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The Gold Coast Directory introduced this blog to provide a platform for Gold Coast businesses to update the local business community with recent industry developments, networking events, company achievements and the latest about doing business on the Gold Coast.

If you have any news, press releases or business events on the Gold Coast that you want to tell the community about,
we'd love to help! Please email your article or news to [email protected] with the subject line “Attn: Gold Coast Industry News”.

Boost for Regional Queensland

Posted on November 30, 2012 by admin

Regional events across the State have received a $1.4 million boost under the latest round of the Events Queensland Regional Development Program (EQRDP).

Events Queensland has created the most comprehensive portfolio of supported events of any state in Australia with more than $21 million invested through the EQRDP across 976 events since 2001.

The next EQRDP funding round closes 15 February 2013 for events held between 1 October 2013 and 31 March 2015.

Application guidelines and forms can be found at www.eventsqld.com.au

Posted in Events, Government, Tourism | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

DISCOVER DREAMWORLD HAPPINESS THIS SUMMER – NEW LANDS, NEW RIDES AND NEW ATTRACTIONS

Posted on November 23, 2012 by admin

Dreamworld and WhiteWater World are full of surprises this summer with a host of new attractions opening including the latest precinct from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc., Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness featuring Big 8 Thrill Ride, Pandamonium.  Plus Wiggles World’s new Big Red Boat Ride and the Big Brother House is open to guests.

Start your day in the ancient Chinese village that is Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness, opening in summer.  This land will be home to Big 8 Thrill Ride, Pandamonium, the new Skadoosh bumper car ride and the Kung Fu Academy, specially designed for junior masters in training.

When you arrive at Pandamonium, be sure to choose your queue line carefully because this swinging rickshaw ride is an adventure with a serious split personality.

Mini quest seekers can choose the ‘not-so crazy’ line to enjoy a rickshaw chase adventure. Spinning round and round, and swinging side to side you will need to harness your Kung Fu endurance for this ride even on its calm rotation.

Big 8 Thrill Ride enthusiasts will find happiness in the ‘seriously crazy’ line for a cycle that will send you round and round, side to side and upside down at up to 3.8 G-forces.  Soaring eight metres high under the watchful eyes of the mighty dragon, only martial arts masters will be able to outlast these 150 seconds of kung-furious pandemonium.

Visit the Skadoosh bumper cars to learn what it takes to drive a dragon before visiting the Kung Fu Academy where the kids can harness their martial arts skills.  Then gather the troops at the Furious Five Fountain or find Po, the Kung Fu Panda himself for a unique photo to remember your day.

For Wiggly fans, the ultimate place to be is Wiggles World, soon to be home of the brand new Big Red Boat Ride. Bobbing back and forward and twirling round and round, the Big Red Boat Ride is a smooth sailing sea-worthy adventure that will have kids laughing and squealing with delight.

Perfect for the whole family, mums and dads will enjoy this ride as much as the kids and it’s a great chance to make some life-long memories and enjoy some Dreamworld happiness together.

Big Brother fans can access the house to roam the rooms where the Housemates inhabited and see what it’s like on the other side of the cameras from Saturday 17 November.  Check out the Diary Room, swing by the bedroom and check out the entertainment areas in the backyard to experience a television set.

When school breaks this summer, teens can take the Big 8 Challenge.  From Friday 7 December there will be five weeks to complete eight challenges with awesome weekly prizes awarded to the most impressive online entries.  Complete all eight challenges for the chance to win a Big Brother House Party for the winner and 20 mates valued at over $7000.

World Pass holders can enjoy even more happiness at WhiteWater World with big thrills on slides The Wedgie and The Green Room, splashing fun in the Pipeline Plunge or simply chilling out in the Cave of Waves.  Littlies can learn to love the water at WhiteWater World’s Wiggle Bay.  Complete with wading pools, splashing buckets and mini slides, it is a fun and safe place to let the kids play.

Summer nights are bound to swelter this January, so grab the swimmers and some mates and head to Night WhiteWater World held every Friday night in January.  Starting at 6.30pm the park you love so much during the day, is a whole new experience at night.  Imagine plunging down The Wedgie, dropping into the Green Room in the dark or chillaxing in the Cave of Waves as you star gaze.

