Surfers Paradise Vision by Business Gold Coast

SURFERS

PARADISE

VISION

The Vision

Contents Messages 2 Bold Future

History 10 Key demographics

Community engagement

The changing face of Surfers Paradise

Making this vision a reality

Key vision projects

Working together to deliver the vision

Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast and an international tourist destination where people come to visit and live, to discover a relaxed urban lifestyle that is fun and entertaining, stylish and cultured on the shores of a world famous beach.

Thanks 38

s the traditional heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise has played an important role in the history of our ever-changing city. Throughout our transformation from a sleepy coastal village to internationally-renowned tourist destination, Surfers Paradise continues to be an intrinsic element of the Gold Coast lifestyle, changing and growing with us. We are now poised for the next exciting phase of Surfers Paradise’s evolution, which will comprise of contemporary additions to the iconic skyline, a modern and efficient public transport system and new public infrastructure such as the foreshore. These new features will enhance the Surfers Paradise we’ve always loved and are proud to share with visitors. Despite always evolving, the iconic charm of Surfers Paradise will always remain, purely because there’s no other place quite like it. RON CLARKE MBE Mayor

urfers Paradise has always been an iconic destination. It is an energised, pulsing hub of activity, where the city meets the surf. It continues to entertain and enthral generations of residents and visitors with its vibrancy and natural beauty. To me, Surfers Paradise is a unique part of the Gold Coast, it is a place where people can capture and celebrate life and where locals and holiday-makers alike can enjoy our relaxed urban lifestyle. As our city continues to grow, Surfers Paradise must evolve and change with it. Today, major investments, such as the foreshore and Cavill Mall redevelopments, Hilton and Soul, and the new light rail system will transform the precinct. Tomorrow, a new wave of exciting developments and improvements will be conceived to make our vision for Surfers Paradise a reality. With help from the community, local businesses and all stakeholders we can achieve our vision and together create a Surfers Paradise of which we can all be proud. Cr Susie Douglas

n Australia’s only city that is defined by tourism, Surfers Paradise is its pulsating heart. For generations, visitors have come, experienced and enjoyed the unique mix of fun, beach and vibrant entertainment that has produced genuine iconic status. But with rapidly changing consumer expectations and ever-increasing competition for the discretionary recreational dollar, Surfers Paradise must continually evolve to maintain appeal, to demonstrate relevance and to achieve sustainable business growth.

hen we consider what Surfers Paradise was like thirty years ago and the remarkable transformations that have occurred within this time, it is reasonable to imagine that Surfers Paradise in another thirty years will be nothing like it is today.

The Gold Coast Tourism industry commends the development of a Vision for Surfers Paradise and endorses it findings. The precinct is a vital element in the human architecture of our city by the beach, it is critical to the economy and its future should not be left to chance.

The Surfers Paradise of the future will become whatever the community wants it to be. The vision for Surfers Paradise has been created by the community and together with Council and the Heart of the City Advisory Committee the community will help make this vision a reality.

MARTIN WINTER CEO, Gold Coast Tourism Corporation

Our vision for Surfers Paradise is one of a city that is clean, environmentally sustainable with beautiful public spaces and leafy green streets where people feel safe and comfortable. Visitors from around the world will come to Surfers Paradise to appreciate how to create great places.

urfers Paradise Alliance is in full support of the Gold Coast City Community’s vision for Surfers Paradise and is proud to play a key role.

Surfers Paradise in 2040 will be a place that sets the standard for innovation in architecture, sustainable development and quality of life for its residents. BARRY LEE Heart of the City Advisory Committee Chair

Night and day, Surfers Paradise is the place where people connect with one another... that’s the clear vision of the Gold Coast community. On the beach or at a cafe, locals and visitors are drawn to the precinct by the iconic coastal vibe and relaxed atmosphere of our beautiful new foreshore overlooking magnificent Surfers Paradise Beach. But as well as a backdrop to intimate moments with family and friends, Surfers Paradise is also the canvas for some of Australia’s most exciting and engaging events. With a firm eye on sustainability, Surfers Paradise Alliance stages events that breathe life and colour into the vision for the precinct, bringing people together for good times and treasured memories. The vision for Surfers Paradise is something the Surfers Paradise Alliance helps achieve the vision, whether it is through conducting events, promoting the precinct or just welcoming a visitor to Australia’s most famous beach holiday destination. Laura Younger Surfers Paradise Alliance Chair

