Sun Community Newspapers in Southport, Queensland | Newspaper

Sun Community Newspapers

Locality: Southport, Queensland

Phone: +61 7 5584 2459

Address: Seabank, 12 Marine Pde 4215 Southport, QLD, Australia

Website: http://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au

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25.01.2022 CHANGES TO SENIOR DRIVERS' MEDICAL CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS Senior Queenslanders are again being urged to stay at home with the Queensland Government changing its medical certificate requirements for drivers 75 and over. As part of wider efforts in response to COVID-19, senior Queensland drivers will not be required to visit their doctor or optometrist to obtain a medical certificate to meet senior driver licensing requirements, reducing the risk of exposure to the coronaviru...s and the need to go outside. Strong advice from Australian and Queensland government health authorities is for senior Australians to self-isolate, with the risk of serious illness from coronavirus much higher among older people. Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said doctors and optometrists have reported older Queenslanders leaving their home to renew their medical certificate when they should be limiting travel. The health advice has been clear: stay at home, Mr Bailey said. Regulatory changes have been made to do two things in response to COVID-19: Medical certificates that were obtained to meet the senior driver requirements, that expired after 29 January 2020, will be considered valid until six months after the COVID-19 emergency ends; and During this emergency period, senior drivers will not be committing an offence if they drive while not holding a valid medical certificate. These changes come into effect Friday. "These changes will help to reduce the risk of virus exposure senior Queensland drivers would face when visiting a clinic and taking medical exams. The more people staying at home, the more we can lessen the strain on our health system. "I encourage everyone in the community to relay this information to older friends and relatives to help ease their concerns." For more information, visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/tran/licensing/update/medical/notify See more

22.01.2022 SPEEDING MOTORCYCLIST FACES CHARGES OVER STOLEN PROPERTY A Tugun man allegedly caught riding an unregistered motorcycle at excessive speeds has been charged with 15 offences after a number of stolen vehicles were located at a Clear Island Waters property on Friday night. Shortly before 9pm, the 30-year-old was observed by police allegedly travelling around 140km/h in an 80km/h speed zone at Mermaid Waters. The Suzuki GSXR6R was monitored by Polair as it travelled to a Tortuga... Place residence at Clear Island Waters where the rider briefly stopped then travelled to a vacant block where it will be alleged he attempted to hide the motorcycle in bushes. When officers arrived, it will be alleged they located a bag on the rider containing a large quantity of dangerous drugs. Further investigations at a Tortuga Place address where officers located a 2011 Landrover Discovery, two boat trailers and two jet skis all alleged to have been stolen. Officers also allegedly uncovered Methylamphetamine, MDMA, a homemade conductive energy device and flick knife. A 30-year-old Tugun man has been given a Notice to Appear in the Southport Magistrates Court in August on possessing dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime, driving without a licence and unlawful possession of weapons charges. See more

22.01.2022 It is with much sadness to learn of the passing of Noel Kelly who apart from being a rugby league legend was someone who I was fortunate to call a friend. I ma...y not have known Noel a long time but I truely looked forward to his company, his insight and his stories. I knew him more as a great man than the league player well idolised. From the day we first met on my verandah drinking beer, I always enjoyed catching up, especially over my "donkey piss" home brew which is what he called it at first. Over time, Noel would ask if I had any "donkey piss" and even made a special black batch in his honour. We have lost a great character of the game, many of us have lost a great friend and the Kelly family have lost a great father and grandfather. Tonight I will sit on my verandah with a home made "donkey piss" and count my lucky stars to be able to say I knew Noel Kelly. Rest in peace Ned. See more

19.01.2022 An air and sea search is continuing for missing Southport man Jarryd Treacher after his car was found locked and parked at The Spit on Saturday. Anyone who has ...found flippers or a bodyboard is being urged to contact police. Queensland Police: Gold Coast police searching for missing man Jarryd Treacher are also searching waterways after unconfirmed sightings of the 30-year-old at the Southport seaway on Saturday, May 16. Gold Coast water police are searching an area encompassing Main Beach through to Moreton Island and are appealing for anyone who may have located flippers or a bodyboard (similar to attached images) to contact police. Polair and police vessels have been involved in the search to date. Jarryd was last seen around 10am on Saturday, May 16 at a Brooke Avenue address but it is now believed he may have gone body boarding after police received unconfirmed reports of a man wearing jeans paddling near the southwall out of the seaway at Southport on Saturday at approximately 10.15am . Jarryd’s vehicle was located locked and parked at The Spit carpark later that night. Jarryd is described as Caucasian, around 183cm tall with a slim build, medium-length blonde/brown hair and blue eyes with a tattoo on his left ankle. Anyone who may have seen Jarryd, knows of his whereabouts, or has seen his bodyboard or flippers, is urged to immediately contact police. www.7NEWS.com.au #7NEWS

