Between now and June 2025, the Cairns Convention Centre in Queensland, Australia estimates it will attract over 21,000 delegates both domestic and international. Recently, the Viruses of Microbes (VoM) 2024 Conference was held for the first time outside Europe, attracting over 500 global experts in microbial virology. The upcoming XVI. Quark Confinement and the Hadron Spectrum (QCHSC) 2024 Conference with attract over 500 delegates. Jeremy Barr, associate professor from Monash University and co-chair of VoM said gave a glowing report: “Cairns’ unique wildlife, scenery, and setting offer a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s rare to have a conference on a tropical coral reef with a rainforest above. [Cairns’] relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and Australian culture enhanced the experience for international delegates. The world-class facilities at the Cairns Convention Centre are among the country’s best, and Cairns regional character maintains a local, connected feel for the meeting. It’s been an optimal location for a conference; we couldn’t have asked for anything better.” Dr. Ayse Kizilersu from the University of Adelaide, School of Physical Sciences, who is leading the organisation of the event, commented: “We are delighted to be heading to Cairns in August. Both the venue and destination offer incredible appeal to our delegates, ensuring a high level of attendance from around the world.” Mark Olsen, Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO, noted: “[We] were delighted to support The Viruses of Microbes Conference, which brought more than 500 global delegates to the only place with two World Heritage areas side by side. The delegates were wowed by offsite events such as the gala dinner at Rainforestation where they dined in the rainforest, experienced indigenous culture, and interacted with local wildlife.” Moving in 2025, the Centre will host the Congress of the Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association. Other notable upcoming conferences include:
- TravelManagers Australia Conference featuring Olympic Champion Cathy Freeman, September 2024
- Australasian Genomic Technologies Association Annual Conference, October 2024
- Australian Archaeological Association Annual Conference, December 2024
- Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Annual Scientific Meeting, May 2025
