Gold Coast scores first major conference since COVID hit

Sunset over the city of Gold Coast looking from the south, Queensland, Australia

The Gold Coast’s business events pipeline is set to grow, as Queensland welcomes back all states and territories after months of COVID disruption to announce a major international conference.

The Gold Coast will welcome more than 1,000 delegates for the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) Biennial Congress in March 2023.

The bid was secured by Destination Gold Coast in partnership with Tourism Australia support by the Business Events Bid Fund Program, and Tourism & Events Queensland, and will be hosted at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Destination Gold Coast CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said the event is expected to inject $2.4 million into Gold Coast’s economy, and will bring together chiropractic association leaders and executives worldwide to share best practice experiences, cultivate networks and explore areas of innovation.

“We’re delighted with the outcome of a collaborative bid with our industry partners to attract this highly-regarded international congress and we look forward to welcoming these delegates to the Gold Coast,” she said.

Securing the event is a major milestone for the city after enduring months of hardship impacting both tourism and business events as a result of COVID-19 shutdowns and travel restrictions.

O’Callaghan said kickstarting the recovery of business events is a priority for the Gold Coast, as interconnected industries are set to benefit from a pipeline of upcoming domestic and international conferences.

“Prior to the pandemic, Gold Coast’s business events market share increased by five per cent to generate a staggering $570 million in economic impact,” she said.

“Our city is moving forward after an unprecedented year of challenges, and we’re buoyed by the continued interest and confidence from associations choosing the Gold Coast for future conferences.

“The Gold Coast remains one of the world’s most desirable destinations for delegates to meet, offering COVID-safe spacious and adaptive venues that are ready to offer a haven for delegates, backed up by incredible experiences, attractions and natural beauty.”

WFC secretary-general Dr Richard Brown said the federation was delighted to be partnering with the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) to host the Biennial WFC Congress on the Gold Coast.

“The Gold Coast is a fantastic location within a nation where chiropractic is a highly utilised and valued service,” he said.

ACA chief executive Dr Matthew Fisher said the Gold Coast is a perfect destination for overseas delegates and Australians alike.

“We are proud to host in 2023 in what we hope is the confident recommencement of safe international events where ideas are exchanged, and networks strengthened through research, education and meetings,” he said.


Featured image source: iStock/zstockphotos

Latest News