Star open to talks on Gold Coast convention centre expansion
A Star executive says the casino operator would be ‘very open’ to talks about investing in an expansion of the Gold Coast Convention Centre — as long as something else happens first.
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STAR Entertainment Group Queensland managing director Geoff Hogg is willing to talk to State Government about investing in an expansion of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach, but also wants “certainty” about the city’s second casino debate.
Mr Hogg said the Star, which manages the centre on behalf of the state, is supportive of upgrading it and boosting convention events and visitors.
Mr Hogg said there is an opportunity for the Gold Coast to accommodate more businesses looking to hold conventions on the Glitter Strip.
“The convention centre needs to expand to accommodate those major (business) groups,” he said.
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He added the State Government needed to clear up “uncertainty” over its Global Tourism Hub and second casino process.
“If at the end of the day that does go away, that sends a clear message to us to focus on competing with other cities and driving tourism,” he said.
“If that leads to a conversation with State Government about (upgrading) the convention centre, we are very open.”
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Mayor Tom Tate said State Government delays to an $85 million upgrade were “foolish”.
“I don’t know what to put the reluctance (from government) down to. Whether they don’t understand the people on the Gold Coast need it or is it the arrogance of it,” Cr Tate said.
“The question to ask is: why wouldn’t you do it? If you delay it, that just proves you’re a fool. Get on with it.”
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