The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) has won its bid to host the 19th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-Retina Society (APVRS) Congress in 2026. The city has secured the event’s long-awaited return to Australia, its first since Sydney in 2015.
The APVRS Congress is a significant win for the Gold Coast, and set to attract more than 2,000 international authorities, researchers and practitioners in vitreoretinal diseases. The three-day conference, 28-30 August, is projected to deliver AUD$6.9m* in economic impact to the city.
Nick Jeffrey, general manager of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, said: “We are honoured to be recognised by the APVRS as the host venue for their 2026 Congress. This milestone not only highlights GCCEC’s reputation for world-class facilities and service but also reinforces the Gold Coast’s standing as a premier international destination. We look forward to welcoming delegates from across the globe and creating an exceptional environment for collaboration, innovation and discovery.”
Professor Andrew Chang, Congress president and secretary-general of APVRS, added: “The Gold Coast is an exceptional destination, offering a perfect blend of world-class meeting facilities and an inviting environment for delegates and their families to combine professional development with a memorable vacation.”
Tourism Australia managing director Robin Mack said supporting Gold Coast’s successful bid to host the APVRS Congress in 2026 via the Business Events Bid Fund Program was a massive opportunity for Australian tourism.
Mack said: “It’s a highly competitive industry, with destinations around the world vying for these lucrative events. The Bid Fund offers vital support at the critical bidding stage and has helped to secure prestigious events like APVRS Congress in 2026.”
Brooke Campbell, Director of Business Events at Experience Gold Coast, said: “Our city is home to a thriving health and knowledge precinct, world-class venues such as the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, and a spectacular natural backdrop.
“Together, these strengths provide the perfect stage for the Asia-Pacific Vitreo-Retina Society Congress in 2026, where delegates can collaborate, exchange knowledge and experience everything our vibrant destination has to offer.”
The Congress will feature scientific sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, advancing the field of vitreoretinal care. The APVRS 2026 Congress is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
* Source: Tourism and Events Queensland Interim Daily Delegate Rate for Queensland business events
