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Tourism development

The Gold Coast is Australia's premier tourism destination. We offer support programs and have partnerships in place to help grow our local economy and increase our status in international and domestic tourism markets.

Find out about what support is available to new and existing tourism businesses and investors on the Gold Coast.

Tourism research & data insights

In 2021-22, tourism contributed $1.63 billion directly in valued added, representing 4.9% of total industry value added to the Gold Coast economy. Before COVID-19 (2018-19), tourism contribution accounted for $1.75 billion direct value added, 5.7% of total Gold Coast value added.

Tourism employment on the Gold Coast

In 2021-22, tourism directly employed 24,097 persons, representing 7.5% of total Gold Coast employment. Before COVID-19 (2018-19), direct tourism employment was 23,090, 7.8% of total Gold Coast employment.

Destination Tourism Management Plan

To ensure the sustainable success of the Gold Coast tourism industry, we partner with Destination Gold Coast to deliver the Destination Tourism Management Plan. Note: this plan is currently under review.

Download the Destination Tourism Management Plan (PDF, 4MB)

Activating the night-time economy

The night-time economy is defined as economic activity that occurs at establishments from 6pm to 6am. In 2020-21, the Gold Coast local government area was Australia's the third largest night-time economy, comprising of 3,667 establishments, 36,755 jobs and sales turnover of $4.1 billion.

Our Activate the Night Action Plan 2023-2027 has been developed with input from community consultation and key stakeholders. The comprehensive plan aims to foster a flourishing and prosperous night-time economy while recognising the potential for growth among both existing and new businesses. Additionally, it prioritises the creation of a safe and vibrant nightlife experience.

To learn more, download our fact sheets:

• The Gold Coast Night Time Economy fact sheet (PDF, 2MB)
• Surfers Paradise Night Time Economy fact sheet (PDF, 1MB)

For access to the full report, please email: [email protected]

Gold Coast accommodation investment outlook

COVID-19 presented a unique opportunity for hotels and accommodation providers to consider bringing forward re-investment plans, without displacing occupancy and revenue during usual operations. Based on this opportunity, in 2020 we commissioned an investment outlook study to understand how much re-investment was being planned and what timeframes. In 2022, we commissioned a follow up report to understand any changes to investment intent and current investment priorities across this sector. The 2022 report will be published soon.

• Investment Outlook Study 2020 (PDF, 2MB)
• Investment Outlook Study 2022 (PDF, 5MB)  

Tourism Queensland’s Visitor Data Dashboard

Tourism and Events Queensland’s interactive dashboard provides users with access to International Visitor Survey and National Visitor Survey time series data for visitation and expenditure within Australia

Tourism Research Australia

The International and National Visitor Surveys are published quarterly. They are the most comprehensive source of information on international and domestic visitors to the Gold Coast.

Tourism investment attraction & retention

We continuingly identify opportunities to invest in programs that provide a direct return on investment to our economy.

We offer a range of programs to support new and existing tourism businesses.

These programs deliver benefits across different stages of the business life cycle. Whether it is for the review of the business structure, to enhance digital growth or support to expand or invest into new experiences.

Business Investment Attraction Program

Our investment and business attraction program supports continued growth and new investment in the city.

Creative Tourism Grants Program

Creative tourism grants support projects underpinned by the work of professional artists. Projects must show they will have a reasonable tourism impact.

Digital Growth Program for the accommodation sector

We recognise that the accommodation sector is an important driver for the Gold Coast’s tourism industry and visitor economy. With digital health checks, keynote sessions and direct mentoring from an appointed third-party digital marketing agency, the fully subsidised Digital Growth Program aims to grow local businesses by expanding on their digital marketing capabilities.

Tourism Experience Mentoring Program

The Transformational Experiences Mentoring Program is a 10-week one-on-one mentoring program offered by Tourism and Events Queensland in partnership with Destination Gold Coast and the City of Gold Coast.

Following the success of the pilot program, we are providing additional funding to create more opportunities for eligible Gold Coast tourism operators to participate.

To discuss nominating your business for the next program, please contact us via email: [email protected]

Trade missions

The NoVacancy Trade Mission targets Gold Coast accommodation providers who are considering a renovation, refurbishment and/or tech upgrades to their property. We are providing support to accommodation providers with analysing their local supplier network and to generate hotel and related business investment in the city. 

In support of local businesses who supply to the hotel and accommodation sector, an additional Supply Chain Event will be held at the end of the first day of the expo.

Tourism support agencies

City of gold coast.

Our major tourism, education and arts bodies were merged. The amalgamation includes Destination Gold Coast, Major Events Gold Coast, Study Gold Coast, HOTA and Placemakers. Experience Gold Coast was established at the end of 2023.

Destination Gold Coast

Destination Gold Coast operates as a membership-based destination marketing organisation representing the sector and generating increased visitor demand, visitor arrivals, and visitor expenditure for the benefit of the city. It is a funded entity by the Council of the City of Gold Coast.

