Over the past twelve months it seems like the Nectar inbox has been inundated with opening invitations (#notcomplaining), so after perhaps a few too many welcome aperol spritzes and canvassing the team, we thought it was time to announce our own ‘Best of Brisbane’ for new event venues. brisbane venues

As a Queensland-based event agency we may be a little biased but we don’t think anyone is going to dispute that Brisbane is so hot right now!  The big country town is coming of age – and before we launch into the same old Sydney/Melbourne/somewhere suitably ‘cooler’ comparisons, we’re going to go out on a limb and say there is no comparison – this is the new Brisbane, taking on her own uniquely Queensland style and flaunting it for all she’s got. We can attest that Brisbane now has everything Sydney and Melbourne offer – except with better weather, friendlier people, less traffic and without the eye-watering hotel rates.  Is it time to take another look at Brisvegas? You bet it is.

brisbane venues

Howard Smith Wharves

Brisbane CBD

It could be argued that the new HSW precinct is not only breathing life into one of Brisbane’s significant historical sites but is now the unofficial ‘life and soul’ of Brisbane. With a spectacular riverfront location under the Story Bridge, the precinct is a destination in itself offering accommodation, conference and event space, craft brewery and fabulous dining all in the CBD.  The cleverly designed meeting space caters for events from 10 to 1000 all with natural light and those famous Brisbane river views. And dare we say it, the opening of HSW has almost single-handedly put Brisbane firmly on the incentive destination wish list with myriad ‘only in Brisbane’ wow event possibilities.

brisbane venues

W Brisbane

Brisbane CBD

There was a time when the words ‘Brisbane’ and ‘funky five-star hotel’ just didn’t go together.  The opening of the five-star luxury W Brisbane has solved the problem of where to have that creative launch or event with innovative design, clever AV, river views and that famous W quirk factor which embraces the best of the Sunshine State. The cleverly designed WET Deck Pool just oozes pool party as it morphs from pool, to bar, to sunset terrace with views to Southbank.  With event capacity for up to 750 guests and 312 accommodation rooms we predict the W Brisbane will become one of the city’s most popular conferencing hotels.

brisbane venues

Emporium Hotel Southbank

Southbank

We had mixed feelings about the Emporium name being taken off the Fortitude Valley boutique property we all knew and loved (now Ovolo The Valley) to take up residence in Southbank.  Any concerns it would lose its oasis-like feel however have been put to rest. Yes, it’s bigger and shinier but you’ll be surprised and delighted at every turn in this magnificent hotel; from the spectacular roof-top The Terrace bar, to stylish conference space and one of the most beautiful dining rooms and piano bars in Brisbane.  A short stroll from the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, it’s great to see a true five-star offering in Southbank for conference delegates. And did we mention the 21st floor infinity pool, the 250pax state-of-the-art conference space or the mirror that transforms into your in-room TV?  

brisbane venues

Fortitude Music Hall

Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Music Hall opened to much acclaim in July 2019, helped in part by the fact that ex-Powderfinger bassist John Collins is one of the driving forces behind the new venue.  Built to fill the gap left behind by Brisbane’s Festival Hall, this venue proves that live music venues don’t have to be grungy barren spaces you only want to see when the lights are off.  Drawing inspiration from Brisbane’s Art Deco theatres that were torn down in the 80s, the venue can hold up to 3000 people standing/ 1100 seated and offers a selection of smaller spaces, intimate lounge bars and a grand foyer ideal for corporate events.   FMH joins a host of other live music venues around Brisbane, testament to the city’s flourishing live music scene.

brisbane venues

The Calile Hotel

James Street, Fortitude Valley

If anywhere has captured the essence of the new Brisbane, it’s The Calile Hotel on Fortitude Valley’s James Street.  Embracing Brisbane’s sub-tropical climate yet effortlessly assimilating into its urban surrounds, The Calile Hotel is so achingly on-trend it almost hurts.  Walking into The Calile is reminiscent of stepping into a resort with ‘look at me’ pool, luxe lobby bar, outdoor dining, boutique shopping, spa and breezy spaces.  They’ve also thought carefully about their event space with a grand ballroom for up to 500 people, outdoor amphitheatre space and many poolside options. 

Looking for a conference or event venue in Brisbane?  We can help! As a Brisbane-based event planner we know Brisbane and can help with venue sourcing, onsite event management, registration and programming.

Thinking about Brisbane for your next incentive? Contact us for more information on programs that will motivate and inspire!