Southern Gold Coast
News

With the new restrictions coming into effect over the weekend this is your guide to how our border works now.

Minister for Finance, Mathias Cormann, has ended discussion surrounding the design of the JobKeeper scheme in the wake of Victoria's rise in cases.

The Queensland Government has made further amendments to the restrictions on businesses and activities relevant to the tourism and events industry.

In response to the Federal Government’s release of a Code of Conduct regulating commercial leases, the Queensland Government has introduced regulations under the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act 2020.

The results of the recent CCIQ-Suncorp Pulse Survey of Business Conditions are in and its showing COVID-19 is still wreaking havoc across Queensland.

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training wants to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world moves online, Golden Words is your friendly and affordable solution to concise, clear and error free communication.

With Transport Minister, Mark Bailey, confirming that consultation held in March showed support for the highway route; here is your update on the road ahead...literally.

Small and family businesses have faced difficulties with their insurance companies, ASBFEO have launched an inquiry to investigate the practices of the insurance industry and consider whether insurance products are fit for purpose.

Currumbin MP, Laura Gerber, is offering some support in these frustrating and confusing times.

Hundreds of “zombie” businesses have warned the government they will close their doors when the JobKeeper cash runs out. PM warned 1 in 10 businesses won’t survive after support ends.

Koalas are set to dine out on the success of one of the last major gatherings held on the Gold Coast before the Coronavirus pandemic forced the shutdown of the international events industry.

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital team are seeking support of businesses to donate a raffle or auction item to be used in an upcoming raffle in September.

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

Based on the Gold Coast, the team at REM has been delivering integrated Graphic Design and Print solutions to help clients across Australia grow their brands since 2011.

Exciting news! Pop the champagne! Tell your friends! Plan your trip! 11-20 September 2020

Check out the latest news on all things road works, local council investment and planning. Keep up to date with what happening in the local area and plan ahead for your small business.

New directions has been given to reinstate the restriction for businesses to ensure all dining and drinking is for seated patrons, and provide clarity for event organisers.

Southern Gold Coast business owners are aghast at Mayor Tom Tate’s push for light rail to sidestep Palm Beach and its “whingers”, fearing they will miss a huge commercial bump.

Understanding the role your private (company) policy plays in conjunction with public (legal) policy.

Started in 1976 in Toowoomba, Queensland, this Australian owned company continues to go above and beyond in the pursuit of justice.

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills has welcomed the return of the Gold Coast-Adelaide service, which will help to restart part of our visitor economy

Single-use plastic such as straws and plates will be banned under new legislation tabled in Queensland Parliament.

Travel agents, aviation staff and the “working poor’’ are among the thousands of Gold Coasters bracing for “disaster” once JobKeeper payments stop in September.

The following courses and webinars are offered by a number of government and industry bodies. Eligibility requirements may apply.

Chamber President, Hilary Jacobs, has backed Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate's suggestion to move the border checkpoint south to Banora Point.

Don't miss this opportunity: close on 31 July 2020.

At 2020 Business Consulting; Small and Medium Business Owners can achieve their personal and business goals through coaching and consulting with a focus on delivering tangible results.

Peter Blades is very proud of what Mango Kar Dynamix is accomplishing and knows the importance of delivering a premium and quality Gold Coast Car Cleaning service.

THE State Government has killed off talk of a global tourism hub on the Gold Coast – and will not sign off on a monopoly deal with The Star for its Broadbeach casino-resort.

Queensland’s borders have officially reopened to all states except Victoria, The Gold Coast Airport will reopen on Friday 10th of July and Mayor Tom Tate calls for Coolangatta border to be moved south to Tweed.

The Morrison Government is delivering on its commitment to help small businesses lower their power bills and play their part in reducing Australia’s emissions.

Is your business doing the right thing? After a Gold Coast business was fined an eye-watering amount for allegedly failing to comply with COVID-19 rules, see how you can do the right thing.

Here is your running guide on major road, path and parking upgrades near your business.

The CCIQ-Suncorp Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce Pulse survey is now open and we need YOUR voice.