Major Events Gold Coast

Major Events Gold Coast curates an inspiring and diverse portfolio of events and deliver a whole-of-city strategic approach to major event acquisition, management, and delivery. It is a controlled entity of the Council of the City of Gold Coast.

Study Gold Coast

Study Gold Coast operates as a membership-based organisation and promotes the economic value of the industry in order to expand the city’s talent pool and also seeks to attract employers to engage directly with the education sector by facilitating pathways between students and industry to deliver better career outcomes for graduates. It is funded by the Council of the City of Gold Coast.

Queensland Government

Tourism & events queensland.

Tourism and Events Queensland is the Queensland's lead marketing, tourism experience and destination development and major events agency.

Department of Tourism and Sport

Department of Tourism and Sport invests in Queensland’s innovation and tourism sectors to drive economic growth and create jobs. They provide grant funding, infrastructure and planning, events and world-class venues.

Business Queensland

Business Queensland offers a range of initiatives to support tourism businesses. There are different programs to help you start a business, grow your business, develop quality products and services, and increase your market share.

Industry association

Queensland tourism industry council.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council is the peak industry body for tourism in Queensland, acting as 'the voice of tourism'. The Council is a not-for-profit, private sector, membership-based organisation representing the interests of Queensland’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Australian Government

Tourism australia.

Tourism Australia is responsible for attracting international visitors to Australia, both for leisure and business events. The organisation is active in 15 key markets and activities include advertising, public relations and media programs, trade shows and industry programs, consumer promotions, online communications and consumer research.

The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) promotes Australian trade, investment, tourism and education to the world. They deliver services to grow Australia’s economic prosperity.

You can tell us about your business or investment ideas by completing the following form.  

Tourism voucher giveaway to help boost Gold Coast recovery from storm damage

Storm-ravaged tourism businesses on the Gold Coast will receive a further $2.5 million in support funding from the Queensland government.

Key points:

• 50,000 vouchers, each worth $50 will be available via a website for use at Gold Coast tourism businesses
• The tourism industry says vouchers provide short and long-term benefits for operators
• Some tourism businesses are still closed due to damage caused during the deadly Christmas and Boxing Day storms

Deadly storms battered south-east Queensland on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, claiming seven lives and leaving tens of thousands of homes and businesses without power.

Tourism attractions across the region were heavily impacted, with some still closed due to the storm damage.

Premier Steven Miles has announced today that 50,000 vouchers, each worth $50, would go on offer via a website to stimulate the Gold Coast's tourism economy.

How do the vouchers work?

If you spend $50 on a day tour or attraction taking part in the scheme you will receive an extra $50 credit.

It means a $100 experience will put you out of pocket by $50.

Tourism and Events Queensland chief executive Patricia O'Callaghan said vouchers had been proven as a way of helping tourism businesses across the state during the COVID pandemic.

She said they had proven benefits in the short- and long-term.

"People are experiencing attractions and experiences that they may not have been to before," Ms O'Callaghan said.

"Our operators do a great job of really giving these people a great time and we know that they do come back as a result."

How do I get a tourism voucher?

Premier Steven Miles said south-east Queenslanders could access one of the 50,000 vouchers through the GC Summer FUNds website, but it is yet to go live.

"We spoke to operators and heard from them what they thought would be most useful," Mr Miles said.

"They said when we'd done things like this previously it really helped promote the region and get people planning trips."

The vouchers, when you can sign up, will be available for use until the end of March.

The announcement follows a similar package unveiled earlier this month to help boost the far north Queensland tourism economy in the wake of ex-tropical cyclone Jasper .

What do businesses say about the vouchers?

Tourism operator Linda Spiteri welcomed the initiative and said the past three weeks had been "tumultuous" for her stand-up paddle-boarding business.

"It's been a juggle because we're taking cancellations, trying to postpone activities so that we can put them into the future," Ms Spiteri said.

Gold Coast Motor Museum director Grant Amor said there would be long-term benefits for his "young business".

"We've only been open for just over three years so anything that puts us out in front of people, whether they're locals or tourists, from a long-term point of view it will be great for us," Mr Amor said.

"People will get to experience what we have and share it amongst their friends."

Who's funding all these vouchers?

The GC Summer Funds initiative is a partnership between the Queensland government and the council's tourism body, Experience Gold Coast.

Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the Gold Coast's tourism sector had suffered terribly as a result of the storms.

"The Gold Coast is the jewel in the crown of our tourism industry and it is a major gateway," Mr Healy said.

"We need to make sure that the businesses here are getting strong support."

City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate described it as a "great cooperation" between state and local government.

"This really shows that we care and that we can take families out and just enjoy and recover from what we've faced," Cr Tate said.

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Home » News » QLD Government announces $2.5m in tourism vouchers for Gold Coast recovery

QLD Government announces $2.5m in tourism vouchers for Gold Coast recovery

Queensland Premier Steven Miles has today launched a boost for Gold Coast tourism operators in the wake of severe weather.

The GC Summer FUNds initiative is backed by a government investment of $2.5 million which will see 50,000 $50 vouchers up for grabs.

