Community election forums to discuss cruise ship future as development looms as major Gold Coast election issue

THE controversial cruise ship development is set to surface as a key election issue with two major community forums being staged to question candidates.

Updated artists impressions of ASF consortiums plans for the Wavebreak Island cruiseship terminal - images supplied from Cox Rayner

THE controversial cruise ship development for the Broadwater is about to surface as a key election issue with two major community forums being staged to question political candidates.

A “Tell the Truth” forum is being staged tonight at Southport Community Hall by the Gold Coast and Hinterland Environment Council (Gecko) and Save Our Spit alliance.

Candidates from all political parties have been given a deadline of 5pm today to respond to an invitation to speak.

They will be asked to respond on their position on preserving parks and beaches and specifically on the future of the Spit and Wavebreak Island.

Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney in December told the Bulletin a decision on the $7.5-billion Wavebreak Island project planned by the ASF Consortium could take several years due to technical assessments.

Upcoming resident forums are expected to hear plenty of questions about the planned Wavebreak Island development, with the topic a key election issue.

Gecko president Lois Levy told the Bulletin: “Mr Seeney may think it is not an election issue but we can assure him it is. It is essential voters understand what is intended for the future of the Spit, Broadwater and Wavebreak Island in addition to other Gold Coast public, parks and waterways.”

Meanwhile, Surfers Paradise candidates can expect to be grilled on the cruise ship development at a “Meet the Candidates” breakfast tomorrow organised by the Main Beach Progress Association.

Candidates will also be asked about the Government’s body corporate law reforms and their position on the future of the Gold Coast 600.

Many residents oppose the motor race but the event enjoys strong support from small-business operators.

Organisers have invited MP John-Paul Langbroek, Labor’s Josh Blundell-Thornton, Palmer United Party’s Stephen Gardner, Family First’s Jonathon Scoones and Helen Hunt from the Greens.