BOLD FUTURE

Bold Future Vision Defined by our spectacular beaches, hinterland ranges forests and waterways, the Gold Coast is an outstanding city which celebrates nature and connects distinct communities with the common goal of sustainability, choice and wellbeing for all. In 2009, Gold Coast City Council released the community’s vision for the future of the Gold Coast, Bold Future. The Bold Future Vision sets out our ambitions to inspire the city’s leaders and community to achieve social, environmental and economic sustainability to 2040. The Bold Future Vision is supported by six themes: A city leading by example A city loved for its green, gold and blue A city connecting people and places A city with a thriving economy A safe city where everyone belongs A city shaped by clever design

Bold Future for Surfers Paradise As the celebrated heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise plays a vital role in helping to make Bold Future a reality for the city. The Bold Future Vision and key themes provide the foundation for the vision for Surfers Paradise. Surfers Paradise has been an iconic tourist destination since the 1950s and continues to attract nearly 20,000 overnight visitors every day. It is now home to more than 20,000 permanent residents and 3,700 businesses with the residential population set to swell to 38,700 by 2031. Every Friday and Saturday night, more than 30,000 people visit the Surfers Paradise entertainment precinct. During celebrations and events, such as New Years Eve and the annual street motor racing event, visitor numbers can reach over 50,000.

The Surfers Paradise vision will drive outcomes in the precinct, bringing the community, visitors and government together to embrace future possibilities and position Surfers Paradise as a globally-recognised tourist destination.

How this vision will be used This document represents the community’s shared vision for Surfers Paradise as the heart of the Gold Coast. Developed by Council in consultation with the community and stakeholders, the Surfers Paradise vision will be used to: • complement the city’s Bold Future vision • inform the community and visitors about Surfers Paradise and its importance to the Gold Coast City • plan and shape the future of Surfers Paradise in partnership with the private sector and the community • inform the promotion of Surfers Paradise as a valued destination • identify and prioritise projects to assist in achieving the vision, including amendments to Council’s Planning Scheme

Some things,

never change

HISTORY

Before European settlement, the Gold Coast and hinterland was a natural area of timbered mountains and hills, river valleys, floodplain, salt and freshwater wetlands. Low sand hills and long white beaches marked the place where the land finally met the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The land, rivers, sea, flora and fauna formed the home of the Yugambeh people. Surfers Paradise is known as Kurrungul and the Kombumerri are the local people with descendants still living in this area today.

1860-80s foundation of frivolity and fun with Kitty’s and House of Blazes

Photographer Gary Stubbs

Photographer John Gollings

1933 Surfers Paradise State School opens 1 December 1933 Elston officially became the suburb of Surfers Paradise 1935 the first surf ski was ridden in Australia by Cyril Burcher at Surfers Paradise Beach after importing it from Hawaii 1942 two million service men passed through Brisbane or trained nearby

1890s J G Appel built the first substantial house

Gold Coast was used for rest and recuperation of soldiers

1917 Surfers Paradise is a subdivision in the suburb of Elston

The first fire station built in Surfers Paradise but postwar building restrictions prevented development

1919 After World War One saw the rise of the automobile with people taking camping trips to the beach 1925 Jim Cavill opens Surfers Paradise Hotel Jubilee Bridge connects Surfers Paradise to Southport and Brisbane 1928-29 Surfers Paradise Lifesaving Club recognised by the Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland

<1860-1930

Photographer Peter Hill

The seaside village has a vision to become a top class holiday destination and saw the emergence of early resorts and holiday homes Explosion of Australian surf culture and high-rise development with the first buildings to reach 20 storeys 1965 the meter maids were created by the Surfers Paradise Progress Association in an attempt to put a positive spin on new parking regulations 1967 Pink Poodle opens on Boxing Day 1970-1980 tall buildings become the dominate image creating the foundations of the iconic skyline 1976 establishment of the original Cavill Mall 1977 Death Tax abolished saw a surge in retirees to the city

The last twenty years has cemented Surfers Paradise as an international tourist destination characterised by a soaring skyline, the fabulous beach, late night entertainment and a growing population. 1991 CART IndyCar World Series attracted to Surfers Paradise 1996 Surfers Paradise Alliance established to manage the marketing and promotion of Surfers Paradise

1950-60’s development boomed again with renewed interest in Surfers Paradise as a tourist destination. Resort style architecture reflects a culture of escape and excess.