Vouchers will give visitors $50 off some of the Gold Coast’s best attractions and experiences, including the major theme parks.

The program is funded in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast.

It’s expected the boost will help the city’s thriving tourism industry bounce back quickly.

QLD Premier Steven Miles said this initiative is good news for the economy, jobs and tourism operators.

“This summer our tourism operators have been some of the hardest hit here and in Cairns, so it’s time we help them get back on their feet,” Miles said.

“My government is proud to support this important package, so more people come to the Coast and take advantage of the fantastic opportunities available.”

The initiative will help local small business owners that have been continuously impacted by severe weather events, border closures and the COVID pandemic. The owner of Go Vertical Stand Up Paddle Board & Kayak, Linda Spiteri, said the temporary closure led to high cancellations and booking hesitancy from guests in the normally busy period.

“Now, despite the setbacks, I am excited to get behind Summer FUNds so that locals and visitors can experience Gold Coast’s beautiful waterways first-hand,” she said.

The vouchers program have also been welcomed by Village Roadshow, the owner of Wet ‘n’ Wild, Sea World, Paradise Country and Movie World, which plans on working with Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast to launch this initiative.

Entrance to Village Roadshow’s Sea World amusement park at Main Beach on the Gold Coast (iStock/Nils Versemann)

Village Roadshow’s chief operating officer, Bikash Randhawa, encouraged Gold Coast locals to snap up the offer while they can.

“The program is also a wonderful opportunity for South East Queensland residents to save $50 on some of their favourite Village Roadshow Theme Parks products including our Village Roadshow Locals One Pass which gives unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast and Paradise Country for 12-months plus access to exclusive night events,” Randhawa said.

“With a limited allocation of promotional codes available, I’d encourage people to get in early to avoid missing out.”

More information on Summer FUNds can be found  here .

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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• Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment

The Hon Dan Tehan MP

• Media Releases
• Transcripts

This content has been archived.

Gold coast a winner from government’s tourism package.

• Joint media release with:
• The Hon Karen Andrews MP , Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Member for McPherson
• The Hon Stuart Robert MP , Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Minister for Government Services, Member for Fadden
• Angie Bell MP , Member for Moncrieff

The Gold Coast will be one of the big winners from the Morrison Government’s new $1.2 billion tourism package offering 800,000 half-price airfares and extended support for local wildlife attractions and business events.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the support package would kickstart tourism in regions most impacted by international border closures by driving domestic tourism.

“The best thing we can do to support our tourism sector is to bring the tourists and business travel back, and while international borders remain closed that means getting more Australians to book a holiday or attend a business event in Australia,” Mr Tehan said.

“We want Australians to take advantage of the 800,000 discounted airfares to rediscover the many wonderful tourist destinations in Australia.

“So do yourself a favour and do our economy a favour by visiting your travel agent, booking a discounted airfare and taking a holiday anywhere in Australia, like the beautiful Gold Coast.”

As part of the tourism package, the Government has also extended the COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program. An additional $130 million is provided to help give eligible travel agents additional breathing space to facilitate customer refunds, follow up travel credits and process consumer refunds. Several adjustments will be made to the program as a result of industry feedback. The Government will continue to consult with the industry to finalise the conditions of the program extension.

Founder & CEO of Crooked Compass Lisa Pagotto said receiving funding through the Consumer Travel Support Program had been a lifeline for her company.

“The scale of detriment COVID-19 had on the travel industry is something even the best leadership or business skills couldn’t prepare for,” Ms Pagotto said.

“I have great appreciation for government support to help keep Australian businesses afloat.”

The program provides eligible travel agents and tour arranging service operators with a one off payment ranging from $1,500 to $100,000 to assist with their legal obligations to credit and refund Australian consumers who are unable to travel due to COVID-19.

Mr Tehan visited the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary today with Karen Andrews, the MP for McPherson, Stuart Robert, the MP for Fadden, and Angie Bell, the MP for Moncrieff, to promote the Gold Coast as a tourist destination.

Minister Andrews said it was no secret the southern Gold Coast had borne the brunt of travel restrictions and welcomed the extension of the Zoo and Aquarium program – which would benefit the iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital.

“Last year – for the first time in decades – Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was forced to close its doors to tourists, while a record number of sick and injured animals were delivered to the Hospital,” Minister Andrews said.

“This money helps cover the cost of animal welfare, including feed, enclosure, health and other specialised care expenses, and utilities directly related to the housing and caring for animals.

“Our vibrant wildlife attractions are another reason the Gold Coast is bracing for an influx of tourists thanks to our Government’s 800,000 half-price airfares.”

Mr Robert said while the Gold Coast had been hit hard by COVID-19 Gold Coasters were getting back on their feet.

“The Gold Coast is where Australians come to make memories and Gold Coasters love being able to offer people an opportunity to get away from it all but COVID-19 saw our restaurants closed and bars shuttered – this package will keep the momentum up on the GC as we come back strong,” Mr Robert said.

