October is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most exciting months of the year for the Southern Gold Coast, with two major sporting events set to attract thousands of competitors, spectators and visitors to our region.

The GC50 Run Festival returns to Coolangatta on 10-11 October, bringing more than 10,000 runners and an expected 15,000 spectators to our beautiful coastline. The event is expected to inject around $6 million into the local economy, providing a welcome boost for local accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, retailers and tourism operators. Thousands of visitors will experience everything our region has to offer while enjoying one of Australia’s premier running festivals. www.gc50runfestival.com.au

Just one week later, the legendary Coolangatta Gold takes centre stage from 17-18 October. Widely regarded as one of the toughest endurance events in surf sports, the event attracts elite athletes and community participants from across Australia to compete on our iconic beaches. The weekend features the challenging Coolangatta Gold 25.6, the Coolangatta Sprint, Youth Challenge and Coolangatta Dash, creating another opportunity to showcase the Southern Gold Coast on a national stage. https://sls.com.au/coolangattagold/

Events like these are much more than sporting competitions. They generate significant economic activity, support local businesses, create employment opportunities and reinforce the Southern Gold Coast’s reputation as a premier destination for lifestyle, tourism and major events. They also deliver something that cannot be measured in dollar terms alone, bringing our community together and creating a vibrant atmosphere that benefits everyone.

Beyond our busy events calendar, the Southern Gold Coast continues to attract significant investment, with a number of residential and commercial developments underway and more approved for construction in the years ahead.

While many local families and businesses continue to feel the impact of rising living costs and higher interest rates, it is encouraging to see ongoing confidence in our region’s future. Investment in housing, infrastructure and local business supports local jobs, strengthens the economy and helps ensure the Southern Gold Coast remains a great place to live, work, visit and do business.

The Southern Gold Coast has always been a place people aspire to call home, and while growth brings challenges, it also brings opportunities. Our priority must be ensuring that as our region continues to attract new residents and investment, we preserve the relaxed coastal lifestyle, community spirit and local character that make this part of the Gold Coast so unique.
By continuing to support local events, businesses and responsible investment, we can help ensure the Southern Gold Coast remains one of Queensland’s most dynamic and resilient communities.

Regards
Gail O’Neill Division 14 Councillor