Towards Tourism 2032 | SEQ Oyster Thieves | Electric Motocross Embraced | Yearling Sale Records Smashed | Starlink's Space-based Phone Towers | GC Weather Alerts and more!
Towards Tourism 2032 | SEQ Oyster Thieves | Electric Motocross Embraced | Yearling Sale Records Smashed | Starlink's Space-based Phone Towers | GC Weather Alerts and more!
Today’s newsletter is 1,290 words: 5.5 minute read.
Welcome to another Thursday, January 11, 2024!
In today’s email
‘Towards Tourism 2032’: The local experience economy’s mega growth plan
Electric Motocross Embraced: GC’s Australian Electric Motor Co. sees four-stroke competitors being replaced
Price Records Shattered: At The Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale
Trending: Big Bash League coast finals confirmed
Around The Web (Snippets): GC City weather alerts now available, Starlink’s first space-based mobile phone towers, SE QLD oyster thieves, $50k grants for disaster-hit locals, Nike and Tiger Woods end $745m partnership and more!
Councillor’s Corner PLUS Councillor Candidates for 2024
Upcoming Events
Weekend Weather and Surf
Live Gold Coast Housing Price Index
1. One Big Thing: Queensland's Tourism Blueprint for 2032
What’s Happening
Queensland is embarking on an ambitious journey with its 'Towards Tourism 2032' strategy, aiming to revolutionise its visitor economy.
This strategy includes substantial investments in tourism infrastructure and a focus on hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Why It Matters
This strategic pivot is crucial for both the Gold Coast and Queensland economies.
By aiming to double its overnight visitor expenditure to over $44 billion by 2032, the state is setting a benchmark in tourism growth, blending economic advancement with sustainable and accessible tourism practices.
Zoom In
India is the fastest-growing international tourism market for QLD, contributing over $116 million to the local economy in six months
The 2032 vision includes increasing the Indian market's overnight visitor expenditure to approximately $408 million, up from $150 million in 2019
$70 million has already been invested into Gold Coast building projects to accommodate increased demand
80 upcoming promotional campaigns lined up with diverse partners, such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup. GoPro India, MakeMyTrip, Singapore Airlines and more
Local Impact
For the Gold Coast and Queensland at large, this strategy translates into enhanced global visibility, increased employment opportunities, and a boost to local businesses.
Stepping Ahead
Looking ahead, preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are expected to bring over $8 billion in economic benefits.
The focus on sustainable and inclusive tourism ensures future-ready travel experiences.
What The People Say
Minister Stirling Hinchcliff emphasised the strategic importance of these initiatives, highlighting the potential economic impact and Queensland's aim to be a top global destination.
What To Look For Next
Expect to witness the unfolding of innovative tourism campaigns and the growth of eco-friendly and accessible tourism initiatives alongside the gradual transformation of Queensland's tourism infrastructure leading up to the 2032 Games.
2. Electric Motocross Embraced On The Gold Coast
What’s Happening
The Gold Coast is witnessing a revolutionary shift in motocross with the introduction of the Stark Varg, an electric dirt bike that outperforms traditional petrol models.
Why It Matters
Transitioning to electric motocross signifies a broader commitment to sustainability and innovation in sports.
This eco-friendly pivot promises to rejuvenate local tracks while reducing noise complaints.
It aligns with environmental concerns and the demand for quieter, residential-friendly tracks, marking a new era in motocross.
By the Numbers
The Stark Varg offers up to 80 HP, exceeding petrol MX bikes
Capable of racing for an hour on a full charge
Gold Coast City Council's Business Attraction Fund was instrumental in this shift
Local Impact
This introduction could revive closed tracks and balance sports enthusiasm with residential peace. It's a boon for local motocross fans and residents alike.
Revving Up
Negotiations to reopen tracks like Reedy Creek MX for electric motocross are underway, potentially boosting local tourism and sports engagement.
What The People Say
Tobin Page from Australian Electric Motor Co. heralds electric motocross as the sport's future, noting the Stark Varg’s power and handling advantages.