1981 Grundys Entertainment Centre opened followed by the Paradise Centre in 1984

1952 Paula Staford adds her take the controversial French bikini

1985 Gold Coast now has more international hotels than the state capital Brisbane

2004 -06 Surfers Paradise Traffic Management saw major road improvements and refurbishment of the Cavill Mall

1987 saw the emergence of Surfers Paradise as an international tourism destination as Japanese tourists visit in droves

2005 Q1 changes the iconic skyline and is the tallest residential building in the southern hemisphere

1959 first high-rise was built with Kinkabool reaching 10 storeys Gold Coast proclaimed a city

<1930’-50’s

1960’s - 80’s

1990 and beyond

Population 2010

Project population 2031

Males

Females

Adults 18 to 64 years

Overseas born

22869 37844 53% 47% 72% 28%

Average wage/salary ($)

Workers (2008)

Visitors 2010 (per day)

Bed spaces

Accommodation and Food Services employees

Retail Trade employees

Construction employees

key demographics of surfers paradise

40004 16082 19322 19087 30% 12% 9% 13

The purpose of life,

is a life of purpose

Community Engagement In keeping with Gold Coast City Council’s commitment to community engagement, in February 2011, residents, businesses, visitors and stakeholders were invited to share their vision for Surfers Paradise to 2040.

What You Told Us While the community’s views on Surfers Paradise are diverse, it is clear that: • people share a passion for Surfers Paradise as the heart of the Gold Coast • Surfers Paradise is a place to live, work, learn, relax, have fun and do business • the beach is the most important asset and surf culture is part of Surfers Paradise’s heritage

A draft vision was distributed to help promote discussion, generate ideas and gather input. Over five hundred people took up the call, sharing their thoughts and ideas through forums, an online survey, public displays and targeted interviews.

• Surfers Paradise holds a valued place in people’s hearts and has helped shape some extraordinary people, including athletes and business and community leaders • Surfers Paradise is a globally-recognised tourist destination known for its beautiful beach, great weather and extraordinary skyline • people love the atmosphere, the buzz and the vibe, which makes Surfers Paradise unique • families and locals play an important part in Surfers Paradise’s future • events and festivals, arts and creativity are vital to its future success

While this feedback is encouraging, it sits alongside a shared view of Surfers Paradise as losing its edge in an increasingly competitive global tourism market. You told us the identity of Surfers Paradise has become confused over time and that Surfers Paradise needs to regain its identity, its sense of community and its sense of fun.

In part, this is understood as being due to: • real and perceived safety issues • unclean streets, ageing infrastructure, poorly maintained buildings and empty building sites add to the perception of poor safety • public drunkenness and a ‘rules don’t apply here’ mentality • entertainment precinct activity having a significant impact on other uses • empty commercial spaces and an excess of lower-end retailers • all about buildings and the skyline rather than people and their experiences • local community is not really visible • difficult for visitors to find their way around with signage a problem • difficult for residents to obtain everyday items

While the challenges identified are genuine and substantial, your feedback also clearly indicated that these could be met head on, particularly with the support of local business, Council and community.

Your feedback suggested that public improvements such as the foreshore have already sent a strong signal locally and globally that Surfers Paradise has started a journey of transformation and regeneration.