Ms Bell said the Gold Coast business events sector would also benefit from an extension of the Business Events Grants program to cover events up to 31 March 2022.

The Business Events Grants program provides grants up to $250,000 to support Australian businesses participating at pre-approved business to business events as buyers or sellers.

“The Gold Coast is a premier destination for business events and the extension of this program will mean more Australians will receive support to travel to the Gold Coast to take part in an event, trade show or exhibition,” Ms Bell said.

“When people come to the Gold Coast for a business event, they spend money on a hotel room, they eat at restaurants, take tours and go shopping which gives our local economy a boost and helps people in jobs and businesses get up and running.”

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary General Manager Michael Kelly said: “Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary thanks the Federal Government on the announcement of the extension of the Zoo and Aquarium Support Funding. This funding has allowed the Sanctuary to continue to provide the high level of care to all of our animals that call the Sanctuary home, along with providing that lifesaving care to those animals admitted through our Wildlife Hospital.

“This type of funding greatly assists us to maintain our operations whilst the tourism economy continues to recover. We will continue to work with all levels of government in readiness to welcome back visitors from all over the world to this amazing destination.”

Media enquiries

• Organisations
• Tourism, Innovation and Sport

Gold Coast Tourism Investment Snapshot 2022

• Activity Stream

The Queensland Government, through the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport, provides facilitation support to tourism investors. The Gold Coast Tourism Investment Snapshot provides investors with economic and tourism data for the Gold Coast to help inform investment decisions.

Data and Resources

The Queensland Government, through the Department of Tourism, Innovation and...

Additional Info

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Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, the queensland government is giving out 50,000 $50 tourism vouchers to use on the gold coast.

Get a discount on theme parks, tours and other attractions, as part of an initiative to help the region recover after this summer's severe weather.

When was the last time that you went to one of the Gold Coast's theme parks, or Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary ? Took a tour on Tamborine Mountain? Hit up one of the coastal city's other attractions, such as Dracula's or the SkyPoint Observation Deck? Whether it's been forever or you're a local, the Queensland Government wants southeast Queenslanders to play tourist on the Goldie over the next few months — and it's giving away $50 vouchers to help.

Since the beginning of the pandemic , everyone knows how these tourism initiatives work, and why. This one comes after the Gold Coast suffered severe weather over the period at the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024, impacting summer getaway bookings. Accordingly, the state's powers that be are attempting to assist the industry by encouraging folks to add the area to their plans sometime soon.

Shiftchange via Wikimedia Commons

Under the name GC Summer FUNds, and as part of a partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast, there's 50,000 vouchers up for grabs. The government has committed $2.5 million to the program.

Queensland Premiere Steven Miles announced the scheme on Monday, January 15, with vouchers available for redemption from midday the same day. You have until 11.59pm AEST on Friday, March 29, 2024 to get in on the action — or until 50,000 redemptions have been made

"The Gold Coast is one of Queensland's tourism hot spots because of the world class attractions and experiences on offer," said the Premier.

"This summer, our tourism operators have been some of the hardest hit here and in Cairns, so it's time we help them get back on their feet."

As always, there are caveats. Using the vouchers involves entering the code "GCSUMMERFUNDS" when you're making a new booking via the initiative's website, but you have to spend $100 or more to qualify. There's also only one voucher available per southeast Queensland resident — and, as well as needing to be 18 or over, you do need to live in Brisbane metro or CBD, the Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, the Sunshine Coast or Toowoomba.

You'll be required to enter your residential address when you book, and the scheme's terms and conditions advise that it will be adding extra verification via checking IP addresses.

And that end date? It's just as the Easter long weekend kicks off — so you'll need to have Gold Coast plans before then.

Applications for the 50,000 $50 GC Summer FUNds travel vouchers are opening now until 11.59pm AEST on Friday, March 29, 2024 — or until 50,000 redemptions have been made. For more information, or to apply during the aforementioned window, head to the initiative's website .

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Goldie giveaway: 50K vouchers for SEQ locals to boost GC tourism post-storms

South-east queenslanders can nab a share in 50,000 vouchers to spend on gold coast experiences, including major theme parks, to reboot the tourism hotspot in the wake of recent severe weather events this summer season..

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The GC Summer FUNds $50 vouchers are backed by a $2.5 million state government investment targeted to help Gold Coast tourism operators affected by the recent storms that forced temporary business closures and tourists to cancel their bookings.

Funded in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and Experience Gold Coast, the vouchers will give visitors $50 off some of the GC’s top attractions and experiences redeemable until 29 March 2024 or when the allocation is exhausted.

How it works

Locals can use the $50 vouchers by entering the code ‘GCSUMMERFUNDS’ when making a new booking via the GC Summer FUNds website for bookings of $100 or more.

South-East Queenslanders who live in the Brisbane Metro area, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Sunshine Coast or Toowoomba can access one voucher per resident aged 18 years and over.

Locals will need to enter their residential address on booking with extra verification via IP address checks to qualify.

