GETTING 'G20 READY'

TOURISM and hospitality workers in Brisbane have completed a free program to ensure they are ‘G20 ready’.

More than 500 workers came together for training sessions to ensure their interpersonal skills are in check and they can manage the needs of world leaders, 4000 delegates and 3000 media representatives at the November G20 Leaders summit.

Lord mayor Graham Quirk says more than 50 organisations have taken  part in the Brisbane Welcomes the World training from organisations including Emporium Hotel, Queensland Museum, GOMA and Black & White Cabs.

The program is delivered via face-to-face sessions and online modules.  

“It’s great to see how industry has embraced this opportunity, and the number of concierges, taxi drivers, retail staff, tourism operators and volunteers who have taken part in Brisbane Welcomes the World training to date and have booked for future sessions between now and G20,” says Quirk.

He says it is one of six major G20 initiatives to leverage the benefits of the rare opportunity to promote Brisbane as “welcoming destination with a compassionate spirit” on a global scale.

“The aim is to give visitors a personal connection with our city, culture and events that will stay with them forever, and that we hope they will share with colleagues, friends and family.

“One of Brisbane’s best assets is its friendly, caring community and envious lifestyle and the Brisbane Welcomes the World program encourages participants to think about what makes the city special and how they can share it with visitors.”

Quirk also says some of the organisations that have taken part in the training have been so impressed in its delivery that they are looking to incorporate it into future staff development courses post-summit.

Brisbane Welcomes the World training is being delivered by economic development board Brisbane Marketing and supported by venue partner QUT. 

Anyone within the local tourism industry can participate in the program. To find out more, click through to Visit Brisbane