Night WhiteWater World events will be held on the 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th of January and tickets are just $25 per person or get together with four of your mates and save with tickets just $20 each.

Visitors to the Gold Coast can make the most of their holidays with a Holiday World Pass.  For only $79.99 for children and $99.99 for adults, the Holiday World Pass allows the bearer 3 weeks unlimited access to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World.

Posted in Kids & Teens, Theme Parks, Tourism | Leave a comment

Why not make a night of it?

Posted on November 22, 2012 by admin

If you are planning to see Reece Mastin or Celtic Thunder in January 2013, the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre have got a special accommodation offer for you!

Relax, refresh and rejuvenate with one of the Jupiters Hotel and Casino packages that let you to enjoy your show with the added convenience of staying overnight in one of the best hotels on the Gold Coast.

The Stay & See offers below are room only and ideal if you are travelling to the Gold Coast to see a show!

  • $199* Overnight accommodation in a Superior Room (twin share).
  • $239* Overnight accommodation in Superior Room & Buffet Breakfast in Food Fantasy (twin share).

*Price does not include show tickets.

To Book – call reservations on 1800 074 344 and quote the relevant code below (subject to availability).

  • For Reece Mastin on 13th January 2013, quote: MASTIN
  • For Celtic Thunder on 27th January 2013, quote: THUNDER
Posted in Art, Events, Music, Tourism | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

BOATIES GET IN EARLY FOR TICKETS TO 25th ANNIVERSARY SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

Posted on November 21, 2012 by admin

EXCITEMENT is building among boating enthusiasts with tickets to the 25th anniversary Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) set to go on sale next week.

Presale tickets to SCIBS 2013 will go on sale online to subscribers on Monday November 26 at 9am, with the public release to go on sale 9am Friday, November 30.

Running from May 23 to 26, next year’s event will showcase a raft of international boating brands, products and technologies on display alongside the superb backdrop of the award-winning Sanctuary Cove marina and The Marine Village.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove sales, sponsorship and events manager Johan Hasser said the SCIBS team were planning a bumper Boat Show for SCIBS’ 25th anniversary, with crowd numbers expected to exceed the 37,000 visitors that attended in 2012.

Mr Hasser said many of the big names in boating had already secured space at next year’s show, with some even looking to book bigger exhibition space in order to bring larger displays and more products to showcase.

“We’ve had plenty of feedback from returning exhibitors who are looking at taking more space next year, to be able to showcase a greater selection of their products so it looks like we will have lots for visitors to look forward to,” said Mr Hasser.

“We’re also including more family-friendly and female-orientated activities to the 25th anniversary show so there’s something for mums and for the kids.”

SCIBS has positioned itself over the years as Australia’s foremost marine trade display, which gives the community, boating enthusiasts and marine industry representatives the rare opportunity to network and view the latest and greatest boating and marine products on offer.

In 2013 SCIBS will showcase some of the world’s most prestigious and innovative boats and marine brands, as well as an incredible array of kayaks, stand up paddle boards, jet skis and wakeboards, the greenest and leanest engines on the market, safety equipment, performance and lifestyle apparel, books, charts and navigational equipment, plus high quality gadgets and covetable nautical timepieces.

Offering something for the whole family, SCIBS will also feature a full program of live entertainment, fashion parades, cooking demonstrations, seminars and safety talks as well as a fantastic kids marine program and Women on Water program throughout the four day event.

Early bird prices will be available for purchase throughout December and January, with 1 Day Adult passes available from $19 and 1 Day Concession passes from $15. Discounts are also available for groups of 10 or more. Children under the age of 18 are free with a paying adult (up to four children, per paying adult).

Holiday packages will be available from Cove Travel as of December 2.

Tickets are available online from Ticketmaster. Visit www.ticketmaster.com.au

For more information on SCIBS, visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community.

Featuring two 18 hole championship golf courses, a 300 berth marina, five-star InterContinental Hotel, Country Club including full fitness centre, tennis courts and 25m swimming pool, Sanctuary Cove is also home to some of the most diverse waterfront, golf course fronting or hilltop residential house and land options on the Gold Coast.

At the heart of the community is the Marine Village – Sanctuary Cove’s very own waterfront commercial, retail and dining precinct, with more than 80 tenancies.

Sanctuary Cove was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD is an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian listed Mulpha International BHD.

