Marine Qld appeals for Gold Coast Council to consult on Tipplers

by Marine Qld on 23 Feb 2010 Marine Queensland has voiced serious concerns with the Gold Coast City Council’s handling of the popular boating site, Tipplers Resort, destined for development following Council purchase of the land last year.

Marine destinations are essential community and tourism facilities within the Gold Coast region. Boating destinations are important community assets and are a critical part of the recreational and light commercial marine industry for the Gold Coast. They are essential for many community boating clubs, marine tourism operators and marine industry operators.

Marine Queensland General Manager, Don Jones, said the acquisition and subsequent closure by Council of the Tipplers Resort has significant implications for the marine industry in the region and called on Council to urgently enter into meaningful consultation with the marine industry.

“The handling of this issue leaves much to be desired. It is far more important than petty local politics and face saving. We have consistently said we have a plan for this destination which will deliver many benefits to the local community as well as visitors and the industries that support them in the region. To date no meaningful consultation has occurred and it is time to engage with the experts to deliver a solution to the Gold Coast Community urgently.” said Jones.

The recreational marine industry on the Gold Coast is one of the largest within Australia. It creates and supports many jobs, creates wealth for the local community and plays a critical role in the management of pristine marine environments. Activities such as boating and fishing have become popular and affordable holiday and recreation alternatives for visitors to the region. However, the Council’s handling of this issue will have significant implications for the Marine Industry as well as Tourism and the many supporting industries in the region.

“This decision will not only affect recreational boat owners, but will have a significant impact on Queensland’s marine industry as a whole. The ongoing waste of community funds should cease immediately.” stated Jones.

“There are sensible solutions to this issue that will advantage the Gold Coast community and provide a real return on this important community asset,” said Jones. “This issue has dragged on for far too long. We call on the Mayor and Councilors to urgently enter into meaningful consultation with the industry.”

The Gold Coast City Council will call for public expressions of interest for the redevelopment of Tipplers resort on South Stradbroke Island.

Councillor Bob La Castra told yesterday's council meeting that public submissions for a kiosk, cafe or restaurant and accommodation should be explored.

Marine Action Group spokesman, Keith Douglas says many people are upset the former resort has been transformed into a nature-based recreation reserve.

'We are talking about representatives that have to reflect the view of the public and in this case they have been very much bunkered down and not wanting to talk to us because this issue has been very difficult for the council and there has been a lot of public anger and lot of public backlash,' he said.