Cairns Convention Centre will be opening next month after an A$176 million (US$116 million) expansion.
The expansion project encompasses a significant number of enhancements. Among the additions are a rooftop banquet area, three state-of-the-art meeting rooms, and an exhibition and plenary lecture space capable of hosting 400 people, providing a total of 10,500m2 of new floor space. This significant expansion enables the Centre to accommodate multiple or larger events, with conferences and exhibitions for up to 2,500 guests possible across the entire venue.
“With face-to-face events more popular than ever, we have proactively equipped the venue with cutting-edge audiovisual equipment. This technology meets the needs of not just the many live events we host but also their hybrid and digital requirements. This ensures that every delegate, whether here in person or on the other side of the world, has an incredible event experience,” said Janet Hamilton, general manager at Cairns Convention Centre.
The new Trinity Level is a key part of the expansion, offering guests breathtaking views of two world heritage sites – the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. The Trinity Room, an ideal setting for gala dinners and large cocktail functions, can accommodate up to 500 people; while the outdoor Trinity Terrace offers panoramic views of the Trinity Inlet, providing a unique backdrop for cocktail functions, lunches, and other events seeking to embrace Cairns’ tropical climate.
The Centre’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship also remains unwavering. The expansion project incorporates numerous eco-conscious features such as high-performance glazing on the building, which increases energy efficiency by up to 30 per cent. Meanwhile, 1,200 sun blades and biophilic design living greenery over the facade reduce heat gain from the sun.
“Smart building management systems monitor and control power usage daily. All the lighting is high-efficiency LED with automated dimming control and motion sensors, we have solar-boosted hot water generation and energy-efficient fans and equipment. We are installing electric vehicle charging stations and priority is given to Energy Star ratings when buying new appliances,” added Hamilton.