Join host, Zac Revere with Connecting Southern Gold Coast CEO, Josh Martin, as the two discuss the role of the events industry in capturing the identity of our community while supporting local business.

Established in 1958, Robbins Watson Solicitors is a mid-sized, well respected, multi-discipline Gold Coast law firm which has maintained a team of solicitors providing expert legal advice and practical help to clients for over 60 years.

Founded in 1958 by Frank McLaughlin, the firm’s history is dotted with milestone decisions that helped shape the development of its home city, the Gold Coast.

Starting in 1983, this Tweed Heads firm is focused on delivering the best outcomes, efficiently and affordably.

The Queensland Government recently launched the Jobs Finder Queensland portal.

See how Qantas and a Japanese musician's 2019 partnership is keeping our state connected internationally in 2020.

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer has approved an Industry Framework for COVID Safe Events. All event organisers need to familiarise themselves with the approved Industry Framework.

Maree Adshead unpacks the first months activities for the Office of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner and provides key tips for small business, including financial counselling, negotiating leases and securing agreements.

The funding round for South East Queensland remains open. Please continue to submit your application.

Read the latest news in brief from Minister for Industry, Science and Technology & Federal Member for McPherson: Hon Karen Andrews MP

Safe Work Australia has created a new COVID-19 work health and safety information hub for small businesses.

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

Queensland’s Roadmap to Easing COVID-19 restrictions outlines a staged approach to giving Queenslanders more freedom to travel, participate in more activities and hold more gatherings.

Cr Gail O'Neill (Councillor for Division 14 of the City of Gold Coast) talks with Zac as the they discuss the recently adopted city budget.

Join host Zac Revere and guest Steve Edgar, GM of the Surf Club Coolangatta, as they discuss the importance of a traditional Australian staple (such as the local surf club) being able to adapt and embrace the challenge of COVID-19.

The Sanctuary was forced to close due to the COVID-19 restrictions, however the iconic Sanctuary has now re-opened it's doors in time for the school holidays.

Following the council resolution from 2018, our council-owned entity of Connecting Southern Gold Coast will be wound up from 30 June, 2020, so it's time to say goodbye to the team based in Coolangatta.

Focus Plus Service Auditors have been helping businesses implement change and improve their customer service standard since 2005.

This Palm Beach business is busier than ever, supporting their clients as they navigate their way through unprecedented levels of uncertainty and a minefield of financial support.

Last year there were some changes to the Queensland workers compensation system because of amendments to the Workers Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). A second raft of changes, many of which could affect your business, will come into force next week on 1 July 2020.

There has been some confusion around the COVID-Safe Industry Plan and the COVID-CLEAN Practicing Business Program.

See the below for a break down on these two topics.

The Road to Recovery with the 2020/21 GCCC budget update with Cr Gail O'Neill, Councillor for Division 14 of the City of Gold Coast.

As restrictions begin to ease, it's never been more important to keep our small business community in business.

National Minimum Wage and Modern Award wages increase by 1.75%: Fair Work Commission decision issued 19 June.

Recently another wave of free or low cost training opportunities have become available to individuals and businesses as part of the Government response to COVID-19.

The City of Gold Coast is providing $500,000 in funding to support community organisations in their endeavours to respond and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

Join host Zac Revere and guest Michael Kelly, GM of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, to explore the lead up to the COVID-19 crisis and what is need for the tourism industry to recover.

In this episode, join host Zac Revere with Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce President, Hilary Jacobs, as they address the broader context of the road ahead for the southern Gold Coast Business Community.

With sweeping views of the Gold Coast, located directly across from world renowned surf break, Kirra Beach, you will have to agree that Kirra Beach Hotel has the best seat in the house.

See how Southern Cross University can help you regain control over your businesses future, enrol in a short course this July.

Last time these Grants ran out in less than 5 days, so get in quick if you want to apply, there are only 10,000 grants so less than 3% of QLD SME's will be lucky!

As restrictions ease and businesses embrace their COVID-Safe plans, our biggest tourism operators are beginning to re-open their doors. See which operators and when below.

Crowley Calvert & Holmes are offering this tax-saving strategy prior to 1 July 2020.

Introducing Shop Local: an online marketplace being created to address the challenges small retail businesses in local communities face.

