BTS21: The return of business events is a priority for the economy and industry

The success of the short lockdown in Brisbane across the weekend was a proactive move to circumvent a widespread outbreak.

HVIA Chief Executive Todd Hacking said the Queensland Government had readied itself for such circumstances and moved quickly to nip it in the bud, with the success achieving global recognition.

“While the temporary lockdown caused some inconvenience across business and the community, it was a pre-emptive and decisive move that gives confidence for longer term investment,” Mr Hacking said.

“Our priority is to ensure that we can host a successful Brisbane Truck Show in May and there is every reason to believe we will be able to deliver.

“The forecast for truck sales is for a good year in 2021 and operators will be looking forward to coming to Brisbane to see what is on offer.  Already we are being inundated with ticket enquiries, which go on sale soon.

“The Queensland Government, the City of Brisbane, the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre and other key stakeholders are doing everything in their power to ensure Brisbane is ready to host COVIDsafe major events.

“Our own preparation has been underway for the last twelve months, working closely with our contractors and suppliers such as Moreton Hire, Worklaw, Agility, Ozaccom+, and many others.”

Mr Hacking said the planning has addressed how public spaces will be managed for both the indoor and outdoor components of the show and its accompanying events and activations.

“This year will be a little bit different because the crowd will not be packed so tightly,  but visitors will be able to get up close to the new models and innovations,” he said.

“We are lucky enough to be hosting the Southern Hemisphere’s largest automotive event, in one of the world’s best convention centres and with South Bank hosting the Truck Festival, there will be plenty to see and do.

“Every aspect of the experience is being carefully planned with the safety and well-being of both exhibitors and our guests as the highest of priorities.

“Australians have been great at adapting their behaviour in public spaces to the new normal.

“With detailed guidelines in place for all aspects of the show, we have every reason to be confident that the 2021 Brisbane Truck Show will successfully deliver a rebirth to major Australian business events, by every measure.”