Mayor Tom Tate | Politician
Mayor Tom Tate
Phone: +61 7 5581 5283
Reviews
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25.01.2022 Any uplifting news about the City at the moment is worth celebrating, so it is great news that the Gold Coast is now the official world record holder for the most sand angels on a beach 1624. Congratulations to everyone involved!
25.01.2022 UPDATE: Don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have your photo with the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Cup when it visits Metricon Stadium tomorrow (Saturday 17th October) from 9:30-11:30am. This is the only chance to see the Cup on the coast before the Grand Final next weekend.... You will be joined at the event by Gold Coast SUNS young guns Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson, SUNS AFLW star Sally Riley and new recruits Maddison Levi and Wallis Randell. Entry is via Gate 6 and car parking is available on site in the Red Car Park. The AFL Premiership Cup, this Saturday at Metricon Stadium from 9:30-11:30am. Excitement is building for the AFL Grand Final in Queensland, and the iconic Premiership Cup has been travelling around the state. It has definitely been an unusual season, and the Gold Coast played a huge part in getting the season completed. Metricon Stadium hosted a record 43 matches this year, including the first ever AFL Final on the Gold Coast. Of course while it was great for Gold Coasters to get to see live games from so many clubs and champion players, it was the economic impact for our city that was the real winner this season. Not only did the team hubs support so many of our accommodation providers, but the clubs needed products and services from a whole range of businesses during the season, supporting our local businesses when they needed it most. I reckon this cup will be in the hands of the Gold Coast Suns in a couple of years! #wearegoldcoast
25.01.2022 We have so many amazing people in our city, who make the Gold Coast a better place every day. Now's the time to give them the recognition they deserve by nominating great Gold Coasters for the 2021 Australia Day Awards. The categories are:... Gold Coast Citizen of the Year: Recognises outstanding members of the community for their personal endeavours, achievements and community input. Gold Coast Young Citizen of the Year: Recognises young citizens for their personal endeavours, achievements and community input. Community Service Award: Recognises individuals or groups who have provided outstanding service to the community. Sports Achievement Award: Recognises the committed sportsperson, coach, administrator or official whose actions inspire others and enrich the community through sport. Environmental Achievement Award: Recognises individuals or groups who demonstrate genuine passion for the environment and strive to improve it. Cultural Achievement Award: Recognises individuals or groups involved in the city’s rich cultural and arts community. You can nominate here: https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au//australia-day-awards-555 Nominations close on 13 November
24.01.2022 Today I’m announcing a change to the way my Facebook page operates. Until further notice, this page will be used to share information about COVID-19 and how as a City we can respond to the pandemic to keep people safe and support Gold Coasters both socially and economically. Please keep an eye on this page for regular updates from the City, and as usual I will absolutely welcome your ideas and input on how we can do things better to keep the Gold Coast strong.... As you know, in recent days we have announced a number of measures to protect health, including shutting our libraries, aquatic centres, playgrounds etc. We do this with a heavy heart because I know how much the community loves these facilities but as the Prime Minister continues to say we just have to put health first at the moment. Financially I have announced a business support package, turned off the City’s parking meters and pledged to freeze rates. Stay tuned because there will be a lot more to come as we sharpen our pencil and look for every saving possible in Council’s budget to reduce pressure on the community. I hope you will all agree with me that this is the priority for now. Please refer to my Impressum for clarity about the rules of the page. I respectfully ask you to stay on subject or your comment might be blocked and if you continue to ignore the rules you might even be banned. There will always be a range of other ways to communicate with me about other topics that are near and dear to your heart so please use those other channels until further notice. Thanks for your support and continue to stay at home other than for essential outings. We will come out the other side bigger and better Gold Coast if we stay disciplined and strong. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au//coronavirus-covid-19-upd
24.01.2022 Here is information on changes to City services, including an update that public libraries, aquatic centres and some customer service centres will cease operations at close of business today until further notice. Indoor sports venues and gyms have also closed in line with the Australian Government’s announcement last night. Beaches remain open at this stage, but we are asking everyone to use common sense and make sure social distancing is in place.... The Local Disaster Management Group is 'stood up' so we are constantly monitoring the situation, and taking advice from the experts, especially Queensland Health. Take care Gold Coasters.