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

In many ways, COVID-19 has changed the way in which the real estate industry conducts its business ... but that question lies ... will it be 'forever'?

The Currumbin RSL has officially reopened its doors. Their first guests were lucky enough to experience the newly renovated bar and dining areas.

$5 million to 15 Queensland airports to secure new domestic flights & $11 million to support Gold Coast tourism icons to continue to pay workers through the COVID-19 pandemic. See more here.

Restaurants at a major Gold Coast venue are opening again after being forced to close due to coronavirus restrictions.

Gold Coast businesses still waiting on border relief and Mayor Tom Tate has joined them

After the longest extended closure in its 72-year history, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will be reopening its doors to the public and is excited to welcome you back.

A central campaign will flow into over 30 local chambers spread across the state, empowering each area to represent and speak on behalf of their local & small businesses, unveiling the hidden gems that seldom few ever find.

A fully online business offering micro, small and medium sized businesses the opportunity of a secure and simple online presence. They Speak your language and keep your business online.

Running an efficient operation is more pressing now than ever before. At Streamline For Success, we partner with small businesses to help them automate, scale and grow.

Queensland’s Small Business Champion, Maree Adshead has been announced as the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, to help small business recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Frustrated owners and workers from the Gold Coast tourism industry have staged a noisy protest against Queensland’s ongoing border closure.

Gold Member, Crowley Calvert & Holmes Pty Ltd, advice for the coming EOFY.

Nominate Today!

Submissions have now been extended until the end of the month.

Check out your Southern Gold Coast, industry-specific, latest public health direction.

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation is calling for your support in their 2020 Tax Appeal.

As we all start moving into the Post-COVID 19 recovery phase the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce will be leading the discussion about how recovery and growth can be achieved.

Not burdened by big firm bureaucracy, Southside Legal is able to swiftly put into process the necessary action to achieve results. Down to earth advice is always provided as soon as possible.

Opening in 2020, the four-star hotel touts 192 rooms, sweeping views over Kirra beach and a few more surprises to come. Rydges Gold Coast is prepared to surprise once COVID-19 restrictions ease.

The roadmap to easing Queensland's restrictions has now been updated to reflect Stage Two commencing from Monday, 1 June 2020.

The tourism industry has welcomed the weekend's announcements by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk about the next stage of eased COVID-19 restrictions for the state.

Did you miss out? You're not alone. SGC Chamber President Hilary Jacobs stands up for small business and explains the $100 million scheme was simply not enough.

To help guide a more certain timetable for tourism restart, and with input from the ACCI Tourism Policy Committee, the Tourism Restart Taskforce has proposed a timetable for tourism restart.

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training wants to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday 5th June, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary welcomes back the locals with the return of the iconic Sanctuary markets.

There's never been a better time to reset with a flexible Southern Cross University degree.

While Chef Jess tinkers with the menu and Front of House Manager Brendan sets the tables, locals wait patiently for a chance to get back into everyone's favourite bar & grill.

As the call to open Queensland’s borders amplifies, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) and SGC President Hilary Jacobs calls to open travel to support local businesses.

The latest Suncorp Pulse Survey for the March Quarter shows that business confidence and conditions for Queensland and on the Gold Coast are now at their lowest levels ever recorded with the worst not yet being realised.

If you are looking to re-open your doors, here is a simple break down of what's required to be compliant with all Queensland Government regulations.

The Palaszczuk Queensland Government has announced $100 million in grants and training.

Australia Post is working hard to move more parcels for you and your customers during these challenging times. We’re currently processing over 2 million parcels every day which is even than our busiest period at Christmas.

Employers are now on the front lines of the recovery phase, here is how you can help with rising unemployment.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary together with Southern Gold Coast partners, Tropical Fruit World and Jellurgal Aboriginal and Cultural Centre have put together a Southern Gold Coast shout out to tourism industry trade to let them know that even though you can’t travel right now, that they are all still thinking of them.

We all knew training was important internally, now it's vital externally in these unprecedented times.

Where the usual student groans at the idea of another day at school, PBC is recording record attendances in their first week back.

