Latest news with #GoldCoastCity
RNZ News
3 days ago
- Climate
- RNZ News
Erosion on Gold Coast beaches could take three years to recover from Cyclone Alfred
By Nicholas McElroy, ABC Exposed rock walls near Narrowneck on the Gold Coast three months after Cyclone Alfred. Photo: ABC News: Nicholas McElroy It is the last line of defence for properties on the Gold Coast - and high tides keep crashing against it. Three months after Cyclone Alfred hit the the coast, parts of the city's "A-Line" rock wall remain exposed. Beach walkers and residents on the northern Gold Coast say they cannot see it being fixed in a hurry. "It's just ruined the beaches, the high tide comes right up to the wall," said Main Beach resident Rod Clutton. Damage at Narrowneck Beach on the Gold Coast three months after the cyclone. Photo: ABC News: Nicholas McElroy More than $30 million has been spent on a sand-pumping barge so far, but successive swells and high tides have hurt recovery efforts. "I just don't know how it's going to be fixed," Clutton said. The Gold Coast's beaches could take up to three years to fully recover from the storm, according to the council. It said Cyclone Alfred was the worst weather event to hit the city in 50 years, and beaches were the narrowest they had been in 25 years. Although it might look bad, the beaches have eroded many times before. Cyclone Alfred ripped an estimated 6 million cubic metres - or 2000 Olympic swimming pools - of sand from beaches across the city. A bulldozer shifting sand on Surfers Paradise Beach at low tide. Photo: ABC News: Nicholas Mc Elroy But coastal engineer Angus Jackson said the sand should not be thought of as "lost". "We know from 60 years of survey data that sand is gradually moving onshore, so nothing is lost," said Jackson, chief executive engineer at International Coastal Management. "It's just constantly translating offshore [and] onshore." The beaches are still vulnerable to future storm events. While there are plenty of spots to pop down a towel on the city's 52 kilometres of beaches, the worst visible impacts are north of Surfers Paradise. That includes Narrowneck Beach, which gets its name from the narrow strip of land separating the Nerang River from the Pacific Ocean. "We've got to protect all our beaches, especially our vulnerable points," Tate said. "Because if Mother Nature comes with another [Cyclone] Oswald to Narrowneck right now, it could potentially break through." The council said it planned to move more than 1 million cubic metres of sand to beaches over the next year. Tate said he would "work to find a long-term solution to make sure Narrowneck would be safe for the future". Dredge works have been ongoing after the storm. Photo: ABC Gold Coast: Steve Keen He pointed to existing artificial reefs at Narrowneck and Palm Beach, which were built to protect the coastline from extreme weather events. Breakwalls, rock groynes and a network of pipes and sand stockpiles are used to nourish the beaches on the Gold Coast. There have been a number of proposals to protect Surfers Paradise beach over the years. Jackson said a fringing reef built offshore could be a solution to protect the coastline. He said it would minimise the impacts on the beaches by softening the blows of a large storm swell. "[The water offshore] would look like it looks now unless we get a storm with over 5-metre waves," Jackson said. "Suddenly you'd see the waves breaking out towards the horizon and the energy not reaching those upper beaches. "Day to day, you wouldn't know it was there," he said. The beach separates a lot of real estate from the ocean. Photo: ABC Gold Coast: Dominic Cansdale Jackson, whose company has won Gold Coast contracts, said a project could build on lessons learnt from artificial reefs at Narrowneck and Palm Beach. "We can have this hidden protection that's below water level," he said. "With sea-level rise, you gradually increase the height of the reef." At the end of the day, Jackson said it was important to get sand back onto the shore to soften the blow of any future storms. "What we need is a enough buffer zone so when we get that storm hit, instead of it [surf] being in the middle of the Esplanade, it's back [on the sand] and we still have a usable beach," Jackson said. He said council's recovery timeline seemed conservative, and sand would soon be pushed toward the exposed rock walls. "That's the first time we've seen that [Narrowneck] boulder wall in 26 years. It'll recover again - the sand backpassing will bring sand back," he said. "We've made the beaches much more resilient, they're not natural anymore, they're very much managed." - ABC
ABC News
5 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Gold Coast residents slugged one-off $10 payment in rates for cyclone clean-up
