A new year ahead

After the Summer break, Council is back full swing with the schedule of Committee meetings and Full Council meetings kicking off late January. It’s time to refocus on the big decisions ahead and pay attention to the small issues that arise as well. I’m aware how rushed February is for parents as children head back to school, knowing also how frustrating our roads become during this period. Please remain patient and kind to the other drivers when sharing the road.

We’ve seen an increase over the holiday period in graffiti vandalism at bus stops, bins, playgrounds, and on fences. It’s disappointing to see funds wasted repairing or replacing ratepayer funded infrastructure. The graffiti removals team is fast to respond so please contact me if you see issues nearby.

The Magic Millions Carnival enjoyed better weather this year. It’s the biggest annual event in our city, with a week of festivities including Polo and Show Jumping, the thunder of thoroughbred hooves on the beach, the yearling sales and incredible racing. We remain grateful to Katie Page Harvey, Gerry Harvey and the Board of the Gold Coast Turf Club for their support of the Magic Millions which injects tens of millions of dollars into our economy and creates hundreds of jobs for locals.

Christmas in Coomera review

After two years of adverse weather causing issues with the Coomera Christmas carols, a new two-day activation spread attendances, reducing congestion and enhancing the overall experience for all.

Approximately 3,000 attended across the two days in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Feedback has been positive, especially support for the wide range of activities and entertainment on offer. A review of this year’s event is underway, with consideration being given to a change in date to earlier in December and a possible shift to evenings to escape the heat and humidity.

I welcome your feedback and will keep you updated. Disappointment in the fireworks display has already been mentioned – but please keep me informed if you have a view so that I can meet with the City Events team to discuss suggested improvements for this year.

... and NYE Coomera

Entertainment, food trucks and another fireworks display were the highlight of the Coomera New Year’s Eve celebration which attracted approximately 7,000 people.

Traffic management planning will be given greater attention this year given the event’s popularity. We will continue to build on park ‘n ride opportunities and examine entry/exit points to improve access and relieve congestion.

Residential bin collection

A missed bin collection is a major source of frustration. A bin can be missed due to issues with placement, timing, or weight restrictions which prevent the automated truck arms from lifting the bin. If your bin is missed, please email division3@goldcoast.qld.gov.au or phone 5581 6598.

Where to put your bins for collection

• Place your bins no more than one metre from the kerbside the night before collection day – including on public holidays

• Bins must face the road and be away from any trees, cars or anything else that could prevent access to the bins

• Place each bin at least 30 centimetres apart

• Ensure the bin lid is closed

• Return bins to their usual place on your property as soon as possible after collection to avoid them being damaged, stolen or causing a public health/safety issue

Recycling and green organics bins are emptied on the same day as the general waste bin, but on alternate weeks. Council’s online Bin day finder will help you with the week for the green waste bin or the recycling bin.

Clydesdale Park shade sail

The shade structure over the playground at Clydesdale Park, corner of Norman Court and Rix Drive Upper Coomera, has been planned for full renewal. It will take some time; however, procurement will commence in the coming months and once a contractor has been appointed, we move into the design phase, followed by construction.

During construction works, the playground will be fenced off however the rest of the park will remain open. I will continue to keep you updated via social media and in future newsletters.

Two wheels up/two wheels down

Parking on narrow streets is a major source of frustration across the city. Council has on several occasions requested the law be reconsidered to permit two wheels up to create safer passage for traffic. Unfortunately, underground services and other legalities have stymied our efforts, and the practice can lead to fines.

So, please remember that parking with two wheels up on the nature strip and two wheels on the road surface remains illegal, despite your best intentions being recognised. Four wheels must be on the road.

We have also reviewed the on-street parking of large vehicles (caravans, boats, trailers) but at present the 7.5m in length/weight of 4500 tonnes limits remain.

Mowing schedules

Issues raised with mowing schedules are driven by high-growth, wet, and humid weather, causing rapid regrowth and saturated ground that prevents crews and machinery from operating.

Saturated ground will prevent mowing to avoid machinery from damaging turf and creating ruts. The recent rain has cause faster growth making it unsafe for crews to mow in some areas, especially on embankments throughout Willow Vale, Wongawallan, and Upper Coomera.

Crews will continue to service where possible and increase mowing frequency when possible. For further information on how seasonal weather can affect the mowing program visit City of Gold Coast Mowing Service. While we may not be able to mow grass because of current or recent weather conditions, if the grass is hazardous (example obscuring traffic) or significantly overgrown please let me know so officers can take a look.

Upper Coomera Centre cafe

“The Lunch Project” is the new Upper Coomera Centre café, with not only an improved menu and amenity – but giving back to the community in a big way. For every $20 spent – the Lunch Project provides a free lunch to a local school child in need. Their mission is to ensure that no child at school is hungry.

The inspiration was born from the alarming statistic that 1 in 5 Queensland kids arrive at school without lunch. Founder, Andy Glenn, is focused on enhancing the well-being, health, and confidence of children by providing a nourishing meal where needed. Many northern Gold Coast schools are participating, with more coming on board. Well done to The Lunch Project!

Coomera Parkrun

Are you ready to run in 2026? A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate – it's up to you! Every Saturday 7AM at Tallowwood Park, Highland Reserve, Rose Valley Drive Upper Coomera. It's free to join but please register before you first come along. For further information visit the Coomera Parkrun page. 

Fire Ants Gold Coast

Fire ant infestations continue to be found and reported on the Gold Coast. Fire ants are aggressive, highly adaptive, well-equipped for survival, and deliver a very painful sting.

Fire ants need to be stopped before they become established and affect our local environment. The Queensland Government have an active Fire Ant Control Program to eliminate the pest. Report fire ants by calling 13 25 23 or use the online form.

Contact me

Please continue to contact me regarding issues of interest or concern. Whatever the issue please call 07 5581 6598 or email division3@goldcoast.qld.gov.au so that I can action your request.

You can also report urgent after-hour matters to Council on 1300 465 326.

It’s helpful when you alert me to things that require attention and raise issues of interest or concern with me, as it can be difficult to be across what’s happening throughout the entire area.

Newsletters archive

For previous editions, please contact my office.

Disclaimer

While care has been taken to ensure that information contained in this newsletter is correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances may impact on the information provided.

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