TAFE Queensland offers excellent opportunities to support your business and to upskill your staff as part of its COVID-19 response.

A message to all their members and guests in regards to the impact of the government's recently released recovery roadmaps.

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training is keeping us informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Live from Aus' brought some of Australia’s best tourism offerings ‘live’ into the living rooms of hundreds of thousands of Australians. It highlighted the best that Australian tourism has to offer, from Australia’s unique culture to stunning natural beauty, world class food and drink and exceptional wildlife.

Newly elected Currumbin State MP Laura Gerber talks to SGC Chamber Board Member Michael Kelly about her thoughts on the Southern Gold Coast and how she plans on helping small business.

The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) endorsed micro-credentials offers alternative current skilling solutions that provides direct benefit to tourism and hospitality businesses, and their workforce.

Palm Beach SLSC is encouraging business to connect in order to learn and sustain.

Sun Gold Coast's response to Covid-19: rise to the occasion.

The 6th biennial Global Wave Conference held in February 2020 at Southern Cross University in Bilinga has become the first Australian event to be STOKE certified.

Businesses across Queensland are relieved to hear the announcement that JobKeeper payments will be exempt from Payroll Tax

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

This year the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation invites all SGC member businesses to a first of its kind – 2020 Virtual Benefit Under the Stars.

From learning how to cook, getting your monday motivation or keeping up with your CPR Refresher: there is a lot to learn from The Surf Club Coolangatta and its response to current times.

While many businesses have closed their doors, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has found an innovative way to keep their doors open and continue their support for flora and fauna.

Meet our latest and newest addition to the team who will help build community awareness of your business.

Polling day for the council elections was held on Saturday 28th of March with both Division 13 and 14 returning the sitting Councillors.

Thousands of jobs will be created as work begins on major Gold Coast infrastructure projects including the light rail and Coomera Connector.

Our peak tourism body Destination Gold Coast has commenced the strategy on bringing visitors back to our famous Gold Coast.

Find out about the latest changes to the Federal Governments JobKeeper program including a change to the minimum age for certain eligable employees.

During this period of hibernation, there is no better time to start learning, acquire a new skill, or try something different. For employers, a fully funded option to upskill your workforce during this time.

Award winning portrait artist Jeska Valk creates stunning work for the latest episode of House Rules airing on Channel 7.

The iconic ANZAC Day Dawn Service won’t be held this year at Elephant Rock, but they are pleased to advise that Currumbin RSL will be streaming a pre-recorded mid-morning service at 11am through social channels.

COVID-19 crisis invites creativity - Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation invites you to celebrate the 2020 Benefit Under the Stars - a virtually charged global event!

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training is sending this message to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Australian and Queensland Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our Chamber of Commerce is made up of like minded business owners and we want to help your business get some messaging out to our members and friends about the great things that you are doing.

TAFE Queensland has new initiatives with regard to Skills and Workforce Development that are either free or low cost training, career profiling or consultancy services that TAFE Queensland or the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training will be offering to enable people to continue to develop their skills and make the most of learning opportunities (and the time they may now have to learn).

As the owner of an investment property in Queensland, if you are not already aware of the Palaszczuk Government’s proposed Special COVID-19 Protections for residential tenants and landlords, The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) wants to ensure you understand them.

A briefing was provided to residents and businesses from Transport & Main Roads about the Pacific Motorway (M1) Varsity Lakes to Tugun Upgrade

The Board of the Southern Chamber of Commerce extends its best wishes to those of you being affected during these challenging times. Many businesses are doing it tough, so now more than ever we need to support each other to get through the difficult months and even years ahead.

With the introduction of the proposed the wage subsidy solution from the Commonwealth Government, many operators are not in a position to come up with the cash to pay wages until May when the federal funding arrives.

The Board of the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) has announced the departure of CEO Jonathan Fisher after 12 years of service beginning at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and over the last 6 years as CEO of the National Trust of Australia (Queensland).

The Federal Government announced $130 billion in coronavirus wage subsidies for businesses to pay workers.

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training is sending this message to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Australian and Queensland Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the restrictions put in place by the State Government to restrict movement over the border, workers will need a pass to gain access.

