Meet the Candidate - Gail O'Neill

It has been my privilege and pleasure to serve as Councillor in Division 14 for the past four years. During this time I have held the position of Deputy Chair of Economic Development, Deputy Chair of Community & Lifestyle and for an interim period, Deputy Chair of Economy, Planning & Environment. I currently also serve on Events, Tourism & Governance Committee.

Since 2016 I have worked and fought hard to deliver my election promises, the completion of the Tugun to Bilinga Oceanway being one of the most important. This is now a valuable piece of infrastructure that has seen immense benefits to residents and visitors to our City.

Another initiative that I have been able to bring to fruition is to create a Masterplan for Coolangatta & Kirra Business Districts. This Masterplan has recently been endorsed by City of Gold Coast Council with its main objectives being to improve the street environment and public spaces of these centres through good urban and architectural design with an emphasis on ensuring a safe precinct through better lighting and pedestrian access.

I have worked closely with State Government and police on problems that concern us all: homelessness, hooning and speeding. have assisted with strategic positioning of Council ‘Smiley Faces’ and CCTV units in hot spots.

I have initiated upgrades to many deteriorating roads and footpaths, parks, playground and foreshore facilities.

I have continued support and funding for important events for Southern Gold Coast - Cooly Rocks On, Tugun Lights Up, Swell Sculpture Festival, Buskers by the Creek, Coolangatta Xmas Carols & NYE Fireworks. will always support and encourage sporting, art and appropriate music events in division 14 as I believe this does benefit our local businesses.

Additionally I have initiated new events and funded these through Division 14 budget - Seaside Sounds,Kirra, Currumbin Community Xmas Carols, Shout Out Youth Event during Queensland Youth week and Movies under the Stars.

Some of the goals I have set for the next four years if I am re-elected as your Councillor:

• My number 1 has not changed: protection of Southern Gold Coast’s natural assets, beaches, waterways, foreshores & hinterland.
• City Planning: I would like to see further amendments to our City Plan that address achieving that most important balance between progress and lifestyle. We do have to plan for population growth but not at the expense of lifestyle. I do not support any urbanisation of our rural communities of Currumbin & Tallebudgera Valleys.
• I will vote for rates being kept at or below cpi increase
• I will continue to support Light Rail being extended to Coolangatta via Gold Coast Airport and heavy rail being extended from Varsity to Gold Coast Airport
• I will continue to build on the already strong relationships I now have with my residential and business communities
• I will continue to work closely and conscientiously with State & Federal Member of Parliament on local issues.

I still have the passion and energy that it takes to represent this Community I love. I am now an experienced and knowledgeable representative who would like to continue to serve Division 14.