Business interest has Surfers flying
Variety of ventures lining up to inject new life into tourist hub
THE Gold Coast’s tourist hub Surfers Paradise is booming with new businesses starting at the rate of one new operation a week.
In eight months since the start of the year, almost 30 new ventures have opened. A bumper March resulted in 11 new operations starting.
The 29 new ones covered retail, bars, eateries and salons including racy Bikini Barbers.
Precinct marketing boss Mike Winlaw, CEO of Surfers Paradise Alliance, said SPA strongly supported new businesses in the precinct and aimed to support them with a
calendar of free, events.
A particular focus was events at off-peak times to attract visitation year-round.
“We are not only excited by the number of businesses that have chosen to call Surfers Paradise home during the past few months but the sheer variety,” he said.
“Some are targeted at those who like to party, others
familyfriendly
promise fun for the whole family and there are many who cater for all.
“The fact they can all thrive in one precinct is a testament to our ongoing efforts to showcase Surfers Paradise as a destination for all,” Mr Winlaw said.
Holey Moley Golf Club general manager Wayne Robson, who launched the karaoke, bar and mini-golf combo in March, said a recent spate of openings had created a buzz.
“The overall culture and vibe of Surfers has been steadily moving towards attracting all walks of life, crucial for a business such as ours.”
Mr Robson, whose Strike bowling bar has also called the precinct home for 11 years, added: “There is something for everyone and you can’t underestimate the importance of the free events SPA delivers. Knowing such a huge effort is made to counter quieter seasons made our decision to launch Holey Moley a whole lot easier.”
Blow Bar Lane owner Suzie Gryparis said demand forced her to hire 10 extra staff since opening the novel beauty salon and bar in May.
“When you think about our concept and Surfers, it is the perfect fit,” she said.
“I wouldn’t have gone anywhere else,” she said, adding she was excited about $3 million restaurant bar White Rhino opening nearby soon.
“There are more and more opening, a lot of little businesses. It is about time Surfers Paradise came back – it had a bad rap over the years.”
Sydney burger restaurant Milky Lane is another new Surfers Paradise offering and owner Oli Frost said: “In the few months we’ve been here, we’ve noticed the number of new openings which is a huge boost for us.”