Reinvigorating the GC as a tourism hotspot

The GC Summer FUNds tourism voucher scheme initiative is expected to help one of Australia’s key tourism industries recover quickly.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles said: “The Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s tourism hotspots because of the world-class attractions and experiences on offer.”

“This summer, our tourism operators have been some of the hardest hit so it’s time we help them get back on their feet.”

TEQ CEO Patricia O’Callaghan , who is also the former CEO of Destination Gold Coast, added: “We’ve been listening to industry across the Gold Coast and have worked closely with Experience Gold Coast to design a package that incentivises and inspires visitors to book an experience.”

“This is an initiative that was designed off a similar model used on the Gold Coast during the pandemic so we know it will have a positive impact.”

For more info, head to gcsummerfunds.com

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The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

Gold coast eco-tourism set to flourish with new parkland.

Published Saturday, 09 March, 2024 at 10:30 AM

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Racing The Honourable Grace Grace

• Currumbin Valley site to be transformed into one of Australia’s largest eco-parks
• Miles Government investing more than $45 million and delivering on election commitment
• Activation Plan highlights opportunities to unlock property’s eco-tourism potential and protect flora and fauna.

The Gold Coast is set to become home to one of Australia’s largest eco-parklands, with plans unveiled to develop land in the heart of Currumbin.

Set to build on the Gold Coast’s global reputation as a tourism destination, while protecting native animals and bushland, the 148-hectatre site will feature new hiking trails, picnic areas and a location for wildlife rehabilitation.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace released the project’s Activation Plan today, backed by a $31 million investment over three years which is in addition to the money already invested to acquire the land, carry out the consultation, and develop the Activation Plan.

The Plan’s release follows extensive community consultation and a full ecological study of the site, with the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary having already establishing a koala fodder plantation as part of the parkland.

Alongside the plantation, the eco-parkland will include the Wildlife Sanctuary’s new koala facility - a small-scale vet unit and fodder eucalypt plantation, while other areas have been identified for wetland restoration.

View the activation plan here .

View photos of the site and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary b-roll here.

Quotes attributable to Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace:

“The Miles Government is committed to make the Currumbin Eco-Parkland a reality, because we know this project will ensure this unique natural wonder will be appreciated for generations to come.

“Through the site’s development, we’re ensuring the strong ecological values of this site are upheld while opening a world of new eco-adventure tourism for the region.

“Importantly, we have worked closely with the traditional owners, local community groups like Friends of Currumbin, environmental and sporting groups, the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and the City of Gold Coast Council to deliver this vision.

“We are committed to preserving our natural areas and environmental heritage, particularly close to major population centres.

“This is a terrific result for the Gold Coast community as well as visitors to the city.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment Leanne Linard:

“In time, a large portion of Currumbin Eco-Parkland will be dedicated as conservation park, contributing to the Miles Government’s commitment to expand Queensland’s protected areas and ensuring the parkland remains accessible to the public and future generations.

“Once works are completed, the parkland will be a magnificent addition to Queensland’s already impressive protected area estate, and will become a safe haven for an amazing array of wildlife, including koalas.

“Part of this investment is a funding allocation to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, to carry out ongoing land management activities, including fire and pest programs and revegetation works.”

Quotes attributable to Friends of Currumbin President Peter Kershaw:

“We are pleased to witness the realisation of the next phase of the Currumbin Eco-Parkland, which signifies a significant milestone.

"The tireless efforts of Friends of Currumbin in safeguarding this area over the years have now been affirmed by the Queensland Government's substantial financial commitment, marking a remarkable stride in the right direction.

"It is with great assurance that we acknowledge the protective measures embedded in this activation plan, ensuring the conservation of 46 hectares of endangered blackbutt forest for the benefit of future generations.

"We look forward to our continued collaboration with the Queensland Government and community stakeholders as we move ahead with the advancement of this project."

Quotes attributable to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary General Manager Travis Couch:

"Koala conservation is at the forefront of so much of the work we do at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.

“Investing in the future of green spaces like the Eco Parklands, will help provide food and a safe environment for our local Koalas.

“We look forward to seeing the space come to life, with new tree plantations and Koalas recovering from treatment, preparing to be released into the wild."

Quotes attributable to Kombumerri traditional owner Justine Dillon:

“Ngarang-Wal and the Kombumerri Rangers have been involved in several stages of this Currumbin (kurrohmin meaning kangaroo) project and have seen the personal and cultural benefits of working on our Traditional Country for our work team and family.

"We are working an area and site that our Kombumerri people would have once occupied and used for resources - the on-ground surveys we have participated in show an abundance of food and medicinal sources - which cements our cultural knowledge of the area.

"The level of community engagement committed to this project has helped foster many positive community and professional relations with all the stakeholders involved, especially the inclusion of our Traditional Owner body and our Ranger group being requested by “landowners and groups to engage and bring our cultural perspectives into to planning, surveys and development.”