Gold Coast council has unveiled a range of measures including the waiving of a long list of fees and charges as part of their COVID-19 stimulus package.

Businesses to benefit through immediate payroll tax refunds. Industry focused package to support large employers and helping people stay employed

Your Chamber of Commerce is providing you with details of how you can seek assistance during these unprecedented times.

Southern Gold Coasters are being encouraged to come forward and have their say on the proposed route for the light rail extension from Burleigh to Tugun

Meet Bern, council candidate for Division 13

Meet Scott, council candidate for Division 13

Meet Katrina, council candidate for Division 13

Meet Daphne, council candidate for Division 13

Meet Gail, council candidate for Division 14

Meet Gloria, council candidate for Division 14

Meet Laura, candidate in the state by-election for Currumbin

Meet Kaylee, Labour candidate for the State seat of Currumbin

Meet Nicholas, candidate in the by-election for Currumbin

Meet Sally, candidate in the state by-election for Currumbin

Nominate today for the Queensland Training Awards Small Employer of the Year!

A NEW two-way road will be built alongside the southern stretch of the M1 as the first details emerge of a $1 billion Pacific Motorway upgrade.

The Queensland Government has announced a $27.25 million package to provide immediate assistance to industry to help Queensland deal with the impact of the coronavirus COVID-19.

This World Wildlife Day, consider giving the gift of habitat to Aussie native wildlife.

In response to the effects of the Australian bushfires and the coronavirus on Queensland's tourism industry, TEQ has launched a $2 million campaign showcasing to Australians why Queensland is 'a beautiful place to holiday here this year', leveraging Tourism Australia's campaign launched in late January.

Over the past week, Destination Gold Coast has been strongly advocating for emergency funds at Local, State and Federal Government level to support Gold Coast’s tourism sector.

The devastating bushfires across Australia are a result of the conditions caused by extended drought and extremely dry hot weather. There has been a far bigger impact on the Australian native wildlife than ever imagined.

We need your help in finding out what is important to you and your business in the lead up to the Council and State Elections. Fill in this short survey to go in the running to win a $250 gift card.

In late 2019, a Christmas Eve-part day public holiday was rushed through Queensland’s last sitting of parliament and was imposed on businesses weeks later. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) had sought feedback from the small business community and advised the government on the negative impact this would have on businesses across the state.

The Star Gold Coast’s inaugural charity fundraiser lunch, Help Yourself to Help Others, aimed at raising funds and awareness for three vital Gold Coast charities.

The Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce wants to know which issues are important to you and your business as we move towards the next Council and State elections, and a possible by-election in Currumbin in March.

City tourism leaders have warned the city’s tourism industry would also take a hit from the “double-whammy” of the bushfire disaster and Coronavirus outbreak.

It’s been another bumper year for tourism on the Gold Coast with Gold Coast Airport recording its busiest day of all time and busiest December ever.

Currumbin MP Jann Stuckey has announced she is resigning from parliament from the 1st of February, saying she has been 'swamped' by the 'black cloud' of depression after being 'ridiculed and abused'.

Tweed Sand Bypassing is a joint initiative of the New South Wales and Queensland State Governments. The project's objectives are to establish and maintain a safe, navigable entrance to the Tweed River and restore and maintain the coastal sand drift to the beaches on the southern Gold Coast of Queensland.

More good news for our local community organisations!

The Hon. Karen Andrews has announced that applications are now open for the very popular Volunteer Grants Program.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill. This will be the last one until after the March Council elections.

The Currumbin Beach Vikings is celebrating their 100th year by launching a full calendar of events for 2020.

Currumbin RSL said a fond farewell to Award Winning Alleys Restaurant in September 2019 as Stage 1A of their renovations commenced. After three months of anticipation, Stage 1A of the face-lift has been completed and Currumbin RSL are very excited to announce that they have a brand new, modern dining precinct.

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is facing a 20% increase in admissions related to the recent bush fires and drought conditions affecting much of Australia.

2019 was the busiest year on record at the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital. The total admissions for 2019 were 12,198, compared to 11,082 the previous year. The hospital located at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a National Trust property and is one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world with the mission to treat, rehabilitate and release native wildlife.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe & Happy New Year

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 13 Councillor Daphne McDonald.