THE CHANGING FACE OF SURFERS PARADISE

Surfers Paradise Foreshore The Surfers Paradise Foreshore connects the city heart with the beach to create a contemporary and vibrant beachfront experience fitting Surfers Paradise’s iconic tourism status. Completed in 2011, the foreshore extends nearly a kilometre along the esplanade from View Avenue to Laycock Street. It incorporates an urban plaza with an urban park allowing people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the beach and a variety of beachside amenities. The new foreshore also provides a safe and flexible space for major events. The foreshore reinforces the local character of Surfers Paradise and represents a place of fun and entertainment. Inclusion of colourful historical images celebrates the city’s beach culture and connects past local history with the present. The foreshore is a space for everyone and is a significant step in the Surfers Paradise journey of revitalisation.

Gold Coast Rapid Transit In 2014, the Gold Coast Rapid Transit (GCRT) will transform the city. The first stage of the light rail will run from the Gold Coast University Hospital to Broadbeach. Surfers Paradise will have five stations on Surfers Paradise Boulevard located at North Surfers Paradise, Cypress Avenue, Cavill Avenue, Hamilton Avenue and Thornton Street.

Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study The GCRT corridor study focuses beyond the transport infrastructure through improved planning and design outcomes to manage the challenges of growth in the urbanised coastal strip. The aim is to maximise benefits to the city, community, business and industry from the light rail project.

GCRT is not just a transport solution for the city, it is an ambitious, city-changing infrastructure project that aims to integrate new and existing transport systems, support urban regeneration and facilitate sustainable new development. It will be a catalyst to drive cultural and social outcomes and change how people move around the city, resulting in a reduction in traffic congestion and a myriad of benefits for tourism and business.

The key recommendations of the study focuses on ways to create better streets, better buildings and better places. Surfers Paradise is one of five identified precincts along the light rail corridor, and specific recommendations include: • encouraging diversity with greater provision of more long-term and permanent residential accommodation and affordable housing options to create a safer and more active urban environment, with a sense of community and improve performance of street-based retail • continue to allow unlimited building height in the main precinct to reinforce Surfers Paradise as the most significant destination on the coastal strip • support Surfers Paradise as the premier Gold Coast evening entertainment precinct with special initiatives to support safe drinking, live music, late operation and the liveability of the precinct • manage building form and distribution to minimise overshadowing of beach and major park areas • reinforce pedestrian movement through improved access through new development • strengthen beach to river connections and create a focal point on the beachfront • explore opportunities on Chevron Island to evolve into a distinctive and exciting mixed-use quarter on the river The study identifies a number of projects to support the Surfers Paradise vision and maximise benefits in the light rail corridor.

Those who wish to sing,

always find a song

THE VISION Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast and an international tourist destination where people come to visit and live, to discover a relaxed urban lifestyle that is

To make this vision a reality, you told us that Surfers Paradise will need to:

Lead by example • partner with the community to share decisions and actions to progress the vision • proactively address current and emerging challenges • strengthen its identity locally and globally

• locals will come to celebrate its heritage and its future • be safe and clean where residents and families feel at home • promote an active, healthy and relaxed urban lifestyle

fun and entertaining, stylish and cultured on the shores of a world famous beach.

Be a safe environment where everyone belongs

Be loved for its green, gold and blue • focus on the beach as the primary environmental, social and economic asset • enhance the use of the river and waterways as a destination and for transport and recreation • provide high-quality connected public space that supports urban living

Connect people and places

• increase opportunity for social interaction and cultural experiences

Have a thriving economy • attract local business that add to its unique style • provide a diversity of jobs to attract a range of skilled people • support a late night economy focused on tourism, entertainment and leisure

• connect communities through safe, easy pedestrian movement and sustainable modes of travel

Be shaped by clever design

• connect public spaces for events and festivals

• be people-centric and reflect the needs of the community

• enable leading edge technology to connect people with the place and the planet

• accommodate a diversity of people in sustainable communities • have a unique and recognisable urban fabric which adds to the sense of place • plan for the future and minimise the impact of future challenges

Surfers Paradise leading by example Surfers Paradise will partner with the community to share decisions and actions to progress the vision • the community progresses the Surfers Paradise vision • work with other levels of government, businesses and key stakeholders to prioritise and fund projects to deliver the vision

Surfers Paradise will proactively address current and emerging challenges • a stakeholder network to identify and resolve issues together exists • quickly form working groups with the government and community to respond to challenges and solve problems

