Games boss urges Queensland to shine bright

Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee CEO Cindy Hook. | Newsreel
Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee CEO Cindy Hook at the QUT Business Leaders' Forum. | Photo: Supplied by QUT

By Steve Zeppa

Queensland’s heritage, natural wonder, welcoming nature and sense of ambition are set to feature in the branding of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee CEO Cindy Hook provided guests at today’s QUT Business Leaders Forum with a sneak peek at the brand messaging being worked on, with a highlights video suggesting we ‘shine brightest together’.

Ms Hook said the committee had been conducting brand research for more than a year, which had found that Brisbane was not well known around the world.

“This is a great opportunity,” she said.

“Our research found Brisbane is proud of its cultural heritage and proud of nature and the natural environment.”

Ms Hook said the state also valued our welcoming people and sense of inclusiveness.

“There is also ambition in Brisbane, that we want to be known for more than we are.”

Ms Hook also flagged the launch of a new website to push the brand message.

In the wide-ranging Q&A session at the Forum, Ms Hook would not been drawn on the current debate around Olympic venues.

She said the committee would work with whatever the Government provided, with her priority being that all venues were safe and accessible.

“If Brisbane is a growing city that needs a new stadium, then speak up, but it is up to the Government to decide.”

She said the committee has yet to see any plans for the proposed upgrade to the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC), but would assess them when received.

“Let’s wait and see,” she said.

Ms Hook said we should not lose focus on the venues that have been decided on, such as Brisbane Live in Roma Street and five new indoor sport arenas.

She also urged people to be patient around the general Games planning.

“A lot of my time focusses on pacing. I need to look at cost structures and decide what needs to be done know and what can be done later.”

Ms Hook said she was presented with many great ideas, which would be considered at the right time.