Thousands queue for Big Brother

THOUSANDS of Queensland hopefuls turned out to the Big Brother auditions today in Brisbane.

A few die-hard punters camped overnight outside the Sebel in Brisbane's CBD, with most turning up early this morning.

Channel Nine is revamping the reality series, which previously aired on Network Ten for eight series before being axed in 2008.

Most auditionees chose to show up as themselves, but there were some crazy costumes including brightly coloured bodysuits, wigs and an Elmo suit.

Gold Coast girl Christie Hawking chose to cover herself head to toe in her favourite colour, pink.

"I'm not very stylish. Anything else I would have worn would have looked ridiculous as well so why not go all out and wear a whole bodysuit," she said.

"It's the most awesome show in the world. I'm so glad it's back and it's the best life experience even if you're in there for a week."

Executive producer Alex Mavriodakis was pleased with the turnout.

"I'm sure it's going to be in the high thousands," he said.

"We've had some of our best housemates from Queensland and they haven't disappointed yet again.

"There are some very interesting characters, so if you're loud and you're funny or there's something amazing about you then great but the buzz words I'm working on this year are warmth, intelligence and humour."

Housemate wannabes had to make it through three rounds of auditions in Brisbane today to make it to the next level, where they will be considered alongside contestants from other states.

Host Sonia Kruger said she was a little biased when it came to the Sunshine State.

"Because I'm a Queenslander, I really want to see the winner be from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. How biased am I?"

But Kruger is not getting too involved with the audition process.

"I want to be shocked and surprised with the viewers," Kruger said.

"I want to get to know these people the way the viewers do."

Auditions continue on Friday on the Gold Coast before heading to Sydney, Hobart, Adelaide and Melbourne.

Big Brother will air on Nine after the Olympics.