The Legacy of the IAQ Assembly 2025: Shaping Queensland's Future

The IAQ Assembly 2025 brought together over 200 industry leaders, innovators, and collaborators for a day filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration. With the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games firmly in the spotlight, the Assembly explored the possibilities when Queensland’s infrastructure sector unites to create a lasting legacy.

Gold Medal Moments

One of the standout sessions of the day featured a live Q&A with two legendary athletes: Chris Bond OAM PLY, a Paralympic wheelchair rugby champion, and Logan Martin OAM OLY, an Olympic BMX freestyle gold medallist.

Supported by 4020 Consult, this engaging 25-minute discussion provided the audience with a rare behind-the-scenes look at their experiences during the Games. They shared stories about celebrity sightings, the Covid Olympics, and even those infamous “sexless” beds in Paris. Both athletes offered powerful anecdotes that resonated beyond the realm of sports, touching on themes of resilience, focus, and legacy.

Big Themes from the Day

Speakers throughout the Assembly emphasized the opportunities and responsibilities that Queensland faces as it approaches 2032:

• Gerard Coggan, Queensland Government’s Coordinator-General, reminded attendees that there are just over 2,500 days left to deliver not only a world-class event but also a legacy of liveability, productivity, and sustainability.

• Simon Crooks, CEO of GIICA, revealed plans for 17 sporting venues, with staggered openings designed to integrate facilities into local communities well before 2032.

• Scott Smith, CEO of the Council of Mayors (SEQ), highlighted the once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape Queensland’s infrastructure and environment.

• Timothy Hortz, Executive Director for Games Infrastructure, emphasized that inclusivity is central to the Games’ legacy.

• Baringa Barambah Meeanjinu, Founder and Director at Yadeni Consulting, challenged the industry to ensure Indigenous culture and traditions are proudly represented on the global stage.

  
  

Silver and Bronze Highlights

🥈 The Hackathon with ODAPTIC – Assembly attendees collaborated in real time to explore insights from IAQ’s second Queensland Infrastructure Pipeline Report. With creative energy, doodles, and even some DJ skills, the session transformed ideas into action in a uniquely interactive manner.

🥉 Rhyl Jones McCoy’s presentation on Swimmable Cities – This thought-provoking look at the future of Brisbane’s waterways drew on her international experiences and sparked discussions about what is possible here at home.

A Gold Standard Assembly

4020 Consult is proud to have once again supported IAQ in delivering an event that not only inspired but also challenged us to think bigger about Queensland’s future.

Celebrating Team Efforts

A huge congratulations to Tracy Mackey, Kim Ellis, Lauren Ashmole, and Zoe Armstrong for their hard work in bringing the Assembly to life. Special thanks to Nectar Creative Communications for their seamless event delivery.

Looking Ahead to 2032

The countdown to Brisbane 2032 is on. If the conversations at IAQ Assembly 2025 are any indication, Queensland is poised to set a new benchmark for legacy and liveability. The commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive future is evident. As we move forward, it is essential to keep the momentum going and engage all stakeholders in this journey.

The Importance of Collaboration

Collaboration is key to achieving the ambitious goals set for the upcoming Games. By working together, we can ensure that the infrastructure developed will benefit not just the athletes but also the local communities. This is an opportunity to create spaces that foster connection, health, and well-being for all.

Embracing Innovation

Innovation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Queensland. By embracing new technologies and ideas, we can enhance the experience of the Games and leave a lasting impact. The Assembly showcased numerous innovative approaches that can be applied to various sectors, ensuring that Queensland remains at the forefront of development.

Engaging the Community

Community engagement is vital in the lead-up to the Games. It is essential to involve local residents in the planning and development processes. By listening to their needs and aspirations, we can create a legacy that resonates with everyone. The Assembly highlighted the importance of community input in shaping a brighter future for Queensland.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

As we reflect on the insights shared during the IAQ Assembly 2025, it is clear that Queensland is on the path to greatness. The commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation will pave the way for a successful 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. Together, we can create a legacy that future generations will cherish.

The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are endless. Let’s continue to work together to make Queensland a shining example of what can be achieved when we unite for a common goal.