Independent PR agency Thrive PR + Communications has announced the launch of its fifth office, opening its doors permanently on the Gold Coast and making multiple team appointments.

In response to client demand, and embracing the growth of Australia’s emerging innovation hotspot, the Gold Coast will be Thrive’s second Queensland location following the opening of its Brisbane office in 2016.

The agency’s other locations are in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland.

Located in the heart of the CBD, Thrive’s Southport location will service a number of new clients who will be announced next month, strengthening the agency’s ties with travel, tourism and property PR.

Thrive has also appointed its newest Gold Coast member, Chanelle Mihailoff, who brings extensive knowledge and experience in tourism, major events, hospitality, corporate comms and community relations.

Mihailoff’s team also includes Melbourne-based ‘Thriver’ Madison O’Riordan, who will transition permanently to the Brisbane office next month.

Thrive managing director Leilani Abels said: “Queensland is the international gateway to Asia and a key state for our agency.

“Our clients want to engage more at a community level and want specialists who have an intimate understanding of the differences between states and communities.

“As an agency, we are transformation and growth specialists, working with established businesses and new brands to define their stories and communicate in clever ways. Our fifth location comes as we celebrate 18 years in business and our agency is stronger than ever.”

Thrive’s Brisbane lead, Frances Browne, said: “Chanelle and the growing team will work collaboratively with our Brisbane operations, and we will capitalise on having a network of Thrivers across Australia and New Zealand.

“We are deeply rooted in the Queensland community and we look forward to continuing to grow our presence in this burgeoning market with our diverse expertise.”