Greetings members
I hope everyone’s Easter long weekend was successful. As the year steadily progresses it is important to understand what has been happening in the world of Commerce on the Gold Coast.
The Easter period saw an influx of tourism into our local community, which is always great to see, bringing some business to the hard-working business owners of our community and enriching the local economy. With that being said, the Gold Coast Airport in Coolangatta is being expanded to accommodate for the growth in tourism over the last few years, with the aim to be completed for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games to be hosted in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The bout of rain and stormy weather we have experienced recently has led to an 8.2% increase in insurance premium prices, only adding to the already unmanageable cost of living crisis. Meanwhile, energy prices are soaring through the roof as the Callide power station has been in limbo for over 1000 days, while its re-opening would be the sensible way to reduce power prices. Furthermore, the cost of living has been exacerbated by the ongoing hike in supermarket prices, with the ACCC’s enquiry still in progress. The Easter long weekend also saw an increase in the price of chocolate as production prices have also steadily increased.
As always, I commiserate the small businesses affected by the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 works, especially the much-loved Rare Groove Records store in Nobby’s Beach, which has been so heavily impacted by the light rail works that they had to close after 30 years. Make sure you’re contributing to local businesses as much as possible by buying groceries from local growers, finding gifts at local stores, or even buying the newspaper from your local newsagent.
Finally, with the local council elections wrapped up, it is exciting to see the new faces that will be enhancing the Gold Coast City Council through their hard work and dedicated efforts.
In conclusion, as we reflect on the recent events shaping our community, it’s evident that both challenges and opportunities lie ahead. Amidst these developments, let us continue to support our local businesses and elected officials, fostering a community that thrives through collaboration and resilience.
As always, if you have any State issues you would like to discuss, please feel free to contact my office on:
Tel: 5600 0100 / Email: mermaid.beach@parliament.qld.gov.au
You can also find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/raystevens.mp
Or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raystevens.mp
Best Wishes,
Ray Stevens MP