Posted in Boating, Events, Marketing, Tourism | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

25th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Open to Exhibitors

Posted on November 5, 2012 by admin

THE 2013 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) is now open to exhibitors following the official prospectus released to industry on November 1.

With 2013 marking the annual event’s 25th anniversary, next year’s bumper Boat Show will take place at the award-winning Gold Coast resort-style community from Thursday May 23 to Sunday May 26, with a long list of returning and new exhibitors expected from across Australia and overseas.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove general manager of marketing and events, Sue Thomson, said the team was receiving lots of interest from exhibitors prior to applications opening.

“SCIBS has long been regarded in the industry as a must-do event,” said Ms Thomson.

“Last year we had more than 320 exhibitors showcasing and I believe this year we will go above and beyond that, particularly given we’re celebrating Boat Show’s quarter century.

“We have a range of spaces available that can cater to both small and large scale exhibitors so we expect to have a broad cross-section of the boating industry at the 2013 show.”

Sanctuary Cove executive general manager Keith Allardice said the 2013 show would see the SCIBS team take on a more interactive role with exhibitors, working closely to ensure returning exhibitors’ needs were catered to, and new participants were welcomed with open arms.

Mr Allardice said the appointment of new sales, sponsorship and events manager for SCIBS, Johan Hasser, was crucial to achieving this goal.

“The event is entering a milestone year and we are thrilled to have Johan aboard to help us ensure it is an innovative and rewarding show for all concerned,” he said.

With 15 years experience in sales, marketing and event communications, Mr Hasser said he was excited to be on board for what is shaping up to be a big event in 2013.

“We are already receiving positive feedback from exhibitors regarding the plans for next year’s show, with many returning companies looking to take even more space than last year,” said Mr Hasser.

“Being the show’s 25th anniversary, we are looking forward to putting on something truly special, for both exhibitors and visitors to enjoy and we are keen to excite the next generation of boating enthusiasts by attracting more families along to next year’s show.”

SCIBS has positioned itself over the years as Australia’s foremost marine trade display, which gives the community, boating enthusiasts and marine industry representatives the rare opportunity to network and view the latest and greatest boating and marine products on offer.

Boating brands, products and services will be on display in the Sanctuary Cove marina, throughout the pavilions and in Sanctuary Cove’s Marine Village during the four day event.

A raft of initiatives and attractions will be added to the program to celebrate the 25th anniversary for both visitors and exhibitors, making next year’s show the “must attend” event on the Asia-Pacific boating community calendar.

Tickets and holiday packages for SCIBS 2013 will go on sale online to the public late November. The official SCIBS 2013 Prospectus is now available. For more information on exhibiting, visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community.

Featuring two 18 hole championship golf courses, a 300 berth marina, five-star InterContinental Hotel, Country Club including full fitness centre, tennis courts and 25m swimming pool, Sanctuary Cove is also home to some of the most diverse waterfront, golf course fronting or hilltop residential house and land options on the Gold Coast.

At the heart of the community is the Marine Village – Sanctuary Cove’s very own waterfront commercial, retail and dining precinct, with more than 80 tenancies.

Sanctuary Cove was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD is an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian listed Mulpha International BHD.

Mulpha continues to reinvest in the multi award-winning Sanctuary Cove, ensuring it maintains its enviable reputation of a world-class community with unparalleled lifestyle options.

Posted in Boating, Events, Marketing | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Broadwater Marine Project announced

Posted on November 2, 2012 by admin

The State Government and Gold Coast City Council have announced that they will invite the private sector to tender for what could be the largest piece of integrated tourism infrastructure in Queensland’s history.

The Broadwater Marine Project will include the delivery of a Cruise Ship Terminal on State Government-owned land on the Spit or in the Broadwater.

In addition to the terminal, when completed, the multi-billion dollar integrated tourism facility could include hotels, a casino, super yacht facility, retail development, restaurants, entertainment and hospitality venues, commercial and residential development, significant open community space and recreation facilities.

According to recent research prepared by tourism consultancy firm EC3 Global, it is estimated that world-class integrated tourism developments have the potential to inject $750 million in additional tourism revenue annually into the Gold Coast economy and create more than 10,000 jobs locally by 2020.

