth experience from our Sub-committee members to connect and share knowledge to promote innovation and entrepreneurship to make elevate Brisbane as the most liveable place.

Prof Tim Kastelle, The University of Queensland
I was excited to join the Committee for Brisbane Enterprise Sub-Committee because the long-term vision of the Committee aligns very well with mine. My areas of expertise are innovation and leadership, and skill-building is part of the mission at the University of Queensland as well, so I could see a clear contribution that I could make to the Sub-Committee.

The first year of work within the Sub-Committee has been very rewarding, and we have made great progress towards working out the ways in which innovation and the development of key 21^st Century Business skills can contribute to a thriving future for Brisbane. The opportunity to work with Anne in Co-Chairing the Sub-Committee with her deep knowledge of innovation and sustainability in the built environment is exciting, and we’re looking forward to working together to move the work of the Sub-Committee forward.

SAVE THE DATE

Future SEQ: Designing our Legacy Outcomes – Tuesday 11^th June, 12-2pm

In March 2021, Committee for Brisbane members set a visionary statement for South East Queensland for the next decade, outlining aspirations for the region to achieve international renown by 2033. Join us for an insightful discussion as we explore how hosting the 2032 Games can accelerate and achieve long-term legacy outcomes envisioned for SEQ.

This event will focus on unpacking the legacy across the Committee’s strategic pillars of Connectivity, Enterprise, Creativity, and Equity.

Engage with industry experts, policymakers, and community leaders in a dynamic dialogue aimed at charting the course for SEQ’s future trajectory. Together, let’s explore how the 2032 Games can serve as a catalyst for transformative change, aligning with our shared vision of a region celebrated for its diversity, innovation, and inclusivity by 2033.

More information to come.

What is Brisbane's biggest draw card?

Last month we conducted a poll on LinkedIn to see what our members and followers identify as Brisbane’s best asset.

The results were as follows;

Natural Beauty and Recreation

57% respondents prioritised Brisbane’s natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. From green spaces to parks and iconic landscapes, Brisbane’s natural assets serve as a cornerstone of its appeal.

Cultural Scene

A significant portion of respondents, highlighted Brisbane’s vibrant cultural scene, encompassing festivals, museums, and galleries. The Committee is pleased to see creativity and culture as a key pillar of a city’s liveability being represented so strongly in the results.

World-Class Sporting Events and Facilities

For 17% of participants, Brisbane’s reputation as a hub for world-class sporting events and facilities stood out as a key drawcard.

Quality Education and Research Institutions: 6%

While a smaller percentage highlighted Brisbane’s education and research institutions as a key drawcard to the region, we recognise its significance in the development of a better Brisbane. These institutions not only contribute to the city’s intellectual capital but also attract students and researchers, further enhancing Brisbane’s reputation as a knowledge hub.

3 MONTHS UNTIL THE PARIS 2024 GAMES

With the countdown to the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games being only a few short months away the world is turning their attention to Paris, and the anticipation and countdown for Brisbane 2032 comes closer.

As our athletes gear up to represent their countries on a global stage, cities around the world, particularly Brisbane, are eager to learn from the experiences of previous hosts, and ensure we harness this as an opportunity for learning.

In early September, we are looking forward to hosting our Paris Debrief event on September 4, which will give our members and community a chance to hear from community representatives who will share their “on the ground” insights and learnings from the Paris Games across the business, creative and sporting landscapes.

Mark your calendars now!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Creating Legacy through transforming communities.

The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a once-in-a-generation catalyst for transformational change. With existing infrastructure to be upgraded and new assets built, the Games has the potential to leave a legacy, long after the sporting events are over. How can we ensure we capture this opportunity to fundamentally transform our communities for the better?

Check out Aurecon’s Brisbane-based advisors and engineers sharing their insights on how we can use the Games to create legacy for our communities. Click here to view videos.

Behind the scenes of our Eyes on Brisbane Event

Check out these great interviews with each panel member from our Eyes on Brisbane event in March for more insights on the opportunities that lie ahead for Brisbane on the global stage.

Patricia O’Callaghan, CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland– click here
Justin McGowan, CEO, Trade and Investment Queensland – click here
Rebecca Masci, Director of Brand and Digital Engagement, Brisbane 2032 – click here
Ann Sherry AO, Advisory Council Member, Committee for Brisbane – click here