NEW CAIRNS PLANS UNVEILED

THE first concept images of the $176m overhaul of the Cairns Convention Centre have been revealed by Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt.

Once completed in 2019, the centre is expected to attract an extra 25 large conventions per year through the addition of a new 3,000m2 exhibition hall and supporting plenary space.

One of the key features of the multi-million dollar makeover is a sweeping floor-to-ceiling glass atrium that will welcome delegates into the venue.

The atrium will create an arc extending out to Wharf St, where the preferred site of the new exhibition hall is located.

Pitt said the expansion project was part of the revival of the Cairns city centre.

“I want it to make a lasting impression on international visitors so that they go home raving about the conferences and events we host,” he said.

Cairns Convention Centre gm Ross Steele estimates the new exhibition space will add $30m in additional economic benefit to the region each year.

Construction will begin after the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

MEANWHILE Cairns will host Queensland’s biggest annual gathering of the international education and training (IET) industry in May 2018.

It will be held just before the Cairns Convention Centre renovations begin.

The inaugural IET was held this year on the Gold Coast and attracted more than 320 industry representatives.