Friday, 2 November 2012 2:00 AM
Log on, upload and skype for free at Broadwater Parklands – the first Gold Coast city park connecting the community to wi-fi.
“This is all about connecting people to places,’’ said Mayor Tom Tate.
“I know of families and visitors that spend hours at the Broadwater every weekend. By providing them with free wi-fi connectivity is just another service from Council. I applaud the co-sponsors who have come on board to support this initiative.’’
Divisional Councillor, Cr Dawn Crichlow, said the number of events at the parklands was growing.
“Apart from the Rockpools, the Pier and the enclosed swimming area, the parklands is hosting more and more events,’’ she said.
“Free wi-fi will definitely lure more visitors as it appears everyone needs to be connected 24/7 nowadays. And what better place to log on than under a shady tree at the Broadwater.
“Families will be able to capture photos of their children enjoying the Rockpools water playground and then instantly share the memories with family and friends through social media platforms, email or the internet.”
About 40,000 people visit the Broadwater Parklands every month to enjoy the three kilometres of parklands, playgrounds, swimming enclosure, cafes and Council lifeguard patrolled lagoon.
Wireless internet is available seven days a week from 7am to 9pm in December through to March, and from 7am until 7pm from April through to November.
Wi-fi coverage includes The Little Lawn, The Great Lawn, main car park, and the Rockpools. Sessions are 30 minutes or 50MB, with a 15-minute cooling off period.
Council has funded the wi-fi hardware with OnTheNet.Com.Au offering free access for two years.
To celebrate the launch of free wi-fi, Harvey Norman is giving away an iPad.
To enter visit www.gcparks.com.au.