The Schrinner Council is calling on businesses and tourism operators to put forward their ideas to unlock even more opportunities on Brisbane’s river.
Last month, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner unveiled a plan to open Brisbane’s pontoons and jetties for more tourism and hospitality uses.
The next step involves gathering input to help design a new licensing or permit system, pending State Government approval, that will deliver world-class experiences on the water while keeping the river open for everyone to enjoy.
From food and beverage offerings to cultural activities, adventure sports and live entertainment, ideas are being sought from those who can help showcase Brisbane’s unique lifestyle on one of the city’s greatest assets.
With a network of existing assets and untapped opportunities, Brisbane has enormous potential to further transform the river.
Input from industry who use or want to use the river will help activate these facilities in ways that deliver the best outcomes for residents, visitors and businesses.
This process will shape a new lease and licensing framework that drives investment, gives operators certainty and ensures a diverse mix of experiences are available in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Weekday express CityCat services, including where and when they run, will also be part of the broader conversation about the future of the river.
Businesses interested in future opportunities on the Brisbane River are encouraged to register their interest and ideas by visiting Council’s website.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner:
“Brisbane’s river is a stage ready to host world-class experiences, but we can’t do it alone – we need the ideas and creativity of locals, businesses and entrepreneurs.
“Brisbane’s pontoons and jetties are an untapped platform for innovation, and we want to hear ideas that will not only set our city apart on the world stage but also create locally authentic experiences that residents can enjoy every day.
“We already know how popular our river is, from casual recreation through to operators like The Prawnster, but now is the time to broaden our horizons and reimagine what’s possible.
“This process will deliver a clear, fair and flexible licensing framework that makes it easier for operators to bring their ideas to life while ensuring Brisbane residents and visitors enjoy a rich variety of river-based activities.
“The new framework will give businesses the confidence to invest in exciting offerings, whether that’s dining cruises, cultural showcases, adventure sports or entertainment on the water.”
“With the Olympics and Paralympics less than a decade away, we want Brisbane’s river alive with activity that reflects our lifestyle, and creates more to see and do for residents and visitors.”