The Broadwater Marine Project delivers on Mayor Tom Tate’s commitment to build a Cruise Ship Terminal for the city.

“I am delighted that we can work with the State to make a long talked about dream of a cruise ship terminal for our city a reality,” said Mayor Tate.

“This will mean a significant boost for our local economy, more local jobs and a long-lasting piece of tourism infrastructure for the Gold Coast.”

The Council and State are inviting major national and international consortia to submit their ideas and designs to transform the city’s Broadwater into a globally-acclaimed marine gateway that will ultimately boost tourism, business and the area’s recreational appeal.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate says the city will seek visionary Expressions of Interest that will set an outstanding benchmark by creating the most impressive project the city and Queensland has ever seen.

“We will seek an impressive, one-of-a-kind draw-card that will define our city and transform us into a truly global destination,” Mayor Tate said.

“We want to see an integrated attraction that will be globally renowned. We are Australia’s premier tourism, business and events destination.”

“In fact, as host of one of the world’s greatest sporting events in 2018 – the Commonwealth Games – we will showcase our vibrant city and citizens across the globe.”

“We deserve the best, which is why we are calling for consortia from around the world with the flair, courage and commitment to be part of our city’s exciting future.”

Mayor Tate said he was very encouraged by the State Government’s support for the delivery of a major project on State-owned land on the Broadwater, including the Spit and Wave Break Island.

“The timing is ideal. It will encourage multi-billion dollar investment in our city.”

“The message we are getting from high-level tourism operators and local business is ‘build something new and spectacular and they will come’,” he said.

“Right now, our city is crying out for a boost in tourists.”

“We look forward to seeing the ideas,” he said at the announcement today.

“This is not just about a cruise ship terminal. This is about creating an international wow factor for tourists and the local community.”

Mayor Tate said Council would continue to meet with community and marine-based stakeholders to outline the project and provide detailed information.

“We will continue to work with the community, tourism, surfing and environmental stakeholders throughout the project,” said Mayor Tate.

“This is the opportunity to transform currently unused land into a one-of-a-kind marine-based hub in the heart of Australia’s leading tourist destination. My promise to the people of the Gold Coast is to boost the economy through tourism and jobs. Together we can achieve this and create something special for our city.”

Posted in Tourism, Transport & Infrastructure | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Broadwater Parklands gets wi-fi

Posted on November 2, 2012 by admin

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.

Posted in Internet/Web, Technology | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Paws up for Dog’s Day Out

Posted on November 2, 2012 by admin

The local canine community is giving the inaugural Dog’s Day Out the paws up.

Central Park at Pacific Pines will be a doggy haven on Saturday, 10 November from 1pm until 5pm, as dogs of all shapes and sizes frock up for the best dressed dog competition and owner look-a-like competition. There will also be prizes for the waggiest tail and best trick.

The event will also celebrate the announcement of a new off-leash dog exercise area at Flooded Gum Park in Pacific Pines.

Area councillor Tracey Gilmore said the new off-leash dog exercise area was aimed at encouraging owners to get out and get active with their pets.

“The fenced off-leash area provides an outlet where dogs can run, exercise and socialise with other dogs,” said Cr Gilmore.

“We encourage the community to share our love of man’s best friend and come along on Saturday to celebrate the inaugural Dog’s Day Out and our new off-leash dog exercise area.

“We will have a host of guest speakers, children’s activities including jumping castle and face painting, raffles, food and drink stalls, dog parades and plenty more to keep dog lovers and their pooches entertained,” said Cr Gilmore.

“The inaugural Dog’s Day Out is the brainchild of the Pacific Pines Residents Group who saw the need to increase knowledge of dog care and the responsibilities of dog ownership.

“Dog’s Day Out is designed to bring people together around their interest in their dogs. It is a great way to meet new friends and increase social connections, which is important for community well-being.”

There will be a trial dog agility course and people can learn the basics of dog obedience. The Pacific Pines Football Club will provide a range of hot food and dog themed treats and sweets.

The Dog’s Day Out will be held on Saturday, 10 November from 1pm until 5pm at Central Park, Pacific Pines and is supported by the Animal Welfare League, Pet Stock, and the Pacific Pines Residents Group. Dogs are to be kept on a lead and in control at all times.