18.01.2022 POLICE INVESTIGATE UPPER COOMERA BREAK AND ENTERS Police are investigating a break and enter at a supermarket and an attempted break and enter at a service station at Upper Coomera in the early hours of this morning (Thursday). Around 1.30am an attempt was made to gain entry to a closed service station at Commercial Street by trying to smash the front glass doors. No entry was able to be gained and nothing was stolen. Then at 1.50am entry was gained to a Reserve Road supermar...ket by smashing a glass window at the front of the store. A quantity of cigarettes was then stolen from a glass window display that had been broken open. Detectives are presently investigating links between these two offences. Anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in these areas around the time of the incident is urged to contact police. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

15.01.2022 POLICE PROBE SURFERS PARADISE DEATH Gold Coast detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man in Surfers Paradise early Saturday morning. Police were called to a View Avenue apartment block just after 3am where the body of a 19-year-old Brisbane man was located. Initial investigations indicate the man fell from a balcony. As a result, police attended a unit above where four teenage males were in a semi- conscious state, after consuming prescript...ion drugs. All four were transported to Robina Hospital in a stable condition. Earlier, around 2:20am, two 16-year-old boys believed to be from the same group were arrested between View Avenue and the Esplanade for possession of prescription drugs. Investigations are continuing. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

15.01.2022 POLICE INVESTIGATE BREAK AND ENTERS SPATE Police are investigating break and enters on five chemists and one newsagency on the Gold Coast Monday morning that are believed to be linked. In each instance offenders attempted to or smashed their way through glass doors to gain entry to the premises. Between 2.30am and 4.30am chemists at Lae Drive Runaway Bay, Brisbane Road at Biggera Waters, Musgrave Avenue at Southport, Ashmore Road at Benowa, Olsen Avenue at Parkwood and a news...agency at Ashmore Road at Benowa were all targeted. In some instances medication was stolen by two to three males. Police believe the males may have been travelling in a small black sedan. Investigations are ongoing. If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day. See more

14.01.2022 STARLIGHT CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION SEEKS PUBLIC HELP The public may be staying at home but they can still make dreams come true by donating to Starlight Day, the Starlight Children's Foundation on Friday. The Foundation urgently needs Australians to make a donation to give happiness to over 5000 seriously ill and hospitalised children around the country. Starlight CEO Louise Baxter said Starlight is hoping to raise $250,000 to support its vital hospital services, the Starlight E...xpress Room and Captain Starlight. Life as we know it has been turned upside down. Now more than ever, kids in hospital need fun and joy to help them cope with the loneliness, isolation and fear they are facing. In these uncertain times, we need your support to continue keeping our Starlight programs and Captain Starlight services running daily, she said. As little as $50 will give one child a fun Starlight Surprise pack filled with activities and games, and $80 will provide access to 48 hours of Starlight TV hosted by Captain Starlight. Starlight TV is an interactive show that broadcasts live into the bedsides of sick kids in hospital. Loaded with quizzes, silly games, jokes and activities from Captain Starlight, sick kids in hospital can continue to enjoy the magic of Starlight whilst in isolation. As the health situation has evolved, Starlight has been there every step of the way, working with the hospital community to ensure it continues to deliver its vital programs to sick kids in need. Through virtual play sessions, interactive livestreams on Starlight TV and daily emails filled with activities and quizzes the whole family can enjoy, Starlight continues to be a light in the darkness for sick kids and their families. Please make a donation today on the Starlight Day website, with all donations made before midnight on Friday generously double-matched by four Starlight partners, including Spotlight and NAPA. To donate today, please visit starlightday.org.au/ See more

14.01.2022 POLICE MARK 100,000 BORDER INTERCEPTIONS OVER FOUR WEEKS Frontline police officers are maintaining a strong presence at Queensland borders to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, with more than 100,000 vehicles intercepted in the first four weeks. Officers deployed to far reaching corners of the Queensland divide are remaining positive, professional and good humoured despite often being confronted with treacherous conditions. Officers from the Gold Coast Rapid Action Patrol e...njoyed a laugh at one innovative motorcyclist who took a more streamlined approach to crossing over from NSW by copying his border pass onto his t-shirt. The early stages of the restrictions proved more difficult for some to come to terms with in particular, a 31-year-old Palm Beach man stopped at Tugun on April 8 with 93 kilos of cannabis located inside his Ford Ranger as well as $4,300 in cash. The last time restrictions were introduced between the Queensland NSW border was in 1919 when a barbed-wire fence was built at Coolangatta to prevent the spread of Spanish Flu. State Disaster Coordinator Steve Gollschewski has acknowledged the efforts of all personnel for their commitment and diligence while securing the state’s borders. Police from Mount Isa have shared stomach-churning vision of plagues of gidgee bugs (otherwise known as stink bugs) crawling over trailers and crunching under police cars. To stay warm at night during patrols, officers from Camooweal started a fire pit and were joined by their Northern Territory counterparts along with Australian Federal Police and Australian Defence Force personnel, forming close bonds beyond the border. See more

