Some hits and myths on a Gold Coast cruise terminal
READING through the texts (GCB 10/6) I came across three referring to a Gold Coast cruise ship terminal. As a former journalist I believe in freedom of speech, that said, it also allows me the right to challenge what I consider misconceptions.
Barney writes that it looks like the Gold Coast will be a day trip for Brisbane passengers. Looks can be deceiving. Day trips are generally conducted between 8 and 4, that’s peak hour. Passengers are unlikely to choose a destination more than 45 minutes away. Considering the distance from Luggage Point, the site of the new terminal, and the traffic conditions encountered on the outward and return trip to the Gold Coast on an unreliable M1, don’t expect too many visitors here. Those that do come will probably be frustrated with the traffic and limited time spent here. This is not the message our city wants to send out. In fact, it is damaging.
Jan comments that there are other cities better than the Gold Coast, we are not the best and that passengers sail past because there is more entertainment on the ship. Well Jan, I have travelled overseas as well. Part of that was an Alaskan cruise and I found it fascinating. Why? Because the environment was different and therefore interesting. Perhaps you could consider that those from Alaska or any other country may feel the same about us. I still think well of Alaska and Canada, but I love my home city, its diversity of interests and things to do beyond our fantastic beaches. What we spent ashore would astound you.
And finally, Barney. When Annastacia Palasczcuk decreed that there would be no development north of SeaWorld, she effectively excluded the only visible site for a land-based cruise ship base port. The Spit is central to our city and within the critical 45 minutes of our outlying nature-based tourist attractions, so everyone benefits. Our beaches are virtually only metres away. The offshore terminal was never first choice, it was forced upon us by the Premier’s caveat. As to infrastructure, there was a plan that came at no cost to the state, council or community but through various means of government intervention and with the support of minority groups. It was not only rejected but prevented from getting an official hearing.
Does the Gold Coast deserve a CST? You bet it does. I suggest we have more to offer recreational tourists than Brisbane where many of its population holiday here. I wonder how many Gold Coaster’s holiday in Brisbane? See Jan, we really do have something to offer.