24.01.2022 The reopening of the theme parks means that 5,000 staff are back at work. The return of tourists to our city doesn't just directly support the tourism businesses, but also so many other businesses who benefit from this economic activity. This means more jobs for locals.
23.01.2022 On my way out of the Queensland Ballet performance of 60 dancers, 60 stories, I saw Tobi (created by artist Cynthia Cabello). He's also looking forward to the completion of the HOTA Art Gallery! #wearegoldcoast
22.01.2022 The City Budget 2020-21 that Council passed unanimously this morning lays out an economic plan for our roads to recovery from the global pandemic. All Principal Place of Residence ratepayers will receive a financial rebate of $64 which means that 137,800 of these ratepayers will receive a general rate reduction. The last eight years of strong and disciplined financial management has meant that when faced with framing this year’s budget we were able to do so from a position of... strength. This gave us the ability to actively respond to the changed circumstances, and provide the leadership and support our residents and businesses need at this difficult time. By investing in our infrastructure, as well as maintaining our community assets, we can protect local jobs while supporting both our community and our businesses. We will continue to deliver for our community the essential services that our city requires, while setting the economic foundations for our full recovery. We are very confident that we can not only recover but come out even stronger than before. Our city has faced challenging times before, from natural disasters, and economic challenges like the global financial crisis. Of course this is the biggest challenge we have experienced, but we can and will overcome the health, economic and social challenges we currently face, and protect and preserve the Gold Coast lifestyle we all love. I can assure all Gold Coasters that Councillors and City Officers have worked tirelessly to ensure that this budget is the right response for our city at this challenging time. As we face the ongoing challenge, let’s remember that we are all in this together. Details of the 2020-21 City Budget can be seen here: https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/counc/annual-plan-606.html
21.01.2022 All aboard, we're heading south. It's great news with the State Government joining Council in committing funds for the business case to progress Light Rail Stage 4 from Burleigh to Coolangatta via the airport. This announcement moves us one step closer to completing the north-south public transport route that has been has been talked about in our linear city for so long.... Funds have also been provided to investigate public transport options on east-west routes. The plan is to ensure that Stage 4 can commence as soon as Stage 3 from Broadbeach to Burleigh is completed, to keep the project moving forward.
21.01.2022 The impacts of COVID-19 are far reaching and new information is coming out from agencies on an hourly basis. These agencies are doing their absolute best to respond to the pandemic and I thank them all. As Mayor however, I am receiving multiple briefings every day so I thought it would be useful for me to post some general information for you all in one place. If you want more specific information on any of the matters below I suggest that you phone, or check the websites, of...Continue reading
19.01.2022 Gold Coasters, you've been doing a great job with following the COVID 19 guidelines, so we have been able to ease some restrictions from this weekend. If everyone keeps social distancing, and following the advice, we can continue to move closer to getting back to normal.
18.01.2022 We want to make sure rates don't increase as people are hurting out there. In this budget the focus is on roads, transport and community facilities, while still delivering important Council services. I am very confident we are going to be the most prosperous city post recovery from COVID-19.
18.01.2022 Thank you to Ruth and our family, and all the wonderful volunteers for this 2020 campaign.Thank you to Ruth and our family, and all the wonderful volunteers for this 2020 campaign.