14.01.2022 POLICE INVESTIGATE SURFERS PARADISE STABBING Police are investigating after a man sustained non-life threatening stab wounds to his leg at Surfers Paradise Monday afternoon. Around 5.50pm a scuffle broke out between three men at Cavill Avenue where punches were thrown. During the incident a 41-year-old man sustained two puncture wounds to his upper right leg. The man was taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Police investigations are ...continuing. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

14.01.2022 Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has released Queensland’s roadmap to a COVID-safe recovery allowing more travel, more activities and larger gatherings. From 11.59pm, Friday May 15, the following will be allowed: - Gatherings of a maximum of 10 people together in a public space - Dining in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, RSLs and cafes for a maximum of 10 patrons at one time as part of a gradual re-opening (no bars or gaming) - Recreational travel of a radius of up to 150km from yo...ur home for day trips - Some beauty therapies and nail salons for up to 10 people at one time - Reopening of libraries. playground equipment, skate parks and outdoor gyms (a maximum of 10 at one time) - Wedding guests increased to 10 people and funeral attendance increased to 20 (30 outdoors) - Open homes and auctions with a maximum of 10 people at one time; - Re-opening public pools and lagoons (eg South Bank, Cairns, Airlie Beach) with a maximum of 10 people at a time or greater numbers with an approved plan For Outback Queensland, where there have been no COVID cases, two special concessions have been made: - Dining in at pubs and cafes will be up to 20 for locals only, reflecting the important role these venues play in connecting small outback communities; and - Recreational travel of a radius of up to 500 kilometres reflecting the long distances in the Outback. Stage Two, effective 11.59pm, Friday June 12 would provide for: - Gatherings at homes with a maximum of 20 visitors - Dining-in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, cafes and RSLs for up to 20 patrons at a time and an option for more with an approved COVID-safe plan - Holiday travel within your region The Premier said Stage Three would include reviews of border closures and build to 100 customers for venues giving certainty to business, communities and families to be able to plan ahead. All things going well, from June school holidays, Queenslanders will be able to drive and stay at accommodation for the first time since the pandemic hit, the Premier said. Stages Two and Three aim at gradually increasing travel distances and numbers for businesses in time for June school holidays. This is when we want people to be able to take a drive holiday within their region so that Queenslanders can back Queenslanders, the Premier said. More details: https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/

13.01.2022 TWO CHARGED OVER SURFERS PARADISE STABBING Two men have been charged after another man sustained non-life threatening stab wounds to his leg at Surfers Paradise in early May this year. It is alleged around 5.50pm on May 4, a scuffle broke out between three men at Cavill Avenue where punches were thrown. During the incident it is alleged a 41-year-old man sustained two puncture wounds to his upper right leg. The injured man was taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital with ...non-life threatening injuries. A 43-year-old man from Surfers Paradise has been charged with grievous bodily harm, possess dangerous drug and possess utensil. He is due to face Southport Magistrates Court today (Tuesday). A 37-year-old man also from Surfers Paradise has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. He is due to face Southport Magistrates Court on August 10, 2020. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

13.01.2022 THE PINES MANAGES SOCIAL DISTANCING AT EASTER THE Pines Elanora has responded to the wishes of its major stores - Coles, Kmart, Woolworths and ALDI - and has commenced the management of customer numbers in stores, by announcing that they will also be ready to ensure visitors to the centre have enough space to maintain social distancing, during the traditionally busy Easter shopping period. Centre Manager, Hilary Jacobs expressed the need for everyone to have space for their s...afety and welfare, during this busy time. Hilary Jacob said if necessary, during the busy Thursday Easter shopping period, we’ll be ready to manage customers numbers entering The Pines. COVID 19 has affected the daily lives of everyone in our community. We want to ensure we continue to run as smoothly as possible and will be introducing new measures to keep the Centre as safe as possible at what has historically been a busy time. she said. The Solar rooftop car park will be closed on Thursday 9 April At busy periods of the day the ground floor entrances may need to have one in one out policies implemented to maintain safe customer numbers Please respect our teams and all of our community The morning is traditionally the peak time! The Pines Elanora are encouraging customers to respect the essential service it provides to the local community. Shopping is no longer a leisure activity during this crisis. Large family groups are discouraged from entering the supermarkets together, couples are asked that one remain in the mall, to give everyone the correct social distancing required. Hilary Jacobs continued: The key message we’re receiving is that in order to win this worldwide battle, Social Distancing is our main tool. These controls are for everyone’s safety, to ensure that we maintain at least 4 sqm for each customer and to enable everyone to carry out effective social distancing. Further details can be found on the website - www.thepineselanora.com.au. See more

