Shock findings from survey into global tourism hub, second casino on the Gold Coast

A survey has revealed surprising findings when it comes to exactly what Gold Coast residents think of a global tourism hub and a second casino.

THE Gold Coast is split on whether it wants a global tourism hub.

However, it is adamant that a second casino should not be built on public land.

Recommendations from an exclusive report show the State Government needs to go back to the drawing board on how it can sell the next big thing for tourism on the Glitter Strip.

The report by the Global Tourism Hub (GTH) Advisory Panel shows 56 per cent of Gold Coast residents surveyed “strongly or somewhat support” a global tourism hub.

Only 13 per cent of those surveyed “strongly or somewhat oppose” a new integrated resort. They cited concerns of overdevelopment, dislike for a second casino, or did not believe the project stood out from what was available on the Glitter Strip.

Carey Park at Southport — possible site for GTH. Picture: Glenn Hampson.

Gold Coast Tourism Advisory Panel chair John Witheriff said the city needed new tourism investment to ensure the tourist capital kept up with demand.

“Our consultation shows very clearly – new infrastructure is crucial when it comes to growing the Gold Coast tourism industry in the future,” he said.

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“If the Gold Coast is to compete with the likes of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and even Cairns in years to come, private sector investment in tourism infrastructure like this will be very important.

“Locals are supportive. For the most part, they want to see more private sector investment in their city.”

John Witheriff — locals are supportive of new tourism infrastructure.

The panel concluded there was a “reasonably strong level of support” but that could be quickly eroded by outspoken residents, influential stakeholders and specific interest groups dominating the media debate.

Many of those opposed to a GTH said their opposition was due to the casino-resort likely to be built on public land such as Southport’s Carey Park, prompting the panel to advise the Government to ensure there would be no loss in taxpayer-owned land.

The panel also strongly supported the concerns of clubs that any additional gambling options would increase competition in a saturated market.

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“Unlike The Star (at Broadbeach) and hotels, clubs exist primarily to serve the community and the purpose for which they were created,” the panel’s report said.

“For this reason the panel strongly believes that clubs should have their concerns carefully considered and addressed in the event a GTH proceeds.”

The Government has vowed not to increase the number of electronic gaming machines if a GTH was approved.

But the panel urges other measures including no tax on gaming revenue for clubs for 18 months following the GTH’s opening, a tax rebate on contributions to the community and relaxation on current noise restrictions.

Minister for Innovation and the Tourism Industry Kate Jones — I will listen to locals. Picture Glenn Hampson.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones acknowledged both the support for a new integrated resort and concerns about use of public land.

“Locals expect that another operator would have to acquire their own site,” she said. “This report has followed months of thorough community consultation from John and the Gold Coast Tourism Advisory Panel. From day one, I’ve assured locals that I would listen to them – not dictate terms from Brisbane.

“Through this process, we’ve heard loud and clear that Gold Coasters want us to deliver new tourism infrastructure that creates jobs, so that’s what we’re doing.”