Northern Bus Tunnel

The Northern Bus Tunnel

The opportunity to work in unique and interesting locations, and the fresh challenges that these can often provide is one thing that drives a lot of people in the events industry. And once again this was the case for a Noble Event, when we were contracted to supply audio/visual production for the grand opening of the Inner Northern Busway. Located under King George Square in Brisbane City, the INB is a 150 metre long tunnel that features multiple bus stops on either side of a four lane carriageway. Measuring only 15 metres wide, and separated by a 2 metre wide concrete barrier, the transformation of this tunnel into a fully catered gala event space for 1200 guests was always going to be a challenge.

 Add to this the fact that due to the concrete barrier, and limited width of the space, the end tables of the dining area would be up to 100 metres away from the stage and you start to get an idea of the inherent difficulties.

 Working closely with the Event Producer DG Global, a Noble Event was tasked with providing production solutions that ensured all guests enjoyed the same event experience, regardless of their seating position on the night. Featuring the comical, and sometimes irreverent Peter Rowsthorne as MC, the event offered up a program that was very entertainment focused. Brisbane’s own electric/classical trio Maske opened up proceedings in stunning fashion, whilst after mains were served, American artist Brian Olsen amazed guests with his very physical “Art in Motion” performance.

 A charity auction was also conducted after this performance, which saw all three of Brian’s portraits, plus an earlier painting of the INB site go under the hammer for very high bids. Shannon Noel and band then provided the opportunity for everyone to “Rock Out”, which given the surroundings seemed to fit, because by the end of the night most of the guests were in front of the stage, fists pumping in the air.

Apart from the extensive lighting and audio systems installed for the event, and with such a variety of entertainment on offer, it was extremely important that everyone was able to see the stage area throughout the night. To this end, three large projection screens were set on truss frames and positioned in relay down the middle of the tunnel, whilst a further six plasma panels bordered the sides of the dining area. With corporate and sponsor logos, video replay, and live images coming from two cameras, this system proved to be a very successful component of the night and ensured that nobody missed any of the action on the night. With several other tunnels already under construction, it seems that we may have not seen the last tunnel opening event in Brisbane. So we look forward to seeing you next time….underground!

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