Posted in Events, Sport | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Executive Joins Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Crew

Posted on November 2, 2012 by admin

MULPHA Sanctuary Cove has appointed its first Sales, Sponsorship and Event Manager to help steer the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show as it enters its landmark 25th year.

Marketing and communications executive Johan Hasser has taken on the demanding role which will see him become the face of the annual four-day show for the marine industry.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove executive general manager Keith Allardice said Mr Hasser would be the interface between the 2013 event and its exhibitors and sponsors.

“This new role has evolved from the massive growth of the show in size and popularity since its launch in 1987,” he said.

“The event is entering a milestone year and we are thrilled to have Johan  on board to help us ensure it is an innovative and rewarding show for all concerned.”

Mr Hasser has 15 years’ experience in sales, marketing and communication including a stint with International Management Group as an event and marketing coordinator at the Indy 300 in 2007 and 2008.

Before joining Mulpha Sanctuary Cove, Mr Hasser was a sales and marketing executive for Sydney-based golfing industry retailer Golf Sport Australia from 2009 to 2012.

Mr Hasser, who sailed as a child, said he was looking forward to making the 2013 show the biggest and best in the event’s history while also broadening its appeal to women and families.

“We will have dedicated programs for women and plenty of fun events for the children,” he said.

“The aim is to have a vibrant and interesting event that offers something for everyone.

Mr Hasser will work with Mulpha Sanctuary Cove’s General Manager of Marketing and Events Sue Thomson.

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is one of the longest running and largest events on the Gold Coast.

It consistently attracts hundreds of exhibitors and tens of thousands of visitors.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove plans to build on rising interest in the event with the 2012 show recording a crowd of more than 37,000 over four days – an increase on the previous year.

Sanctuary Cove is a resort-style master planned community, featuring two 18 hole championship golf courses, a 300 berth marina, 5-star luxury hotel and Country Club including full fitness centre, tennis courts and 25m swimming pool.

At the heart of the community is the Marine Village – Sanctuary Cove’s very own waterfront commercial, retail and dining precinct, with more than 80 tenancies.

Mulpha continues to reinvest in the multi award-winning community, ensuring it maintains its enviable reputation of a world-class community with unparalleled lifestyle options.

Posted in Boating, Events | Leave a comment

File Flinging at Ikcon Office Furniture & Fitout for National Recycling Week

Posted on November 2, 2012 by admin

Ikcon Office Furniture & Fitout is joining thousands of people in workplaces across Australia to celebrate National Recycling Week (November 12 – 18) by participating in Planet Ark’s Friday File Fling.

The Friday File Fling encourages workplaces to put time aside on the Friday of National Recycling Week (Friday 16 November) for staff to sort through filing cabinets and desk drawers and recycle redundant paperwork and old documents. Only about 1 in every 10 sheets of office paper gets recycled – much of it ends up ‘stored’ in files that will never be read again.

“Tonnes of high-quality office paper are currently stored away in the unused files of Australian workplaces, just waiting to be recycled,” says Planet Ark’s Manager of Recycling Programs, Janet Sparrow. “By hosting a Fling you can de-clutter your office and help get that paper back into circulation. In their first Fling Colonial First State almost tripled the amount of paper it normally recycled.”

“Single-sided paper can be re-used for note paper,” says Sparrow. “Confidential files should be recycled through secure destruction and recycling services. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with your supervisor.”

“At Ikcon, we are very focussed on protecting the environment for future generations.  We have obtained our Gold Certification through GreenBizCheck and are in the process of preparing for our audits to add the highly respected ISO14001 to our mantle” says Vanessa Zeeman, Director. “It is becoming increasingly important for corporates to demonstrate their commitment to environmental protection and we are greatly in favour of initiatives such as the Friday File Fling”.

Workplaces can register their Fling at RecyclingWeek.PlanetArk.org, where a number of adaptable resources (such as a coversheet for new notepads) and a step-by-step guide are available for download.

For more information about National Recycling Week, go to RecyclingWeek.PlanetArk.org or call the National Recycling Hotline on 1300 733 712.

National Recycling Week is kindly supported by Major Sponsor Tetra Pak and Supporting Sponsors The Aluminium Can Group, Century Yuasa, the Australian Packaging Covenant and ‘Cartridges 4 Planet Ark’.

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