Surfers Paradise is loved for its green, gold and blue Surfers Paradise will transform its identity to rebuild and strengthen its profile locally and globally

Surfers Paradise will focus on the beach as the primary environmental, social and economic asset

• Surfers Paradise is a boutique urban destination that is fun and entertaining, stylish and cultured

• the beach is protected and valued for its contribution to the amenity and attractiveness of Surfers Paradise

• leverage the Surfers Paradise brand and its rejuvenation to attract investment and new businesses

• the beach is protected from shade encroachment from tall buildings along the esplanade

• the image of Surfers Paradise continues to evolve and offers fantastic new experiences • there is a balanced approach to reporting issues that entertainment precincts around the world face

• there are a range of day and night activities and experiences on the beach • people can travel along the length of the beach providing a coastal experience like no other

Surfers Paradise will enhance the use of the river and waterways as a destination, and for transport and recreation • engage with the river through improved public access to the river’s edge • restaurants and cafes attract people to the river and showcase a different side of Surfers Paradise • new water-based transport options link Surfers Paradise to key destinations in the city • access to boat ramps, jetties and boat parking helps people to use the waterways for recreation and to bring people to Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise will provide highquality connected public space that supports urban living • public spaces are active, green destinations with easy access for all • public space is shared and valued by residents, visitors and businesses • public and private spaces are integrated and shared to provide places for people to sit, eat, shop, be entertained, relax and enjoy the views • high-quality public space connects the beach and the river

Surfers Paradise connects people and places

Surfers Paradise is safe, where everyone belongs

Surfers Paradise will connect communities through safe, easy pedestrian movement and sustainable modes of travel

Surfers Paradise locals will celebrate its heritage and its future

Surfers Paradise will be safe and clean where residents and families feel at home

• Gold Coast locals celebrate Surfers Paradise as the Heart of the City and value its importance to the city and our way of life

• there is a sense of safety from the number of people out and about enjoying themselves

• a network of active transport infrastructure allows people to reach Surfers Paradise by walking, cycling, skating or paddling • clear signage, public art and iconic landmarks creates familiarity and aids navigation of the precinct • unique experiences are within walking distance, a short light rail or boat ride away • the public transport system is well used with streets and walkways are shaded by trees to keep people cool and protected

Surfers Paradise will connect the green and civic spaces for events and festivals • events and permanent entertainment widen the appeal of Surfers Paradise as an events destination • there are spectacular open air venues for large cultural and sporting events, festivals and annual celebrations • there is a sophisticated lively events atmosphere enhanced by culture, food, music, theatre and art • the infrastructure to cultivate creativity, innovation and interest exist

Surfers Paradise will enable leading edge technology to connect people with the place and planet • technology is part of the community and is embedded in daily life to help residents and visitors to discover Surfers Paradise

• locals reclaim Surfers Paradise by celebrating its history and involved in shaping its future

• families have a real presence in Surfers Paradise and help establish a sense of community, safety and vitality

• surf culture is celebrated through events, public art and design

• the streets and public spaces are clean and building owners take pride in their buildings

• the community and business are globally connected to family, education, news and innovation • technology enables business to access global markets from the comfort of the beach or cafe • new technology advances are adopted to improve sustainability, connectivity and interaction

• sustainable lighting increases safety and enhances visual appeal

Surfers Paradise will promote a relaxed urban lifestyle, which is active and healthy

Surfers Paradise will increase opportunity for social interaction and cultural experiences

• exercise and play equipment is part of the public space to encourage people of all ages to participate in outdoor activities and exercise

• social facilities are visible and encourage people of all ages to feel included and to develop strong support networks

• walkways, cycleways and supporting facilities make it easy for people to choose to active ways to get around

• creativity and clever design helps to build and foster opportunity for interaction

• healthy food is affordable and readily available from local businesses and farmers’ markets

• cultural diversity is celebrated and shared through events and experienced through food, language and tradition

