Operator News
Australia – Councillors back Gold Coast casino project
By Phil - 28 August 2013
Gold Coast City councillors in Queensland, Australia, have voted to continue supporting the development of a cruise ship terminal and casino development at Wavebreak Island or the Southport Spit.
The Southport Spit is already home to Sea World, Sea World Resort, the Sheraton Mirage Resort and Palazzo Versace. Advocates of the casino project say that as a fundamental part of a larger development called the Broadwater Marine Project, it provides an opportunity to cement The Gold Coat’s tourist appeal as it looks to host the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Although 11 of the 15 councillors backed the project, it is not without its critics.
An online poll by a local Gold Coast site showed that around 82 per cent of people were opposed to a casino with only 18 per cent providing support for the proposal.
Councillor Neville Tisch slammed the casino critics as ‘simple minded’.
“The casino will cover the cost of the other facilities built there; a cruise ship terminal is a must somewhere on the GC,” he explained. “Also the Asians love to gamble, we are missing this income.”
The Broadwater Marine Project is a joint initiative of the Queensland Government and Gold Coast City Council seeking private sector investment to deliver what could be the largest piece of integrated tourism infrastructure developed in Queensland’s history.
The world-class project seeks delivery of a cruise ship terminal on State Government-owned land on The Spit or on Wave Break Island in the Broadwater.
In addition to the terminal, the potential multi-billion dollar integrated tourism project could include hotel, casino marina and super yacht facilities, retail, entertainment, hospitality, residential uses, community open space, recreation facilities and a mix of residential (types and tenure).
A Gold Coast cruise ship terminal and associated tourism infrastructure have the potential to boost tourist visitation, increasing expenditure into the state and local economies and creating jobs.
On 10 July 2013 the Queensland Government released a Request for Detailed Proposals (RFDP) to the shortlisted proponents. Shortlisted proponents will be expected to submit detailed proposals by October 2013. Following evaluation of proposals a preferred proponent is expected to be announced in early 2014.
The Gold Coast is already a major tourist destination with its subtropical climate, surfing beaches, canal and waterway systems. It already boasts theme parks, nightlife, and several casinos making tourism one of its most significant industries.