15.01.2022 UPDATE - City Parking From Saturday 28 March, to support local business and everyone still working, the City will switch off all its parking meters on a city-wide basis, that is, all on street and City owned off street parking ( thus free parking), except Bruce Bishop, Mal Burke and Jubilee carparks that will be capped at $5 a day. This is for the whole of the City, but is especially to assist health workers in our medical precincts.... Also Council’s parking officers have been instructed not to issue fines for parking offences across the City except in circumstances where the illegal parking is causing a safety risk or preventing the free-flow of traffic through the Gold Coast. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au//coronavirus-covid-19-upd
15.01.2022 Congratulations Gold Coast our good work with social distancing and hygiene have been key to this outcome. This is wonderful news and another step towards returning to our normal lives. The Gold Coast is open for business and I’d encourage anyone who can, to open their wallets and enjoy the goods and services that our city and broader Queensland have to offer.... https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au//roadmap-to-easing-queensla
14.01.2022 All aboard! The city’s ferry service is back, with two new locally built vessels out on the water. It’s time to get back on board, explore our city by water and support this service to make it a permanent part of our transport network. Whether you’re hopping over to Sea World for the day, or for a weekend outing to HOTA, we want to help you keep choosing sustainable travel options.... Everything we do around transport is all part of our plan to make active travel the new normal and reduce congestion on our roads. The 60 capacity ferry is specifically designed for Gold Coast waterways with features to protect marine life and habitats. There’s free Wi-Fi, two allocated wheelchair spaces and space for prams, bikes, surfboards and other sporting equipment on-board.
14.01.2022 Here's another Australian first for the Gold Coast, with the use of revolutionary technology for road resurfacing that turns old roads in to new. This process uses the existing road surface and recycles the materials using a process called 'foam asphalt'. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also uses 50% less energy, is 30%-50% cheaper, and takes less time. This will save us thousands of dollars that will be able to be used for new and improved footpaths, kerbs and channels. A win all round.
14.01.2022 Here's some good news for northern Gold Coasters.
14.01.2022 They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.... LEST WE FORGET This year, due to COVID-19, we have to find unique and creative ways to remember those who served this country so bravely. The image below is a quintessential Gold Coast tribute, some of you may recognise it. This year Council's Water and Waste completed Phase 3 of our Water Walls project, which featured a homage to the ANZAC’s on the pump station next to Currumbin RSL. The entire pump station has been painted with red poppies featuring a pair of hands gently cradling some freshly selected flowers. These held blooms are a symbol of remembrance for those who lost their lives in war; red for people, purple for animals and white to represent peace. Well done to artist Mike Shankster for this tribute, you can read more about it here: https://www.currumbinrsl.com.au/city-art-honours-those-nev/
13.01.2022 I'm on board for a 2020 membership for the Suns, so now's the time to get on board too. With the news that Queensland is the 'home' of the AFL this year, it's a great time to get behind the local team and barrack loud for the Gold Coast! #wearegoldcoast
12.01.2022 One of the questions I get asked the most is what is my favourite song. It really depends on what I'm doing at the time, but this song is one of my favourites, especially during the election. It's an uplifting song, with wonderful lyrics that you can sing along to.... Enjoy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_WzSbi8aR8
12.01.2022 You never know when you might need it. This week I did a refresher course on performing CPR. No one knows better than me that you never know when you might need to be ready to help. If you own a business I urge you to have a defibrillator installed in your workplace.... There are also some emergency apps you can have on your phone with helpful information and contacts in case of an emergency. If you haven't done a first aid course I would really encourage you to take one. Hopefully you'll never need it, but if you need to help someone, it's reassuring to know what to do.
11.01.2022 Following my previous post here's an update on Hopo's operations.
11.01.2022 Everyone has the right to make a living, and also have a democratic right to have an opinion. It is cowardly to economically attack anyone based on their opinion. Right now we need to be supporting local businesses more than ever. It’s disturbing to think that business owners are copping it for supporting an infrastructure project that supports the economy and ultimately their livelihood.... What I find interesting is why is this not happening in other parts of the city, from Logan River to Tweed? (ie: Currumbin, Tugun, Bilinga, Coolangatta). We will consult with the whole of the Gold Coast about this project. Due process will be followed when consultation begins, and everyone can have their say. See you at consultation.........
