The Australia-New Zealand joint bid beat off strong bids from India, Ireland and Morocco and is an apt location for Australia as Queensland was the site of the country’s first commercial hydrocarbon discovery.

In a statement, delighted Queensland Premier Peter Beattie said, “It will be held at [the] Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre and is expected to attract at least 5,000 delegates from about 100 countries. The Smart State has an outstanding reputation for hosting international events [and] this conference will further position Queensland at the forefront of the knowledge economy.”

“The theme of the conference will be ‘Unearthing our Past and Future’ and will benefit Queensland through new research alliances, industry and business based investments, career opportunities for budding young scientists and economic gains for the tourism industry,” added Beattie.

According to Geoscience Australia Dr Neil Williams, “The assistance provided by Queensland had been crucial in winning the bid. Factors which worked in Queensland’s favour include the region’s active geoscience community, the strong and committed organising committee, support from the Queensland Government and, of course, Brisbane’s great weather and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and other features.”

“Delegates will be able to enjoy our world-class accommodation and restaurants. Benefits of the congress will be distributed across the state with many field trips planned in Queensland's geologically abundant regional areas,” added Williams who is also the President of the Australian IGC Preparatory Committee.

The IGC, dubbed the “Geology Olympic Games” is held once every four years and has been held only once previously in Australia in its 124-year history; Sydney, 1976. The 33rd IGC in 2008 will be held in Oslo, Norway.