12.01.2022 SENIORS URGED TO CHECK OUT COMMONWEALTH SENIORS HEALTH CARD National Seniors Australia says hundreds of thousands of older Australians now qualify for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), and probably don’t realise it. The country’s peak advocacy and consumer group for seniors says they would also qualify for a $750 stimulus payment if they are an eligible CSHC holder on July 10. National Seniors Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke says the reason so many more seniors would qu...alify is because of the recent cuts to the deeming rates. Lower deeming rates mean more retirees fall below the income test threshold for the card. There could be hundreds of thousands of older Australians eligible and they don’t even realise, Mr Henschke said. The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card provides a range of concessions including up to $1,180 a year due to a lower Medicare safety net and similar savings via the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It also offers retirees access to some state and territory concessions and the likelihood of being bulk billed by a doctor. Not only that, but if they don’t apply and are not a Seniors Health Card holder by July 10, they could miss out on the $750 stimulus payment. To qualify for the card, you must have reached the pension age, meet an income test, are not receiving any payment from Veterans Affairs and are an Australian resident living in Australia. To meet the income test you must earn below the following income thresholds: $55,808 for singles $89,290 for couples $111,616 for couples who are separated by illness, respite care or prison. See more

12.01.2022 MAN CHARGED WITH DRUG OFFENCES AT BORDER CHECKPOINT A 31-year-old man will face drug charges after his arrest at a state border checkpoint on Wednesday afternoon. Officers performing duties at the state border checkpoint on the Pacific Highway, Tugun intercepted a Ford Ranger utility with a trailer attempting to enter Queensland at approximately 5.30pm on April 8. It will be alleged that during a search of the vehicle police located 93 kilograms of cannabis and $4,300 cash. T...he drugs located have a street value of $450,000. A 31-year-old Palm Beach man was arrested and charged with the possession of dangerous drugs and the possession of property suspected of be used in connection with a drug offence. He has been bailed to appear at the Coolangatta Magistrates Court on July 6, 2020. The man was also issued a $1,334 infringement notice for breaching the Chief Health Officer’s direction. Detective Inspector Chris Ahearn from the Gold Coast Criminal Investigation Branch said any person attempting to enter our state, even if they are a Queensland resident should expect a heightened level of scrutiny. In addition to the current biosecurity risks, police will remain vigilant to disrupt any criminal activity, Detective Inspector Chris Ahearn. See more

11.01.2022 POLICE INVESTIGATE ATTEMPTED ARMED ROBBERY Police are investigating the attempted armed robbery of a service station at Southport Thursday night. Around 9pm the 50-year-old male store employee saw a man acting suspiciously outside the Nerang Street business and directed a customer inside the store to leave. The attendant then retreated to a back room. The man entered the store before the 59-year-old male customer could leave and threatened him with a firearm while making dema...nds for money. After the customer advised the man that he was not an employee and could not open the till, he fled the scene empty-handed. The man is described as being aged in his 20’s and wearing a black hoodie, sunglasses and shorts. No one was physically injured in the incident. Investigations are ongoing. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

11.01.2022 MUDGEERABA CARAVAN PARK RAID LEADS TO TWO CHARGED OVER ALLEGEDLY STOLEN TOOLS Police have charged two people after a number of allegedly stolen construction tools and various drug-related items were found at a Mudgeraaba caravan park on Tuesday. Around 9:00am officers from Mudgeeraba police station identified a vehicle of interest which had allegedly been involved in recent property offences in Robina and Broadbeach. This led to a search warrant being executed at a Mudgeeraba... caravan park where it is alleged numerous stolen tools and construction site equipment was located. Police also allegedly located two syringes and a plastic water pipe. A 45-year-old man and 23-year-old woman, both from Mudgeeraba, were charged with two counts of entering with intent, one count of stealing, one count of possess tainted property, one count of receive tainted property, one count of wilful damage and three counts of drug possession. The identified car was involved in an alleged break-and-enter at a Robina construction site on March 30 where various construction tools including a compressor were stolen, and came into possession of tools stolen from a beak-and-enter at Broadbeach on March 1. Acting Senior Sergeant Matthew Pyke said the arrests highlight the ongoing focus on ensuring communities remain safe. Some people may believe that, given the current circumstances, they are less likely to get caught engaging in criminal activity, Acting Senior Sergeant Pyke said. A large portion of the stolen equipment has been returned to its rightful owners. If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day. You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day. See more