What To Look For Next
Watch for the expansion of electric motocross in Australia, potential improvements in battery technology, and the motocross community's response and uptake willingness of these eco-friendly innovations.
3. Records Shattered At The Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale
What’s Happening
The Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale is hitting new heights with record-breaking sales and an insatiable demand for top-quality colts, spotlighting the thriving market in high-value thoroughbred racing.
Why It Matters
This yearling market surge indicates robust health in the racing industry, an integral part of Australia's sporting culture.
The sale's success not only reflects the strength of the market but also underscores the significance of horse racing on the Gold Coast and in Australia.
By the Numbers
An incredible eight horses sold for $1 million or more on Day 2 of the sale
The sale's total gross has reached a staggering $101,833,000 at this stage
Local Impact
For the Gold Coast, the heart of Australia's racing industry, this event drives significant economic activity, attracts international attention, and cements its status as a premier destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
Forward Thrust
The momentum from this year's sale sets an optimistic tone for the future, suggesting continued growth and interest in the high-stakes world of thoroughbred racing.
What The People Say
Luke Wilkinson, who sold a colt for $1.6 million, described the sale as ‘life-changing’. Peter O'Brien from Segenhoe Stud praised the quality focus of breeders like John Camilleri, who had significant success selling million-dollar colts.
What To Look For Next
Expect to see continued growth in the thoroughbred market, with a keen eye on the performance of these top-tier yearlings in future racing seasons.
The evolution of breeding strategies and international interest will be critical factors.
4. Trending
🏏 GC to host Big Bash League finals, confirmed!
5. Around The Web (Snippets)
Gold Coast weather alert emails: Are now available to sign up for here from the City of Gold Coast
Starlink launched for mobile phone towers in space: Enabling mobile network operators around the world to provide seamless global access to texting, calling, and browsing wherever you may be on land, lakes, or coastal waters
Southeast Queensland oyster thieves: Have been coordinating highly organised thefts from leases off Stradbroke Island for the second year running, following renewed investment into the industry and devastating local livelihoods
$50,000 grants announced: For disaster-hit South East Queensland
Tiger Woods ends Nike partnership: After more than 27 years, which netted Woods about $745m in total🏌🏾
Movie World rollercoaster ride stopped midair: When a scarf became tangled in its wheels
Bitcoin ETF approved: After ten years since the first application was first submitted in the US
Australia’s tech skills shortage tackled: By Grok Academy's National Computer Science School (NCSS), which saw 160 Year 11 and 12 students from across the country choose to be in Sydney and Melbourne, engaged in a deeply immersive and advanced technology programme, covering disciplines like generative artificial intelligence, cyber security, coding, and cryptography
6. Councillors’ Corner
Div 6 | Ashmore, Benowa, Bundall, Southport | Cr Brooke Patterson
Div 11 | Burleigh Waters, Robina, Varsity Lakes, Cr Hermann Vorster
Councillor CANDIDATES’ Corner
Introducing Div 2 For 2024 Local Elections | Naomi Fowler
7. Upcoming Events
🎥 Dive’N’Movies: January 11- 21, at Wet ‘n’ Wild, proudly presented by Royal Caribbean, with heaps of movies showing
🤡Hudson' ’s Circus: January 11-21, at Broadwater in Southport
😎 Summer Splash: January 13 from 9 am - 12 pm, a free community event with inflatable water slides, DJ party, Bubbles, and more at Paradise Point Parklands
🎵 Live On The Lawn: Monday to Sunday until January 14 from 5 pm onwards; live acoustic acts, DJs, and drinks at Casino Level The Star Gold Coast
🎨Colourful Minds Painting Workshop: January 16 from 10 am - 2 pm; free painting activity for the family at Broadwater Parklands
📖 Stories that Stir: January 17 from 6:30 pm - 10 pm; hear inspiring transformation stories at the Lonestar Tavern
🎺 The Mal Wood Quartet: January 18 from 6 pm - 9 pm; one-night-only performance and jazz and blues stories at the Blue Water Grill in Hope Island