Media contact – Kate Talbot – 0439 803 211

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Gold Coast tourism reels from ‘millions’ in losses amid Queensland storms

Beaches and theme parks among attractions closed in peak tourist season due to weather as up to a third of Airbnb bookings reported cancelled

The Gold Coast tourism industry – the region’s largest business sector – has been left reeling after “millions” of dollars in closures and cancellations during its busiest season of the year.

Many of the Gold Coasts’ major attractions, including the beach and its major theme parks including Dreamworld and Movie World, closed on Tuesday as storms continued for a second week.

Tour Collective’s managing director, Anthony Ardern, whose business offers everything from snorkelling to jetski lessons to a ferry to Moreton Island – estimates he has lost $200,000 since Christmas Eve.

“On some of our vessels we use both upstairs, open-air seating and also back-deck seating, which is affected by weather and rain,” he said. “That actually reduces our capacity by 35%.

“At our Moreton Island product, we’re carrying 120 people a day, with $20,000 a day in revenue that we make from that product. And we’ve lost four days from that already through storms and bad weather.”

The storms struck at the peak tourist season, the most important time of the year for the business.

“As the old farmers saying goes: ‘Make hay while the sun shines,’” Ardern said.

“This is our period of sunshine. And this is when the tourism industry needs to make their hay, because we typically have a drop off in the industry through February, March into the next Easter holidays.”

The Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce’s vice-president, Zac Revere, estimated the extreme weather would cost the region “millions” in cancelations alone.

“For example, in our business we deal with Airbnb. So we’re looking at cancellations left, right and centre from people who, from across the country, are just seeing this storm smash us constantly, who would rather spend their time and their money elsewhere,” he said.

Revere said as many as a third of Airbnb bookings were cancelling their reservations, according to some estimates.

On Tuesday, the Queensland and federal governments announced they had made up to $250,000 in financial support available to businesses and primary producers to replace damaged assets such as plant and equipment or to maintain liquidity. Disaster assistance loans are also available for affected businesses in the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim and Logan City council areas.

The Australian defence force will deploy to the region on Thursday to aid the cleanup.

The small business minister, Lance McCallum, said the government was also releasing a natural disaster business survey to better understand the damage.

“Recovery can be a long, hard road but I want our local small businesses to know that the Miles government has their back,” he said.

Business groups welcomed the announcement.

Meanwhile, thousands of residents are still without power.

Electrician Ben Henry said there had been so much damage done to power lines in areas including Cedar Grove that Energex planned to remove and replace the entire grid, rather than repair it.

In the meantime, there has been a run on generators and the local childcare centre is closed.

“Every set of traffic lights between Jimboomba and Beaudesert are off,” Henry said. “All the community centres are trying to do what they can.

“As a sparky, I’ve been struggling to get gear. My wholesaler’s opened up as much as they could, but they sold out. So we have to stop working.”

Ironically, the tourism industry had expected this summer to provide a relatively strong start to the year.

Business Chamber Queensland spokesperson Emma Clarke said their surveys showed that the tourist sector in Cairns and the Gold Coast had among the highest confidence in the state ahead of the December quarter.

Cairns was struck by flooding due to cyclone Jasper at the end of December.

“Already, anecdotally, we know from businesses, especially in the far north , it’s a really significant financial and emotional impact to them, their operations and their workforces,” Clarke said.

She encouraged people to head to the disaster-affected areas for a holiday to help spur on the recovery.

“That’s really important because while the power might be back on and the immediate cleanup and recovery work has finished, the financial recovery is much more significant and takes a lot longer,” Clarke said.

At Cedar Creek, south-west of Ormeau, more than 300mm of rain had fallen in the 24 hours to 9am on Tuesday – the most of any area.

There were about 700 calls to the State Emergency Service for help on Monday and Tuesday, with 50 people needing rescue from flood waters.

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that heavy rainfall and flooding could continue into Wednesday morning but the storm is likely to head north of Brisbane.

With reporting by Australian Associated Press

• Australia weather
• North Queensland floods 2023
• Tourism (Australia)
• Extreme weather

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Tourism Voucher Giveaway To Help Boost Gold Coast Recovery From Storm Damage

• Business Grants , Business News

Storm-ravaged tourism businesses on the Gold Coast will receive a further $2.5 million in support funding from the Queensland government. 50,000 vouchers, each worth $50 will be available for use at Gold Coast tourism businesses.

Some tourism businesses are still closed due to damage caused during the deadly Christmas and Boxing Day storms. Deadly storms battered south-east Queensland on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, claiming seven lives and leaving tens of thousands of homes and businesses without power. Tourism attractions across the region were heavily impacted, with some still closed due to the storm damage.

Premier Steven Miles has announced that 50,000 vouchers, each worth $50, would go on offer to stimulate the Gold Coast’s tourism economy.

How do the vouchers work?

If you spend $50 on a day tour or attraction taking part in the scheme you will receive an extra $50 credit. It means a $100 experience will put you out of pocket by $50.

Tourism and Events Queensland chief executive Patricia O’Callaghan said vouchers had been proven as a way of helping tourism businesses across the state during the COVID pandemic. She said they had proven benefits in the short- and long-term.

