Outrage at tram forum charge

GOLD Coast residents seeking to learn more about the extension of the light rail were furious they were asked to pay $25 a head to attend a forum that featured a government department figure.

The International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) this week hosted “Light Rail – The catalyst for change on the Gold Coast” at Burleigh Heads Surf Club. Anna Cush, an employee with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, was the main speaker.

Non-members paid $25 to take part in the communications industry event, where Ms Cush provided “insights on communicating and engaging with the distinct and diverse communities on the Gold Coast and how the light rail is contributing to its future”.

The move has been heavily criticised by a number of residents, who say engagement with government officials on ongoing infrastructure matters should not be commercialised.

Tallebudgera Valley’s Nicolle Archer was disappointed the State Government could take part in events on the light rail privately but had not engaged with the community directly since last year.

“The cover charge was a bit of a joke considering the consultation process hasn’t taken place since last year,” she said.

“I don’t understand why public servants are speaking at private venues ... when the State Government is still waiting on funding.”

Ms Archer was so incensed she began a GoFundMe page to cover entry costs for other members of the public.

“I did it to be a bit cheeky. I wanted to make sure everyone had the opportunity to hear what those behind the project had to say,” she said.

Karen Rowles, a Palm Beach resident and long-time campaigner against the light rail, said having to pay to listen to a government employee was “ridiculous”.

A spokesperson for Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the forum was a private-sector industry event and the State Government “did not fund the event in any way”.

He said the department had held a “number of community information and consultation sessions” for Stage 3A last year “at Burleigh Heads and Mermaid Beach following consultation by council in 2015 and 2017”, and the public could contact the department directly to provide feedback.

IAP2 is a member association that seeks to “promote and improve the practice of public participation and stakeholder engagement”. Townley Environment Services sponsored the event.