Australia’s Star Entertainment Group will close its long-standing Treasury Brisbane Casino on August 25, preparing for the grand opening of the AU$3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf Brisbane. This development, which will debut on August 29, marks a significant transformation in Brisbane’s entertainment landscape.
Treasury Brisbane’s Closure: A Historic Shift
The closing of Treasury Brisbane represents the end of an era for Brisbane’s casino and entertainment scene. Established as a cornerstone of local nightlife, Treasury Brisbane has served as a pivotal venue for gaming and entertainment. Its closure signifies not just a physical move but a broader shift towards modernizing and expanding Brisbane’s hospitality offerings. As the city bids farewell to its historic casino, the transition sets the stage for a new chapter in luxury and entertainment.
Introducing Queen’s Wharf Brisbane
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, soon to be rebranded as The Star Brisbane, is set to become a major landmark in the city’s entertainment sector. With an investment of AU$3.6 billion, this development aims to offer a range of sophisticated attractions and amenities. The phased opening of Queen’s Wharf will begin on August 29, with initial features including a state-of-the-art gaming floor, the Star Grand Hotel, an event center, and the Sky Deck public viewing platform. The new complex will also feature various bars and restaurants, along with a pedestrian bridge and bikeway. Subsequent phases will gradually introduce more dining options, retail spaces, and a large public area throughout September and October.
Major Stakeholders and Investment Partners
The Queen’s Wharf Brisbane project is a collaboration among several major entities, reflecting a substantial commitment to the city’s future. Star Entertainment Group holds a 50% stake, bringing its extensive expertise in entertainment and gaming. Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, a prominent Hong Kong-based jewelry conglomerate, and Far East Consortium, an international real estate firm, each own a 25% share. These stakeholders are instrumental in shaping the project’s vision and execution, aiming to deliver a world-class destination that integrates luxury, entertainment, and public accessibility.
Navigating Regulatory Challenges
The development of Queen’s Wharf Brisbane has encountered significant regulatory scrutiny. Chow Tai Fook Enterprises faced investigations by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) over alleged links to Asian-based junkets. Despite these concerns, recent findings cleared Chow Tai Fook to maintain its involvement in the project, as the OLGR determined there was insufficient evidence to deem the company unsuitable. In contrast, Star Entertainment Group continues to navigate its own regulatory challenges. A recent inquiry into the company’s suitability to hold a casino license for The Star Sydney in New South Wales (NSW) is expected to be made public soon, following earlier investigations into its operational practices.
Impact on Brisbane’s Entertainment Landscape
The closure of Treasury Brisbane and the upcoming launch of Queen’s Wharf Brisbane represent a major evolution in Brisbane’s entertainment and hospitality sectors. The new development is anticipated to offer numerous benefits, including a significant economic boost through tourism and job creation. By replacing the older Treasury Brisbane with a modern and expansive venue, the city aims to enhance its appeal as a premier destination for both local residents and international visitors.
The transition also underscores the ongoing regulatory changes affecting the Australian casino industry. With increased scrutiny and evolving standards, the shift from Treasury Brisbane to Queen’s Wharf Brisbane highlights the industry’s focus on compliance and innovation.
As Brisbane prepares for the grand opening of Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, the city is on the brink of a transformative period in its entertainment and hospitality sectors. The phased introduction of the new development will ensure a smooth transition from the old to the new, setting a high standard for future projects.
With its substantial investment, modern facilities, and comprehensive amenities, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is poised to become a landmark attraction in the city. The closure of Treasury Brisbane and the opening of this new development mark a significant milestone, reflecting both the evolution of Brisbane’s entertainment landscape and the broader trends within the Australian casino industry.