How do I get a tourism voucher?

Premier Steven Miles said south-east Queenslanders could access one of the 50,000 vouchers through the GC Summer FUNds website but it is yet to go live. The vouchers, when you can sign up, will be available for use until the end of March.

For more information about the stimulus, visit the Queensland Government website .

If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact the team at MGI South Qld.

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Australia’s theme park capital and home to an awe-inspiring stretch of beach, Gold Coast’s northern region is an absolute must.

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Home to cute cafes, craft breweries, modern shopping centres and marketplaces, plus some of the best live music venues on the Coast.

Escape the seaside and head to our lush hinterland. Unearth a piece of the city that’s as magical as the sandy coastline that made it famous.

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With a world famous point break, sprawling beaches, the Southern Gold Coast’s laidback vibes is renowned for its casual coastal culture.

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Sustainable Travel: Your Gold Coast Eco-Tourism Guide

19 Apr 2024

With landscapes, beaches, waterways and mountains as gorgeous as the Gold Coast’s, it’s a given that we care deeply about our environment and are big believers in eco-tourism. Our natural attractions captivate visitors and locals alike on the daily and we’re passionate about preserving them for future generations. Our outdoor lifestyle means we share a deep connection and appreciation for our stunning surrounds, and are mindful of the impact we have on it.

Lately there’s been a growing movement of Gold Coast eco-tourism operators who are all about creating a greener way to travel.  We’ve put together a list of epic experiences that showcase the organic nature of our region, with careful consideration for the planet too.

Storytelling, Jellurgal Style

The Gold Coast’s first dedicated Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Jellurgal , is owned and operated by the local Aboriginal community, and is a welcoming place to gather and learn about the rich Indigenous history the Gold Coast has to offer.

The stunning location on the banks of Tallebudgera Creek in Burleigh Heads National Park makes Jellurgal the ideal place to learn about the natural environment and First Nations culture. It’s the same place where members of the Yugumbeh language-speaking group would come together to fish, feast and celebrate thousands of years ago, and there are many Dreamtime stories associated with the surrounding landscape.

Jellurgal is home of Indigenous storytelling on the Gold Coast. Take a guided walk along the picturesque rainforest walkway with a traditional land owner, who will share stories of what life was like for the First Australians pre-contact. The centre is committed to providing an authentic experience with a moral responsibility to preserve and share Aboriginal culture, from the ground up. Location: 1711 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Eco Island Hopping

Island life is only a short plane trip from the Gold Coast. Jump on board a fixed wing aircraft and immerse yourself in the natural surrounds of the renowned Lady Elliot Island located on the Southern Barrier Reef. The island is home to an abundance of marine life including giant manta rays, turtle colonies, fluorescent coral and migrating whales with a small eco resort ensuring a light footprint is left in and around the island.

A pioneer in eco-friendly practices, Lady Elliot was the first island on the Barrier Reef to ban single use plastic, opting for drinking fountains and reusable bottles instead. All accommodation on the island is designed to minimise the environmental impact, using solar for power and a desalination plant to convert seawater to pristine fresh water.

Since 2005, the resort and island have been transformed from a degraded, rundown landscape to a world-leading eco-tourism business with sustainability programs firmly in place. Lady Elliot Island is an incredible place to connect with nature and the perfect of example of how actions we can take today can help preserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

Eco/ Retro Motel

The Mysa Motel in Palm Beach blends nostalgic charm with a new era of sustainability. When local couple, Eliza and Jase, bought the motel with the plans to update and refurb it, they wanted to ensure it was going to  have a sustainable future. While the exterior remained unchanged, upcycled and second hand materials were used wherever possible in the renovation to reduce environmental impact, including the retro breeze blocks and recycled tiles around the pool and in some of the bathrooms.

The Mysa Motel is a solar powered property and rainwater tanks are used in the toilets and gardens. Inside, eco-friendly considerations include filtered water so guests can fill up instead of resorting to single-use plastic bottles. Recycling bins are found in every room and appliances are energy-efficient and the rooms were redesigned to maximise natural ventilation and light. This eco-friendly Gold Coast accommodation is registered with the EarthCheck Climate Action Project and each year their iconic neon sign goes dark during Earth Hour, in a show of solidarity to inspire more action on climate change. Location:  1100 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

Wildlife Warriors

Nestled beside Tallebudgera Creek in West Burleigh, David Fleay Wildlife Park  gives visitors the chance to observe iconic Australian animals in enclosures that closely resemble their native habitat. Wander along the boardwalks, through native bushland to see kangaroos, koalas, dingos and tree kangaroos and visit the nocturnal house to witness possums, bilbies and a platypus swimming around his aquarium, that would be very similar to his waterhole in the wild.

Managed by the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, the park combines community education, ecotourism and wildlife conservation. Known as Australias ‘Father of Conservation’ David Fleay was an Australian scientist and zoologist who became the first person to breed platypus in captivity. Establishing the park in 1951, he insisted that birds and animals should be kept in conditions similar to their natural habitat. The naturalistic enclosures you see today reflect the philosophy that has now been adopted by most wildlife parks around the world.