11.01.2022 Hi everyone, Over the next few days you will start to see this sign going up around the city and particularly around the beaches that remain open. Please take heed of this message and do your bit to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
09.01.2022 We are continuing to tackle congestion, with upgrades to the Sundale Bridge passing the halfway mark. Works to create the third northbound lane are well underway and are on-time and on budget. The $34 million Sundale Bridge and Waterways Drive upgrade will increase capacity and improve traffic flow in the area, and includes upgrades to Waterways Drive, Main Beach Parade, and Macarthur Parade.... Drivers travelling from The Spit to Southport often experience significant hold ups during peak times, but on completion in late 2021, travel from The Spit to Southport is projected to take only eight minutes during peak times. Traffic flow will be improved by clearing northbound traffic off Waterways Drive and the Sundale Bridge faster to provide more green traffic light time for travellers heading south on the Gold Coast Highway. The Macarthur Parade/Seaworld Drive roundabout has also been converted into a signalised T-intersection and 1,700 metres of new pathway has been built to encourage walking, running and cycling around Main Beach. The project has, created around 200 jobs so far.
08.01.2022 Ruth is recovering in hospital this morning after suffering a fall in Southport last night caused by her ongoing heart condition. We thank everyone for their kind wishes and especially the paramedics and medical staff for their wonderful care.
08.01.2022 Currumbin Wildlife Hospital will now be vaccinating all koala patients against chlamydia prior to their release back into the wild, which is a major milestone for the protection of koalas. This is great news for the preservation of koalas on the Gold Coast. We are very proud to be part of this program which is making a real difference in helping to boost koala numbers in our city. In 2019, the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital treated, rehabilitated and released almost 600 koalas... from Queensland and New South Wales. More than half were sick and dying from chlamydia. Out of the other half, many had 'sub-clinical' chlamydia, meaning they were becoming sick. The vaccine to be used on the koala patients at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital before they are released back into the wild will be produced at QUT. The plan is for a pilot study to commence with a test population in Elanora. The City is also close to acquiring our first piece of land with the sole purpose of protecting koala habitat so to have that work going hand in hand with this work is really heartening. Congratulations to the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and QUT for the outstanding work and commitment to this cause.
07.01.2022 For many Gold Coasters, COVID restrictions have meant that, more than ever, we are out and about checking out our local walking trails and bush land. And the feedback I'm getting is that many of you are spotting koalas also out and about... So I thought I'd remind everyone that if you see a koala on the Gold Coast we want to hear from you! Because by reporting koala sightings you are helping us to gather important information which informs our conservation efforts. To report ...a koala sighting you can: Call us on 1300 GOLDCOAST (1300 465 326) Complete our koala sighting form - https://gchaveyoursay.com.au/koal/survey_tools/reportakoala Call Wildcare Australia Inc. on their 24/7 hotline 07 5527 2444 (if a koala is sick, injured or in danger) It's also important to remember to make sure your dogs are secured and kept an eye on to keep local koalas safe. To learn more about the City's Koala conservation efforts and more information on what you can do to help koalas on the Gold Coast visit www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au/koalas
06.01.2022 Some great news yesterday when we unveiled the building facade for the HOTA gallery. There is no doubt in my mind that this gallery will take its place in Australia’s artistic and cultural landscape as a must-see destination. The project is a major economic stimulator for the city and has provided 512 jobs to local workers to date, with this figure set to increase to 1,100 by the time the gallery is completed at the end of the year. I’m pleased to say that construction of the... gallery is on time and on budget for a 2021 public opening. It provides 2000sqm of gallery exhibition space including a 1000 square metre exhibition hall for touring international exhibitions. The building’s unique design will attract locals and visitors. The distinctive colouring of the façade is reflective of the city’s sub-tropical environment, and will be beautifully comprised of a mixture of glass and aluminium panels. The building design was inspired by Australian artist, William Robinson’s ‘The Rainforest’ a signature piece from the City’s collection. We’ve recently completed the Green Bridge connecting HOTA to Chevron Island, so the gallery and cultural precinct is even more accessible to the community.
