Soheil Abedian: Leading Gold Coast developer awarded keys to the city by council

One of Australia’s most respected developers has been lauded as “exemplifying the Gold Coast’s spirit” as he was given the city’s highest honour. READ THE FULL REPORT

One of Australia’s most respected developers has been lauded as “exemplifying the Gold Coast’s spirit” as he was given the city’s highest honour.

Sunland founder and chairman Soheil Abedian has been awarded the keys to the city by Mayor Tom Tate in recognition of his “unquestionable commitment to education and positive social change”.

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Sunland chairman Soheil Abedian received the keys to the city from Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate

Mr Abedian, the man behind the iconic Q1 supertower and Palazzo Versace hotel said he was overwhelmed by the moment.

“It is truly humbling as an immigrant. I came here in 1980 as a tourist with my family and had no idea that the Gold Coast even existed,” he said.

“What this proves is that anyone, no matter where they come from, their origins, religion or nationally can always serve others with dignity and love.

“I and my family are honoured that the council has bestowed this recognition.”

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Cr Tate praised the Sunland founder.

Mr Abedian received the award from Mayor Tom Tate on Saturday afternoon in a private ceremony at Robina’s Cbus Stadium.

The presentation came 10 months after it was announced he would receive the award, with the COVID-19 crisis forcing an extended delay.

Cr Tate praised the developer for his decades of philanthropic work.

“Soheil exemplifies the Gold Coast have-a-go spirit, but always with a focus of making our city better for everyone,” he said.

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The Abedian family celebrating at the Saturday ceremony.

“His philanthropy in providing infrastructure, technology and scholarship support at both Griffith and Bond universities has seen hundreds of students who might not have had the opportunity, benefit from a university education.

“His support of dozens of other charities should also be applauded.”

Mr Abedian founded Sunland Group in 1983 and has built many of the Gold Coast’s most notable developments.

Currently under construction is its 272 Hedges Ave luxury tower and the $1.3 billion The Lanes mini-city.

Mr Abedian also famously played a key role in tennis star Samantha Stosur’s life, funding construction of the tennis court she honed her skills on as a teenager.