David Williams reflects again upon how a major event can transform a location's popular image. He notes that major events are drivers of tourism, investment and population growth. He comments on the investment by many cities into convention centres and associated tourism services.
David Williams details how major events help locations to refashion their image and rejuvenate infrastructure. He cites Brisbane's example in discussing changes underway in both Glasgow and the Gold Coast in preparation for hosting the Commonwealth Games. He adds that the Gold Coast faces particular challenges to incorporate cultural elements into its Games program.
David Williams describes how governments use events and tourism campaigns to shape public perceptions of particular places. He notes the growth of intense competition between cities and states to attract events that help create a certain image of different locations. He reflects on the short and long-term economic benefits of hosting events and attracting tourists, and how political leaders have used this to the state's advantage.
David Williams outlines his return to Queensland in 1989 to head the new Queensland Events Corporation for the state government, by then led by Labor premier Wayne Goss. He describes the state government's eagerness to capitalise on successful events such as the Commonwealth Games and the 1988 World Expo. He explains that within four years he had been appointed as a Director General in the public service.
David Williams describes how he accepted a position in 1985 as head of the Department of Sport & Recreation in Tasmania under Liberal premier Robin Gray. He recalls how he had gained a reputation in sports management after involvement in the staging of the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games and on the committee organising Brisbane's bid for the 1992 Olympics.
Wallace Trohear explains how he became active in the union movement in Brisbane, Australia, through his nomination to the Brisbane local branch committee of the BWIU.