05.01.2022 This is my 3rd anniversary. As you may know 3 years ago my routine colonoscopy revealed that I had bowel cancer. Luckily I made a full recovery. My health issue encourages everyone to get their health checks done regularly, especially bowel cancer checks, and especially for those over 50. Take what's happened with me as a trigger for your own health checks...catching bowel cancer early is crucial.... Please don't say 'I'll be right' as this could impact your whole family and the people you love. Do it for them. https://www.health.gov.au///getting-a-bowel-screening-test
05.01.2022 The magic is back, and it was great to catch up with all my superhero friends! The theme parks show the resilience and recovery of the Gold Coast, and the fun is back for all the family. Well done Gold Coast!... #wearegoldcoast
04.01.2022 I am the first person who wants our borders reopened but we have to balance people's health with our economy. A setback to our recovery through interstate infections would cost us months, even years, of tourism investment. Right now the risk is too high. I understand tourism and its importance and that is why we are doing everything possible to help local businesses through our budget measures.... The borders will reopen.... but right now the health advice must be front and centre. With regard to the general easing of restrictions, please keep an eye out for announcements from the Premier this weekend.
02.01.2022 I understand the concerns that COVID-19 is causing for businesses and families across the city. I want to assure the community that I will do everything I can to ease the burden whilst we are going through such a difficult time. Following the election, should I be re-elected, I intend to: - Freeze rates, levies and water charges... - Accelerate the City’s capital works program to super-charge employment. The City’s strong financial position achieved through the retirement of $250m + in debt during my 8 years as Mayor means we are in a position to do this. - Review our Purchasing Policy to provide even more preference for local businesses and local jobs - Waive all fees, lease, license payments etc for the City’s 443 community organisations and sporting clubs so they can invest that money in footballs, cricket bats etc for members In summary I will do everything within my power to waive fees and freeze rates and charges so everyone in the community gets a hand to get back on their feet. ***BUSINESS SUPPORT PACKAGE (announced today)*** (https://www.facebook.com/notes/city-of-gold-coast/business-support-package-ceo-dale-dickson-announcement-24-march/3007049506012516/) I understand that local businesses have been hit hard by COVID-19 and I want the City to do everything in its powers to provide immediate relief. As such, effective immediately, the City will; - Waive fees for outdoor dining and backdate those waivers to 1 February - Waive rent for businesses with community leases on City premises - Waive fees for development applications related to Covid-19 (e.g. a church who wishes to expand from a place of worship to provision of food for the needy) - Supercharge our accounts payable system so local businesses with contracts with Council are paid much quicker For full details on the package, please check the City's website www.cityofgoldcoast.com.au/businesssupport
02.01.2022 What a wonderful day on the GC and it's not even Spring yet! Just finished a piece for Gold Coast Open House which this year will be delivered virtually, giving access to more houses and venues than ever before. If you haven't already, go check out the stunning view atop the outdoor stage at Home of the Arts. It was great to see a Hopo Gold Coast Ferry out on our waterways alongside the new HOTA green bridge.
01.01.2022 Thank you to everyone who supported my re-election as Mayor of our city I could not have done it without your support. I also congratulate all incumbent councillors who were re-elected convincingly across the Gold Coast. These results, in my humble opinion, reflect the community’s support for the Council’s work over the past four years. I can certainly say that we will be working hard this term to deliver the infrastructure and services Gold Coasters want and need.... This is our victory and a victory for our city.
01.01.2022 ***IMPORTANT MESSAGE***
01.01.2022 As we know the northern Gold Coast is one of the fastest growing areas in Australia, so it is vital we have transport infrastructure to service the area. The State Member for Coomera Michael Crandon MP is sponsoring a petition to fast track the construction of the Pimpama train station. I've signed the petition, so get on board!... https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au//petit/petition-details
