Here are the alternative routes for Comm Games travel

HEADING to the Games this weekend? After the opening ceremony bus debacle, some public transport may not be your best bet for a trouble-free commute. Here are five options for getting to events.

IF you’re heading to the Games this weekend, the last thing you want is to be queuing for hours waiting for public transport.

The Commonwealth Games official site suggests public transport as the most reliable option but there may be some alternatives if you’re strapped for time.

Here are five alternative ways to try by pass the Games traffic this weekend.

1. Driving to a closer station and catching public transport.

If you’re travelling from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast public transport may not be your quickest option. With average journeys from Brisbane to the Gold Coast taking up to 2 hours, driving the bulk of the trip and parking at a close-by train station could shave up to half an hour off your trip. From there jump on the recommended train and shuttle options to complete the journey. Remember, it’s important to keep an eye on traffic and transport updates as these times may vary.

2. ‘Park n ride’ venues

Another option for driving closer to an event is parking your car at a designated park ‘n’ ride car park. Just plan your journey on the official site and select the driving option to see if parking is available. Keep in mind you’ll need to book your spot ahead of time and they’re filling up quickly!

How to guide for booking available here.

3. Riding your bicycle

This is a great alternative for travelling shorter distances. A 30-minute trip on your bicycle could be doubled if you’re stuck in your car on the road. There are a number of cycle parking locations if you have the option to ride in.

Full list here.

Broadbeach

-Neilsen Family Park, opposite Broadbeach Surf Life Saving Club

-Senior Citizens Centre, T E Peters Drive, Broadbeach Waters

-Road reserve opposite King-Tide Apartments on Broadbeach Boulevard

-Pratten Park between Charles Avenue and Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach

Carrara

-West of Nerang Broadbeach Road and Gold Coast Sports Centre

-South of the Birmingham Road and Nerang Broadbeach Road intersection

Coomera

-Eastern side of Dreamworld Parkway opposite White water Way

-Coomera Sports Park, east of AFL Oval

Oxenford

-South of Roadshow Way (Outback Spectacular access), east of shared path

Southport

-West of Broadwater swimming enclosures

-Cloyne Road Car Park, eastern section

-Northern section of Carey Park, northeast of Australia Fair

4. Get dropped off and walk to events

If you’re lucky enough to have friends or family drop you off then it’s probably best to take the offer. There are plenty of road closures so make sure to check the drop off and pick up zones here.

5. Last resort - Taxi or ride share

If it’s looking grim and traffic is backed up to the exit of the venue, catching a taxi to the closest train station may be your best option to escape the crowds.

Full list of taxi locations here.

Broadbeach

-Old Burleigh Rd, eastern side

-Broadbeach Blvd, eastern side

-Broadbeach Blvd, western side

Carrara

-Birmingham Rd, western side

-Broadbeach Rd

Coomera

-Dreamworld Parkway, western side

Southport

-Suter St, northern side

Good luck and have fun at the Commonwealth Games 2018!