The iconic Kirra Beach Hotel is set to shut its doors for more than two years while the site is redeveloped into a two-tower resort, rooftop bar and ground level retail laneway.

In a digital-first and experience-driven economy, social media is a key tool for showcasing your business.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, a National Trust property, is excited to introduce their newest addition, Wild Island Adventure Splash and Play Zone. The Wild Island precinct is surrounded by beautiful sub-tropical flora and fauna with sculptures of Australian wildlife and natural features.

A partnership between Gold Coast Airport, Queensland Government, Jetstar Airways and Destination Gold Coast have secured the first ever direct flight from the Gold Coast to Seoul. Celebrating the commencement of the route on the 9th of December 2019.

Southern Gold coast businesses want the trams to go to the border and warn Palm Beach must embrace light rail for its businesses to survive and secure the tourist dollar.

The state government made a major announcement that an additional 400,000 hectares of land is being preserved for koalas and wildlife plus an additional $50,000 for the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital. 🐨🐨🐨

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has capped off the year with a number of awards including the 2019 Tourism, Hospitality & Events award as part of the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards.

Find out about changes to the PAYG and deductions for payments to workers. Information about STP (single touch payroll) and superannuation guarantee along with many more tips and tricks. This advice has been provided from Crowley Calvert & Holmes Chartered Accountants, a Gold Member of the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

National Trust of Queensland Queensland CEO, Jonathan Fisher, has been appointed to the Board of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) at their Annual General Meeting in October.

The first look at the new Gold Coast Airport terminal has been revealed, with construction now underway on the southern terminal expansion.

Business conditions in Queensland have hit ‘rock bottom’ according to the latest Suncorp-CCIQ Business Pulse Survey, where the September quarter revealed that local economic conditions for small and medium enterprises are the worst on record with the confidence index falling to 36.4 points below the indication of optimism of 50 points.

Read up on the latest works and events happening in Palm Beach from Division 13 Councillor Daphne McDonald.

Provides schools and pre-schools, places of religious worship, community organisations and local councils with grants of up to $1 million for crime prevention initiatives aimed at reducing crime, violence, anti-social behaviour and/or other security risks driven by racial and/or religious intolerance.

It was a pleasure to present the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital with a cheque yesterday for $343, which was collected from the raffle at the Chambers recent After Dark Function at Currumbin Vikings. We were even lucky enough to see little Poco who was visiting for a bandage change!

Many employers will be looking at closing down their businesses over the Christmas and New Year period so they can have a well-deserved break.

Residual funding is available to support the development of female leaders in Queensland. The initiative is providing women with grants of between $2,000 and $7,000 to enable participation in one of three programs.

The City of Gold Coast has opened consultation on amendments to the City Plan. Southern Gold Coast locals are urged to view the proposed changes and have your say on shaping our unique part of the City so that our region continues to grow in line with the expectations of local residents, visitors and businesses.

Connecting Southern Gold Coast CEO Josh Martin joined other Southern Gold Coast business leaders last month at a development workshop facilitated by the Southern Cross University School of Business and Tourism for academic staff to hear directly from industry about the capabilities graduates needs to succeed in their careers.

Beach Volleyball is set to reappear on Coolangatta Beach in an exciting new partnership between Volleyball Australia, Tourism Events Queensland and the City of Gold Coast - further cementing Coolangatta as a major events destination for the city.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

Read up on the latest works and events happening in Palm Beach from Division 13 Councillor Daphne McDonald.

How is red tape holding your business back? If Queensland is going to be the best state in Australia to do business in, the State Government needs to cut the costs of red tape for small and medium sized businesses.

End of year funding grants are currently available to women in QLD to support their participation in a professional development program.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

To assist small businesses with planning applications for grant rounds, the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training has released a grants schedule for 2019–20.

The two-day SandTunes Music Festival previously slated for Coolangatta Beach later this year has been moved to Metricon Stadium in Carrara following talks between the State Government and the promoter, TEG Dainty.

