On 2 June 2026, we hosted our half-day program Ahead of the Game to help local businesses build capability, sharpen their competitive edge and position themselves for growth.

As Queensland enters a period of rapid economic development, with new opportunities emerging across infrastructure, film and TV, and tourism, the conversation for businesses needs to go beyond tenders and contracts and focus on what comes next.

At the event, it was clear that the next decade provides an opportunity to reshape how we work, collaborate and position ourselves on the global stage.

Hearing from John Warn from Experience Gold Coast, Schuyler Weiss from Bazmark, Laura Maxwell from News Corp and Dominique Lamb from Brisbane2032, one message came through strongly: success will depend on how well we work together. The scale of the opportunity is simply too big for any one organisation to tackle alone. Partnerships, collaborations and unexpected alliances will be what set businesses apart.

There was also a strong sense of urgency. The businesses that will thrive in the next decade are the ones who are already preparing by identifying skills gaps, investing in capability, and building the systems they’ll need to deliver at scale. Just as importantly, they’re building networks now, not later.

Perhaps most importantly, there was a reminder to think bigger than events such as Brisbane 2032. The real goal isn’t just to be part of the “circus” while it’s in town, but to ensure businesses are stronger, more connected and more competitive long after it leaves.

A big thank you to our event series sponsors who supported us yesterday and as we roll out the Ahead of the Games series across Queensland – Australian Made Campaign, Constant Contact and Gold Coast Bulletin. Thanks also to The Fair Co. and Ruby Fox for hosting workshops on the day.