Council Update: What's Happening in Our Backyard

The festive season is here, and in Division 13, our public spaces have been transformed with pre-decorated garlands and illuminated trees, creating a vibrant backdrop for economic activity during this busy time of year. Lifestyle is at the heart of the southern Gold Coast, and that’s what makes this area truly special. I’m excited to share updates on recent project completions and those in the pipeline, all of which are enhancing the active, healthy lifestyles embraced by southern Gold Coasters.

After two years of construction, the southern Gold Coast’s largest community facility was officially unveiled on 28 October, following an $87.5 million refurbishment to meet the demands of one of the city’s fastest-growing regions. The revamped Palm Beach Aquatic & Community Centre features four swimming pools offering programs for all ages and fitness levels. The facility also includes a children’s water play area, a café, a crèche, and a first-class gym. The attached state-of-the-art community centre offers a multipurpose hall, meeting rooms, activity rooms, and a dance studio, all available for hire daily. There is also a kitchen available for hire in conjunction with an event space, making it an ideal location to host your next business meeting or event. For more information and to book a space, visit the Palm Beach Community Centre webpage. With an expected 600,000 visitors in its first year, the centre will be a fantastic lifestyle destination for the area and will serve the community for generations to come.

The recent enhancements at Wonga Park in Burleigh Heads have made it more enjoyable for all visitors. Upgrades include new footpaths, a concrete pump track, refreshed fitness equipment, and a renovated basketball court. A new fenced off-leash dog exercise area and extra seating improve comfort and accessibility for both residents and their pets. Additionally, nearly 4,000 trees have been planted as part of the Burleigh to Springbrook Critical Nature Corridor, including 1,939 koala habitat trees, in line with the City's Natural City Strategy 2032 goals. In early 2025, Elanora’s Bill Thompson Park will undergo upgrades, including a resurfaced basketball court, footpaths, and a new BBQ area with seating, making it a more inviting space for family and community gatherings. Additionally, Rockview Public Park will receive three new fitness stations as part of the 2024/25 Fitness Equipment Asset Renewal Program. Three new multi-use workout stations will replace the existing aging equipment. These stations will offer a range of fitness options, including a full-body workout zone, a calisthenics zone, and a cardio zone, encouraging active, outdoor living for all fitness levels.

For the past five weeks, Memorial Park in Burleigh Heads has hosted Burleigh Sunday Sounds, offering free live music for the community while supporting local businesses. As the series wraps up, I’d like to thank our talented local musicians and everyone who came out and made the event a success. It’s been a memorable run, and I hope to see you all again next year at a Division 13 community event.

Finally, as we close out the year, I’d like to extend my best wishes to all southern Gold Coast residents, businesses, and visitors for a joyful holiday season. I’m looking forward to working with the business community on the economic opportunities that 2025 will bring to the southern Gold Coast.

Councillor Josh Martin

Division 13, City of Gold Coast