Gold Coast ratepayers will help foot the $50 million clean-up bill from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred with households charged a one-off $10 levy in the city's budget that was handed down today. It is on top of a general rate increase of 2.7 per cent for owner occupiers which Mayor Tom Tate pegged to Brisbane's inflation figures for the March quarter. The controversial "view tax" on high rise apartments will remain and properties registered as short-term rentals like Airbnb will continue to be pay a premium. The Gold Coast City Council is the country's second largest local government, with a budget of $2.678 billion, an increase of $215 million from last financial year. A record $1 billion dollars will be spent on capital works, with heavy investment in transport and infrastructure in preparation for next decade's Olympics. The city's disaster and emergency management funding increased to $39 million following two major natural disasters in the past 18 months — the 2023 Christmas Day storms which ripped through the region's hinterland and March's cyclone. The mayor said it could take three years before the beaches returned to their former glory. "It's about having the funds build up for future resilience. We don't know what Mother Nature's going to hit us up with so that money will be really for recovery and resilience," he said. "If it means we're going to need more halls and evacuation centres out west, that's what it's going to go to." Previously announced funding of $15 million for the design and business case for Light Rail Stage 4, extending the tram from Burleigh to Coolangatta airport, remains in the budget. But the mayor expressed his frustration that the state government was dragging its feet. "Transport infrastructure is the number one project. Without it, my prediction is that it will be gridlocked down south." Savings were found through job cuts at council but the mayor refused to say how many roles were lost. Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel said the council was using artificial intelligence to reduce operational costs. Despite lobbying from some councillors, Cr Tate also kept in place the 10 per cent early payment discount for rates. "It's been in place on the Gold Coast for the past 40 years and for future mayors, if they want to remove this, I think they take it to an election like I did," Cr Tate said. Hinterland councillor Glen Tozer was the only one to speak against the budget, citing his opposition to money earmarked for a commercial feasibility study in the controversial Springbrook cableway. He said the national park risked being stripped of its World Heritage listing if the project went ahead. "I have grave reservations about the environmental credentials," he said. "I'm not convinced it can be delivered in line with a commitment to a strict environmental assessment."
Daily Telegraph
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Telegraph
Nerang Administration Centre: Plans for affordable housing at ageing Gold Coast site
Don't miss out on the headlines from Gold Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News. The rundown Nerang Administration Centre could be turned into an affordable housing precinct under a radical City plan to address the Gold Coast's accommodation crisis. Built in 1976 as the base for the former Albert Shire Council before amalgamation the building, which is renowned for its water leaks, houses 1000 Gold Coast City Council staffers. City officers are investigating options for its future use but council sources reveal discussions are already underway with the State Government on creating an affordable housing precinct on the edge of the Nerang CBD. The added benefit is other facilities like a community hall being moved to the centre of town. Councillor Peter Young supports the move, which could see a public-private partnership. 'There are lots of moving parts at the moment in relation to the administration centre site, the Bicentennial centre site and the future of community facilities, and lots of options in the mix,' he said. The Nerang Administration Centre, which was once the old Albert Shire council chambers, is on a site which could be converted for affordable housing. 'My primary focus is on the provision of high quality facilities to serve the community of Nerang and the surrounding suburban and hinterland areas — for example, an evacuation centre, auditorium and meeting rooms along with customer service. 'I welcome the potential for affordable housing on the current administration site – Nerang desperately needs additional population to support local businesses and commerce. 'However, there will be a need to focus on the quality of such residential development and the communities that we create.' Mr Young said he was working with City CEO Tim Baker and other senior staffers and consultants in the pursuit of a final outcome. 'It is an exciting prospect but there are many challenges,' he said. The Nerang Bicentennial Community Centre, part of a large site which could become an affordable housing project. Mayor Tom Tate said the City's recent purchase of the Corporate Centre had consolidated office accommodation in the Bundall precinct and was made on the back of moving out of Nerang. 'Having staff, contractors and councillors commuting between Bundall and Nerang for 30 years since amalgamation has been anything but ideal and I think it shows the current council is prepared to make hard decisions that benefit the City's operations,' he said. Sources suggest the state government Housing Department was in the past reluctant to consider the Nerang site. Council employees at the Nerang offices. City councillors and senior managers are planning to meet with Housing Minister Sam O'Connor on June 13, where talks will include the current homeless crisis. With dozens of rough sleepers at Carey Park in Southport highlighting a lack of low cost housing, the spotlight is on providing more accommodation in the city. A pile of belongings from a homeless person evicted from Carey Park at Southport. Other rough sleepers said council had instructed to leave it near the footpath. Gaven MP and former Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon supports the City's housing plan. 'Unlike LNP NIMBY Housing Minister Sam O'Connor who axes housing in his own backyard, I support affordable housing in my community,' Ms Scanlon said. 'Building homes here would at least go some way to making up for the hundreds of affordable houses the LNP have already scrapped on the Gold Coast.' Mr O'Connor and Ms Scanlon had previously clashed on Labor's plan for affordable housing at the old Arundel golf course site. Originally published as Nerang Administration Centre site considered for affordable housing precinct
