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Built Environment Collective CEO, John Tuxworth had the privilege of attending a wonderful afternoon tea at the Queensland Government’s Parliamentary Annexe, hosted by the Honourable Andrew Powell MP GAICD, Minister for the Environment & Tourism, and Minister for Science & Innovation.

The occasion was held to honour @His Excellency Mr Ali Saad Mohamed Habab Al-Hajri, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Australia, and brought together a fantastic group of Queensland-based professionals with strong ties to the Middle East, including Shaun Munday (Managing Director, Place Design Group), Samuel Mayze (Managing Partner, UAP Middle East), and Despina Macris (Director, Dotdash).

His Excellency expressed enthusiasm about the exciting opportunities surrounding the Brisbane 2032 Olympics & Paralympic Games. He shared insights from Qatar’s experience in hosting major international sporting events and developing world-class stadia and highlighted the growing collaboration between Australia and the Middle East in areas like innovation, design, and infrastructure.

John had the pleasure of engaging in meaningful discussions with His Excellency, Tim Klar (CEO of QSport), and Heidi Cooper (CEO of Business Chamber Queensland) about the planning for the Games—where we focused on the importance of urgency, transparency, and sustainability in delivery.

On a lighter note, Daniel Yelf (Brisbane Airport Corporation) and John shared some stories about our favoured airline and airport experiences, while Dr Nora Amath from Islamophobia Australia offered invaluable insights on cultural heritage and the experiences of the Vietnamese community.

A big thank you to the Queensland Government for the invitation and for facilitating such an enriching exchange of ideas.