Fleay’s is the only place you can see the shy bridled nailtail wallaby in captivity, thought to be extinct for over 30 years! Meeting and chatting with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers who care for the park’s unique and beautiful wildlife is always a highlight, and.so is the Fleays in Flight show, where the large birds of prey wow visitors with their spectacular wing spans and speed. Location: Loman Lane, Burleigh Heads

A Garden of Eden

Multi award winning Eden Health Retreat is Australia’s oldest wellness retreat and is all about the digital detox and reconnecting with nature. The environment that surrounds you here is healing in itself – the fresh air, songs of the natural wildlife and the pure tranquillity.

Nestled in the lush surrounds of Currumbin Valley, Eden is tranquil and mindful that people need to switch off to switch on again. From outdoor mud baths and morning meditations to long rainforest walks, accompanied by nutritional meals showcasing the freshest valley produce, this place takes full advantage of nature’s bounty. Location: 1815 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley

Whale Watching For Research

On a mission to be one of the most environmentally aware eco-adventurers in Australia, Cooly Eco Adventures is conscious of their role in preserving the marine life they are so passionate about.

Offering an array of educational experiences such as whale watching, swimming with the whales, dolphin and turtle safaris, they believe you can have fun in nature whilst being mindful of the impact on the environment. Their Citizen Science Research Expedition gives you the chance to participate in a unique experience, where you’ll be spotting whales and dolphins, and your observations will contribute to increasing knowledge and awareness of our marine creatures, while helping to improve conservation efforts.

Cooly Eco Adventures is on a mission to educate and inform budding seafaring adventurers, and spread the love for our ocean ecosystems and marine life. Location: 114 Dry Dock Rd, Tweed Heads

Binna Burra's Beauty

After the devastating fires of 2019 Binna Burra Lodge is back, giving Gold Coast eco-tourism a great reputation. Set amongst the picturesque World Heritage Listed Lamington National Park, this hinterland retreat is perched  in the hinterland 800 metres above sea level, making this dreamy location the ideal place to escape (and admire the views).

Binna Burra was listed in the Top 10 Eco-lodges in the world by Smarter Travel, with an integrated sustainable tourism plan that includes waste management and a shared responsibility to preserve the cultural and natural heritage of the National Park. Eco Certified and the first private Australian company to receive the International Green Global standards for its best practice environmental performance, it’s safe to say Binna Burra have an on-going commitment to preserve this special property for future generations. Location: 1069 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont

Surf With a Message

Australian Surf Adventures are renowned for all things surf covering the Gold Coast and Tweed. From surf lessons and camps to surf yoga retreats with the EcoGuide Australia tick of approval. Their most popular activities are the group lessons where they teach you to be a surfer in paradise, whilst having a whole lot of fun along the way.

Surfing is a way of life that connects you with nature and the crew at Australian Surf Adventures are passionate about preserving the environment and respecting the culture of the places they are blessed to work and play in each day. Where: 74 Chainey Ave, Miami

Retreat in the Valley

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retrea t is ideally located in the Tallebudgera Valley – a serene and stunning area of the Gold Coast. Australian owned and operated, the retreat is eco-tourism certified and in a world of busy, it’s a wellness destination that encourages guests to slow down, tune in and bliss out. It was recently awarded Best Eco Spa in the World Luxury Spa Awards.

A stay at Gwinganna combines organic living, a luxury spa, movement and relaxation with delicious organic cuisine and vital wellness seminars in a dedicated low tech environment. The 33 room spa sanctuary is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere is set amongst age-old towering gum trees and designed with nature in mind – contemporary pavilions seamlessly transition from inside to outdoor living. Gwinganna is part of the Land for Wildlife program and is committed to preserving the native flora and fauna of this stunning location and leaving as light a footprint as possible. Location: 192 Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera Valley

Oganic Farm Feast

Freemans Organic Farm has been a working farm since 1915 and is perched high atop Tomewin Mountain Road in Currumbin Valley, with views all the way out to the ocean.

More recently, the farm has evolved into a meeting place for the whole community, where you can stock up on organic produce, do a spot of yoga or grab a coffee and a bite to eat under the ancient trees dotted around the property. Keeping it in the family, the Freemans are all about the natural environment and how people interact with it. Location:  618 Tomewin Mountain Road

The future of sustainable travel is alive and kicking, with a growing number of Gold Coast eco-tourism operators focused on quality experiences that intend to last a lifetime and beyond.

If you enjoyed this story you might also like Where to Scuba Dive & Snorkel on the Gold Coast .

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Kylie Mitchell-Smith

After more than two-decades in the media game, Kylie Mitchell-Smith (@travellingsenorita) digs deeper and goes underground to find the story. Frequenting far and wide to unique destinations all over the world, Kylie recounts her travels in her weekly Travelling Senorita blog and podcast adventures which are always laden with plenty of local food and wine bars.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Destination Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.    We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.