News.com.au
27-05-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
How to buy on the Gold Coast for under $200,000
Have you ever wondered what $200,000 will buy you on the Gold Coast? Frankly, it is not much, but if you are prepared to drastically alter your dream, you can still do it. 1. OFF-GRID LIVING Lodge 25 on Soiuth Stradbroke Island features two large bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, living area and a sun deck overlooking the lagoon. It is also being sold fully furnichsed with offers over $175,000 considered. But there is a catch. There is always a catch. It is located in the troubled Couran Cove Resort. 'Please Note : Currently all power, water and gas has been disconnected on Couran Cove resort and the resort is closed,' the listing says, adding that despite these key features being turned off, the body corporate fees are still approximately $6500 a year, albeit they have 'dropped considerably'. The listing notes that the body corporates are working on a number of infrastructure projects. 'The home has a camping-style solar powered electrical supply with a generator for back up, has legally connected gas supply with 9kg bottles, has 4000 litre rainwater storage capacity and pump,' the listing says. 'This system is operational but should be considered a temporary solution for off-grid living.' A studio apartment in the resort is listed for offers over $70,000. 2. OVER 50s Located in Pine Ridge caravan village, this one bedroom caravan annex home is listed for offers between $79,000 and $93,000. 'Other benefits are no Gold Coast City council rates or stamp duty, and you own your home but not the land,' the listing says. 'There is a site fee of approximately $236.25 per week which includes Gold Coast water fees, and you only pay for electricity, gas if applicable and phone internet connections.' It features a small front veranda, seperate living and dining spaces, a large bedroom, bathroom, kitchen with gas cooktops, a double extended carport and shed. There is also a study nook, window awnings and front veggie gardens. Onsite amenities include a pool, BBQ area and fully maintained gardens. 3. BUY A BERTH If bricks and mortar are out of reach, there is always the option of buying a marina berth, with prices ranging from $90,000 (16m) to $250,000 (30m). Located in the Hope Island Resort Marina, the listing says that freehold marina berths on the GC are 'rare'. 'These berths are just like buying a block of land but it has water on it and of course you can moor your boat there or rent it out,' the listing says. It adds that the berths come with low body corporate fees and high rental returns making then 'better than money in the bank'. There is also an onsite manager, 24 hour security, and a protected harbour with house boats welcome. 4. RENTVESTORS LOOK HERE Single villas with solid returns are listed for sale in Merrimac, each eaqrning $580 to $590 per fortnight. 'Please note: due to the current pension scheme/DA/gov accreditation over this community, these units are for pensioner tenants to occupy and come with leases attached, sorry no owner occupiers,' the listing notes. 'Each of the single accommodations are fully resourced, servicing those looking for affordable assisted living accommodation.' Each single level villa comes fully equipped, ready for any tenant to move in, and features a kitchenette, open plan lounge area with durable flooring, a queen sized bedroom with a built-in robe, airconditioning/ceiling fans, a large bathroom/combined laundry with washer/dryer, security screen, privacy blinds and an undercover patio at the front and an open air patio at the back. 'Assisted Living at Bougainvillea Lodge & Westminster House offers your tenants a peaceful lifestyle with privacy and security, within a friendly communal environment,' the listing says. 'Virtually no vacancy, with a waiting list to live here, so you can enjoy the secure returns and protection of your investment with the bonus of having full time managers onsite to help with the residents everyday needs.' 5. STUDIO WITH A VIEW On the market for offers over $199,000, this 37sq m bolthole is located in Mantra on View, right in the heart of Surfers Paradise. 'The perfect investment that provides you a myriad of choices…Enjoy a weekend getaway or holiday escape with the assurance of high income through the hotel management or Airbnb,' the listing says. 'This is one of two exceptional buying opportunities that we currently have available within the building and at this price point the representation of value on offer will not be matched. Buy one or buy both.' The studio apartment has a balcony, bathroom, and is being sold fully furnished.
