Gold Coast has recorded a positive upward trend towards association meetings, with figures released revealing a 19 per cent increase for the 12 months to June 30, 2018, for the Australian resort city.
Data compiled for the Queensland Business Events Survey has indicated that 313 associations met on the Gold Coast in the last financial year, up significantly from the 263 conferences recorded in the previous 12 months.
Anna Case, executive director of business events at Destination Gold Coast, said the city appealed to associations because of the diverse offerings of the destination and the welcome extended to delegates when they gather on the Gold Coast.
“Tourism and hospitality is in our DNA on the Gold Coast, and our industry partners know how to deliver an exceptional business event,” Case said.
“Our world-class welcome is delivered with down-to-earth hospitality and association delegates also enjoy our coastal lifestyle, professional meeting venues and memorable experiences the city offers for conferences.”
More conferences confirmed in recent months represent an estimated economic impact of over A$3.5m for the Gold Coast.
Recent association bid wins include:
* Australian Archaeological Association – 400 delegates in 2019
* 28th World Congress for Medical Law – 400 delegates in 2022
* National Franchise Convention – 500 delegates in 2019
* 9th World Rett Syndrome Congress – 350 delegates in 2020