Surfers Paradise is shaped by clever design

Surfers Paradise has a thriving economy Surfers Paradise will attract local businesses that add to its unique style • local businesses are prominent and their strong service culture reinforces Surfers Paradise as a unique tourism destination • Local business help establish the streets as destinations adding character and providing a sense of discovery • markets and other initiatives support new and emerging artists to build a strong cultural economy • lanes and alleyways are utilised to provide alternative spaces for commercial activity and entertainment

Surfers Paradise provides a diversity of jobs attracting a range of skilled people • strong connections between business, industry and training institutions help attract new business and skills • continue to be recognised as a leader in tourism and the development of new tourism products • our entrepreneurial spirit fosters innovation and invention and attracts new investment • there is a strong, compact commercial centre focused on tourism, retail, property, financial and insurance services, accommodation and food services

Surfers Paradise will embrace a late night economy focused on tourism, entertainment and leisure • Surfers Paradise is a modern vibrant place which offers a range of experiences throughout the day and night • entertainment reflects a diversity of cultures, backgrounds, age groups and interests • there are strong links to the cultural precinct, with live music and performance part of the experience and providing a platform for local artists • great restaurants, cafes and bars help the precinct transition from day to nighttime activities seamlessly

Surfers Paradise will be people-centric and reflect the community’s needs

Surfers Paradise will accommodate a diversity of people in sustainable climateappropriate communities

• people are at the centre of planning and design • public amenities are adequate for the size of the visitor influx and are well-designed and accessible

• people choose to live in Surfers Paradise to reduce their carbon foot print

• increase in permanent residents changes the way the precinct is used and services it provides

• transit-orientated development and the rapid transit corridor supports ‘live, work, play’ objectives

• there are a range of housing options suitable to accommodating diverse communities of all shapes, sizes and means

• development is environmentally sustainable, maximizing the use of renewable energy and responding to our subtropical climate

Surfers Paradise will have a unique and recognisable urban fabric which adds to its sense of place

Surfers Paradise will plan for the future and minimise the impact of future challenges

• street furniture helps to create a modern identity for Surfers Paradise and adds to its sense of creativity and fun • public art, signage, light and colour add another dimension to public spaces and buildings and provide clues to let you know you have arrived in Surfers Paradise

• building design and community resilience is flexible to respond to future challenges • community is well informed and leads the way in addressing future urban living challenges • has eco-credibility with strong use of new green technologies and renewable resources

• public improvements continue to add to the sense of place and rejuvenation

The best way to predict the future,

IS TO CREATE IT Photographer Arthur Leebold

Key vision projects The map contains ideas on key projects which were identified through community consultation and outlined in the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study. These projects are ideas and concepts that have been identified by the community and stakeholders and require more detailed investigation to test their feasibility. They are key initiatives to achieve the vision, provide confidence and aid in the revitalisation of the precinct.

Cultural Precinct

Park Green Connection

Cypress Park

Light Rail Light Rail Station

Riverfront

Oceanway Connection Surfers Foreshore

Oceanway Connection

Mid Block Connection Cavil Mall

WORKING TOGETHER TO DELIVER THE VISION

The Surfers Paradise vision will inform the precincts future direction, but for the vision to become a reality it needs to be supported by projects and activities that are adequately funded, managed and maintained. The key groups responsible for driving the vision in partnership with Council are: Surfers Paradise Alliance Surfers Paradise Alliance represents the businesses in Surfers Paradise and aims to increase visitation by marketing and promoting the precinct in conjunction with Gold Coast Tourism. Surfers Paradise Alliance enhances the experience of the precinct for visitors through events, festivals, markets, and street entertainment. Heart of the City Advisory Committee The Heart of the City Advisory Committee advises Council on a range of issues and opportunities to enhance Surfers Paradise and strengthen its image as an international city. The Heart of the City membership is made up of key businesses, community representatives and Council. The Heart of the City, through the Surfers Paradise Action Plan, identifies and prioritises projects for progression in the precinct. The Community Crucial to the success of Surfers Paradise is community ownership and commitment to work with local business and Council to make the vision a reality. Council, Surfers Paradise Alliance and Heart of the City will continue to work with the community and evolve to address the needs of the community as the precinct matures over time.