Daily Mail
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Hollywood movie starring Owen Wilson leaves locals furious after road closures for film shoot cause major disruptions
A film shoot for a major Hollywood movie starring Owen Wilson has left Gold Coast locals frustrated following road closures and major disruptions to businesses. The Wedding Crashers star, 56, is currently Down Under shooting his latest action thriller Runner. The Gold Coast Bulletin reported residents in the suburb of Labrador were left fearful that their cars might be towed after production shut down Marine Parade, and they awoke to find tow trucks 'loaded with cars' on the suburban street. One resident, Emily Pickering, took to a local community Facebook group on Monday night to share an image that showed two tow trucks on the street - one loaded with a car. 'If your car is still parked on Marine Pde you're getting towed tonight by the looks of it, you might want to try go move your car quickly!' she wrote. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. 'Tow trucks non-stop coming and going.' However, the publication reported that 'dozens' of cars were still parked on the road on Tuesday morning. A Gold Coast City Council spokesperson said that the production had informed locals of the road closure and warned them not to park on a 600-metre stretch of Marine Parade from 3pm on Monday afternoon. 'The Public Notification clearly stated where and when parking would be prohibited due to filming,' spokesperson said. 'Vehicles parked illegally in 'no parking' or 'no stopping' areas can be towed away at any time.' Further, local councillor Joe Wilkinson shared a reminder to his Facebook page on Monday, featuring a map of the affected area. 'Residents and businesses in the area should have received a letterbox drop and door knock from the production company by this stage, and VMS boards will be in place to keep everyone informed,' he wrote. 'Thank you for your patience and support as we showcase our beautiful city.' Traffic control officers told the publication that two cars had been moved to a side street while a member of the film crew said that the only cars towed were stunt and prop cars. The spokesperson added that police advised six affected residents to move their cars, and that one car was towed to a safe location. 'It was not impounded and the owner was notified of the location,' the spokesperson said. 'The production will cover the cost of the towing.' It comes after the production closed down major road in another Gold Coast suburb, Robina, on Monday, leaving local business owners furious. Local business owner Heleina Jacovide told the Gold Coast Bulletin said that she was annoyed at the closure of the stretch of Robina Parkway, claiming she had only been given a day's notice. 'We only got told on Friday. In that time we've had to contact all our clients, we've had cancellations. It definitely has impacted us and impacted the other businesses along here,' she said. Other business owners and employees also reported disruptions to trade as a result of the closure. Local councillor Dan Doran told the publication he had opposed the road closure over potential impact to local business. 'It was my view that it would cause too much disruption to locals, commuters and business, and that the notification period was too short,' he said. Owen is currently in Australia to film the action thriller Runner on the Gold Coast in Queensland. He will star alongside Reacher star Alan Ritchson, and play the role of Ben, a medical courier charged with transporting an organ for a life-saving transplant. Alan will portray Ben's begrudging bodyguard as the mission turns deadly when the leader of a crime syndicate becomes hell-bent on claiming the organ. The action drama will be helmed by Scott Waugh, who directed the 2014 clip Need for Speed and, more recently in 2023, Expendables 4.
