Destination Brisbane Consortium (DBC) has appointed veteran gaming and hospitality executive Justin Casey as Chief Operating Officer to oversee strategy and operations across the AU$3.6 billion ($2.35 billion) Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct, following the consortium’s recent consolidation of ownership of the development.
According to a media release issued on Thursday, Casey officially stepped into the role in February and will help lead DBC’s transition from a development-focused organisation into a fully integrated owner-operator.
The appointment comes after DBC completed a refinancing and equity transaction in March that enabled its shareholders — Hong Kong-listed Far East Consortium International and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises — to consolidate full ownership of the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane development following the exit of former partner The Star Entertainment Group.
DBC Chair and Executive Director Wendy Chiu said the appointment strengthens the consortium’s operational leadership at a “pivotal time” for the precinct.
“Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is one of Australia’s most significant tourism, leisure and entertainment destinations,” Chiu said.
“The appointment of Justin as COO ensures we have strong leadership capability, supporting me to drive this vision and deliver a world-class integrated resort experience, alongside strong governance and regulatory alignment.”
Casey brings more than 35 years of experience across the gaming, hospitality and tourism industries, including senior roles at Crown Resorts Australia, Wynn Resorts Macau and Galaxy Entertainment Group Macau.
“It’s an incredible privilege to join DBC at such an important juncture in its journey,” Casey said.
Spanning more than 12 hectares along Brisbane’s riverfront, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane includes hotels, gaming facilities, retail, dining and public spaces, and is considered one of Australia’s largest tourism and entertainment developments.
