AUSTRALIA - GM of the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC), Robert O’Keeffe, said the centre’s event spaces have been “unaffected” by the recent widespread flooding of southwest Queensland, Brisbane and northern New South Wales.
In a statement addressing clients and the events industry, O’Keeffe assured that the impact of the flood waters, which closed the centre for over a week, was less than anticipated. The centre, however, will remain closed for its clean up until at least 21 January.
O’Keeffe said the water intrusion was limited to car parking and some service areas. “Thanks to the wonderful spirit and commitment of the centre’s staff, many of whom worked throughout the weekend to assist with the clean up, we are working towards a gradual return to business by the end of the week,” he added.
“All electronic, IT and AV equipment, some of which was moved to higher levels as soon as the threat was first apparent, has now been returned and our IT network is up and running,” he said.
The centre’s telephone number had been redirected to the head office of the Centre’s venue management group, AEG Ogden, but is due to be reconnected today (17 January).
“Power has been restored to more than 80 per cent of businesses and main access roads reopened,” O’Keeffe added.
The flooding, which covered an area estimated to be the size of France and Germany together, is estimated to have killed at least 31 people with many more missing. Over 200,000 people have been affected by this natural disaster and the clean up cost is estimated at AU$20bn (US$20bn).
Has your event been affected by the flooding in Australia? If so, email exhibitionworld@mashmedia.net
