Brisbane Entertainment Centre Defended Amid Calls for Demolition

Queensland entertainment mogul Harvey Lister has responded to recent calls to demolish the Brisbane Entertainment Centre (BEC) in Boondall, defending the venue’s place in the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape.


Read: Kylie Minogue to Celebrate Decades of Hits on the ‘Tension Tour’ at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre


The BEC, built on swampland in 1986, has been a key part of Brisbane’s identity for nearly four decades. However, it has faced criticism due to logistical challenges over the years. 

Brisbane Entertainment
Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre/Facebook

Last week, Hutchinson Builders chairman Scott Hutchinson stirred controversy by offering to demolish the venue for free, arguing that a fresh approach to Brisbane’s entertainment infrastructure is needed.

Hutchinson has also shared his vision for improving Brisbane’s music infrastructure, including his proposal for Riverstage. Hutchinson argues that Riverstage, currently an outdoor venue, requires significant upgrades, including a roof over the band area to improve weather protection, along with better sound infrastructure to prevent noise spillover into nearby areas like Kangaroo Point.

Lister, whose Legends ASM events company manages several Brisbane venues, including the BEC, called the proposal to demolish the 13,000-capacity venue “reckless.” He emphasised the venue’s ongoing success, which has been bolstered by a recent report from Billboard magazine, ranking the BEC among the most successful mid-sized indoor venues in the world.

Brisbane Entertainment
Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre/Facebook

Lister further pointed to the venue’s upcoming year, with over 750,000 people expected to attend in 2025.

The BEC earned global recognition in Billboard’s 2024 rankings, placing 15th worldwide for concert gross revenue among mid-sized venues and 9th for hosting 76 concerts that year. Venue general manager Patricia McNamara echoed Lister’s sentiments, describing the venue as “going from strength to strength.”

Despite criticisms, McNamara highlighted improvements to issues such as access and transport connectivity over the years, noting that patrons continue to enjoy the venue.


Read: 2025 Billie Eilish Tour Brings Sustainability to Brisbane Entertainment Centre


Upcoming events at the BEC include major performances by Billie Eilish, Drake, Kylie Minogue, and Chris Stapleton, alongside family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and The Wiggles. The Brisbane Bullets have also seen a 31 percent increase in crowd numbers since returning to the venue this season. Other events this year include Frozen, monster trucks, indoor motocross, and Les Miserables.

Originally conceived as part of Brisbane’s bid for the 1996 Olympics, the BEC will also host handball competitions during the 2032 Olympic Games.

Lister’s stance reaffirms the BEC’s status as one of Queensland’s most successful and beloved entertainment venues, ensuring its place in the city’s future.

Published 24-January-2025

2025 Billie Eilish Tour Brings Sustainability to Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Global music phenomenon Billie Eilish is set to return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in February 2025 as part of her highly anticipated “Hit Me Hard And Soft” world tour, marking her second major visit to the city after her acclaimed 2022 performances.



Eilish’s 2025 tour promises to build on the magic of 2022 while adding new dimensions. Set to perform four shows at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre (18, 19, 21, and 22 February), Eilish will debut songs from “Hit Me Hard And Soft” alongside her iconic hits. 

A Focus on Sustainability

Eilish’s commitment to sustainability will be a cornerstone of the tour, with several initiatives designed to reduce its environmental impact. The partnership with environmental nonprofit REVERB will see the introduction of “Eco-Villages” at the venue. These hubs will allow fans to participate in climate-focused activities and learn more about sustainability efforts.

The tour aims to minimise single-use plastics, promote plant-based food options, and encourage the use of public transport to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Special “Changemaker Tickets” will be available, with a portion of proceeds supporting OzHarvest and other charities addressing food insecurity and the climate crisis.

Billie Eilish
Photo Credit: Raph_PH/CC-BY-2.0

“Hit Me Hard And Soft” Set List

Fans can expect a 26-song setlist featuring new tracks like “CHIHIRO” and “THE DINER,” as well as collaborations such as “Guess” with Charli XCX and “Lovely” with Khalid. With all Australian shows confirmed as all-ages events, this is a concert experience Brisbane won’t want to miss.

  1. “Chihiro”
  2. “Lunch”
  3. “NDA”
  4. “Therefore I Am”
  5. “Wildflower”
  6. “When the Party’s Over”
  7. “The Diner”
  8. “Ilomilo”
  9. “Bad Guy”
  10. “The Greatest”
  11. “Male Fantasy”
  12. “Skinny”
  13. “TV”
  14. “Bury a Friend”
  15. “Oxytocin”
  16. “You Should See Me in a Crown”
  17. “Guess”
  18. “Everything I Wanted”
  19. “Blue”
  20. “Lovely” / “Idontwannabeyouanymore” / “Ocean Eyes”
  21. “L’Amour de Ma Vie” / “Over Now” (extended edit)
  22. “What Was I Made For?”
  23. “Happier Than Ever”
  24. “Birds of a Feather”

Who Is Billie Eilish?

Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell has emerged as one of the defining artists of her generation. Born in Los Angeles in 2001, Eilish first gained global recognition at 15 with her breakout single “Ocean Eyes.” Known for her ethereal vocals, introspective lyrics, and bold aesthetic choices, she has continuously redefined pop music.

Her debut album, “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?,” skyrocketed her to superstardom in 2019, sweeping the Grammys and solidifying her status as a musical innovator. She followed up with “Happier Than Ever” in 2021, exploring themes of fame and self-identity with a more mature sound. Now, with her third album, “Hit Me Hard And Soft” out since May 2024, Eilish continues to push boundaries, blending her signature style with new sonic landscapes.

Beyond her music, Eilish is an outspoken advocate for sustainability, mental health, and inclusivity, connecting deeply with fans worldwide. Her ability to remain authentic while evolving artistically has earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.

A Look Back at 2022: Brisbane’s Electrifying Night with Billie

Billie Eilish’s 2022 Happier Than Ever tour stop at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre was nothing short of magical. The September concert drew 13,500 fans into an intimate yet exhilarating experience. Eilish opted for a minimalist stage setup, allowing her music and charisma to take centre stage.

Opening with “Bury a Friend,” Eilish transitioned seamlessly into hits like “bad guy,” “Happier Than Ever,” and fan favourites such as “Ocean Eyes” and “Lovely.” The stripped-back moments, including an acoustic duet with her brother and collaborator Finneas, showcased her raw vocal power.



Fans were awestruck by Eilish’s energy, charm, and relatability. Her heartfelt message about kindness and inclusivity resonated deeply, creating a sense of community. The night ended with confetti and cheers, leaving a lasting impression on Brisbane’s music scene.

Published 20-January-2025