Gold Coast Cultural Precinct Community consultation to develop the vision for Surfers Paradise highlighted the importance of incorporating a diverse range of accessible events, festivals, arts and creativity. Visible from Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct will enrich the cultural life of Gold Coast residents and visitors. The 17-hectare site will provide the community with cultural facilities commensurate with the Gold Coast being the sixth largest city in Australia. It will be a place with strong community spirit for enjoyment and engagement with the arts, culture, design and learning offering a diverse calendar of activities, events and festivals. Public and active transport links including green bridges, bus and water transit services will link Surfers Paradise to this world-class cultural destination.

Gold Coast Oceanway As part of a network of high quality pathways through Surfers Paradise, that support diverse people movement, the Oceanway will link Surfers Paradise along the beach to surrounding communities. The recently completed Surfers Paradise foreshore is a piece of the Oceanways link where cyclists and pedestrians can be seen promenading along the beach. The aim is to construct a continuous Oceanway (supported by a network of pedestrian and cycle pavements and on-road bikeways) to encourage active travel and support the sustainability of the city. There are opportunities for businesses to use their ‘oceanway’ address to encourage an exciting new way for clients to arrive without the need of a car. Critical to success of the Oceanway and pathway networks will be integrated signage across the precinct which is clear and easily identifiable.

Surfers Central Riverfront

CYPRESS PARK

Consultation with the community is underway for the Surfers Central River Frontage. The river frontage concept includes two new pontoons adjoining Appel Park. The pontoon in the north of the park is for a future dedicated public ferry terminal and the second pontoon is proposed as a commercial terminal where visitors can access marine destinations and experiences directly from Surfers Paradise. A café is proposed to include a ticket office and assist to improve safety.

Cypress Park is a possible redevelopment outcome for the Councilowned Cypress Avenue Carpark site following its use as a light rail construction depot until 2014. The basis for discussion on the future of the site includes a combined urban space and landscaped park which can be used as a venue for boutique events and outdoor performances. Future needs of the community will inform the concept for the sites development and include community facilities, public amenities, car parking and commercial activity to support surrounding urban growth.

In addition to the Appeal Park pontoons, the proposed Riverwalk from Southport to Broadbeach will reopen the waterfront to the public. New buildings will engage with the river and offer waterfrontdining adding to the experience of Surfers Paradise and maximising enjoyment of its two greatest assets, the beach and the river.

The site represents a unique opportunity to reinforce a link to our history and celebrate the last remaining remnant tree from an ancient rainforest. The tree will be an enduring symbol of strength and resilience in an always evolving environment.

The Surfers Paradise Action Plan

These key initiatives sit alongside a number of equally important projects and activities to deliver the vision. The Surfers Paradise Strategic Action Plan details a number of short, medium and long term projects, the proposed timing and required funding. The plan is endorsed by the Heart of the City Advisory Committee and Council on a regular basis. For further information on the Surfers Paradise Action Plan and projects check Council’s website.

THANKS Special thanks to everyone who has been involved in the development of the Surfers Paradise Vision. This vision could not have been created without help from the community, past and present elected officials, council officers and all of us who have a special place in our hearts for Surfers Paradise. Thanks to Sohail Inayatullah andÂ the team at Fieldworx who were instrumental in challenging people to think about the future and undertaking the community consultation. Photographs and images are courtesy of the Gold Coast City Council Local Studies Library, the Gold Coast Rapid Transit project, the City Architect, Surfers Paradise Alliance, Gold Coast Tourism, Peter Hill, John Gollings, Graham Weeks, Gary Stubbs, Nicole Howell and Anthony Rees - Halfnine, and John Bragagnolo. Data used in this document has been sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Gold Coast City Council planning assumptions and profile id, tourist accommodation small area data (Surfers Paradise March 2011) and the Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing. This project was managed by Gold Coast City Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Economic Development and Major Projects directorate.

THE JOURNEY HAS JUST BEGUN

goldcoastcity.com.au/surfersparadise

General enquiries: 07 5582 8211 or 1800 225 045 Gold Coast City Council PO Box 5045 GCMC QLD 9729

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