Surf Life Saving Australia has announced a new event is coming to Coolangatta and Kirra Beach during the Coolangatta Gold in October. Beach Warrior is an obstacle course featuring 25 challenges over a 4km course open to everyone aged 12 and over.

Australia's favourite annual nostalgia festival, Cooly Rocks On, celebrated record growth in 2019, with Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister, Kate Jones, releasing the official festival statistics with Connecting Southern Gold Coast CEO, Josh Martin, last week.

The Southern Gold Coast is gearing up for a huge season of major events hitting our region this spring, playing host to artists, musicians and elite athletes with events that celebrate our destination, our culture and this spectacular time of year.

Karen Andrews MP wants to encourage local community groups to take advantage of Round 5 of the very successful Stronger Communities Programme.

The results of the Suncorp CCIQ Pulse Survey of Business Conditions for the June Quarter show that business conditions in Queensland remain subdued due to soft operating conditions in the state.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

The Business Growth Fund is now open for applications.

Funding of up to $50,000 (excluding GST) may be provided for eligible business to purchase and implement highly specialised equipment to enable them to move to the next stage of growth.

Two adventurers took on the ultimate outdoor challenge in July, walking the 10 Great Walks of Queensland in just 10 days for the National Trust Q10 Challenge.

Cooly Rocks On is calling all artists Australia wide to be part of our rockin’ lineup at next year's festival – celebrating the 10th anniversary of Cooly Rocks On.

Next year’s Global Wave Conference has been given a huge international boost with the addition of Mark Taylor the Ocean X Submarine Man for David Attenborough’s Blue Ocean documentary series.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

New recovery grants are now available to help small businesses across North and North West Queensland rebuild after the monsoon trough flooding earlier this year.

The Small Business Artisan Producer Grants Program will provide assistance to artisan producers of gourmet food (including non-alcoholic beverages) to help them grow their businesses, access new market opportunities and enhance their gourmet food expertise.

Local businesses in Coolangatta and surrounds are invited to have their say on their experience during Cooly Rocks On 2019.

This report focuses on the impact of the highly anticipated Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast business community and the broader regional business environment.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

Celebrating cars and culture from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, Cooly Rocks On, June 5 to 9, took over the streets of Coolangatta with record crowds estimated at over 120,000 attending the retro festival over the five days.

The village of Tugun on the Southern Gold Coast has shown a new side this week – not only to its community but to a building in the village.

Local businesses are encouraged to apply for the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards, the region's leading honours for business achievements.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has partnered with TOMRA, one of the network operators for the Containers for Change deposit scheme to install Queensland’s very first commercial container refund scheme reverse vending machine.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

It is intended that the SandTunes music festival showcase the beauty of the iconic Coolangatta beach to the world and deliver significant economic benefit to the southern Gold Coast. The feel of the festival is to be a "sand under foot" experience and will be designed to deliver an easy going beach side event.

This month we have an update from CEO Anne Stovin on what's happening at Currumbin RSL and other related businesses.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

After a busy year of fundraising activities, the Currumbin RSL Women’s Auxiliary has made a record donation to the Veterans Support Centre.

Jetstar will commence a three times-weekly service from Gold Coast Airport to Seoul by the end of the year – delivering 52,000 additional visitor seats to the region annually.

Thank you to all sponsors who donated prizes and members purchased tickets at our end of year evening. We were able to raise $1,380 for Drought Angels.

Gold Coast Airport has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability, achieving Level 2 accreditation under the Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program.

Community members looking for affordable Exercise Physiology and Osteopathy treatments can now book appointments at Southern Cross University Health Clinic in Bilinga.

Read up on the latest works and events happening on the Southern Gold Coast from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill.

Help contribute to the way GC City Council deliver the Ocean Beaches Strategy by having a say on how our beaches are managed.

The Place Based Master Plan aims to improve the public space and enhance the lifestyle of residents.

You could win $500 worth of tools from Best Buy Power Tools on Currumbin Creek Road.

The Southport Spit draft master plan has now been released.

Do you know a community group with a great project idea that will make a positive difference in your local area? This year as part of ETC’s 30th birthday celebrations they are delighted to be in a position to increase the ETC Community Support Fund funding pool to $300,000!