11.01.2022 THE TOP END REOPENS FOR VISITORS The Northern Territory borders will officially re-open on 17 July with iconic destinations including World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park accessible again for all Australians to enjoy. Tourism Northern Territory is inviting everyone to turn their holiday dreaming into holiday bookings so you can all enjoy the warm tropical North and spectacular blue skies of the Red Centre. From 17 July, self-quarantine... for domestic travellers arriving in the Territory is no longer required. Our tourist destinations, attractions, restaurants and tour operators are getting ready to welcome new and returning visitors. As one of the safest places in Australia, those bucket list experiences that are synonymous with the Northern Territory are ready and waiting. Exploring the Territory has moved from your ‘one day’ list to the best place to be from 17 July. Tourism NT Executive General Manager of Marketing Tony Quarmby anticipates first-time visitors will be keen to visit popular NT destinations including Darwin, Alice Springs, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Kakadu National Park, Kings Canyon, Nitmiluk National Park, Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands. From the Red Centre to the Top End, the Territory is the envy of international locations with beautiful outback adventures, an abundance of wildlife, World Heritage-listed National Parks, waterfalls, swimming holes and the world’s oldest living culture all waiting for you. See more

11.01.2022 SEND US YOUR MEMORIES! The Gold Coast Sun team are working on the final edition of your newspaper. We would love to hear your favourite moments, stories, and memories from the past 53 years in print as we say a sad goodbye to Australia's most read community newspaper! Email us at [email protected] by COB today to be included.

11.01.2022 POLICE PROBE MERIMAC ARMED ROBBERY Police are investigating the armed robbery of a service station at Merrimac in the early hours of Monday morning. Around 12.18am three masked males have entered the Gooding Drive service station armed with a hammer and a wrench. Once inside the 38-year-old female store employee has retreated to a back area and one of the males has jumped the counter and removed the cash drawer. While the offenders were inside the premises the front glass doo...rs automatically locked causing one of the males to use the hammer to smash the glass door to get out of the service station. No one was physically injured during the incident. Investigations are ongoing. If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day. See more

11.01.2022 BEWARE MOTHER'S DAY SCAMMERS Gold Coasters are being warned to be vigilant of Mother’s Day scams this year, as some unscrupulous traders seek coronavirus pandemic profits. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath said with social distancing making Mother’s Day 2020 different from usual, buying a gift online from a local retailer is a great way to show Mum you’re thinking of her. Dodgy websites, late deliveries, and a questionable quality of products are just a ...few things you don’t want to have to deal with when shopping for a gift this Mother’s Day, Mrs D’Ath said. One way to ensure you don’t deliver a dud on Mother’s Day is to support a small or local business you trust by visiting them online. Scammers can use the anonymous nature of the internet to rip off unsuspecting shoppers. Buying through the website of a local trader you know reduces this risk. Prices might be ridiculously low, or goods might be advertised with amazing benefits or features that aren’t reflected in the price of the product. Remember if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Do your research, check prices on the websites of other stores, read reviews of products and retailers from trusted sources, and ask friends and family. Mrs D’Ath said Queensland shoppers should ensure they check the website is secure before they make any payments. Look for the ‘HTTPS’ or a padlock icon in the address bar, she said. Consumers have the same rights and protections under the Australian Consumer Law, whether they are buying online or instore. Consumers should always read the terms and conditions and check delivery times as you wouldn’t want mum’s gift arriving late. If you think you’re being scammed, contact the Office of Fair Trading. For more information about online shopping safety, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/law/fair-tradingor phone 13 QGOV (13 74 68). See more

11.01.2022 COLES' FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN SUPPORTS AUSSIE SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN Coles has launched a fundraising campaign in the lead up to Anzac Day to enable Bravery Trust to support Aussie service men and women who have an injury or illness as a result of their service. From now until stores close on Sunday, 26 April, Coles will donate 50 cents from every pack of Coles Bakery branded cookies or biscuits sold at Coles to the Bravery Trust. Customers are also welcome to make their own don...ations in-store at the checkout. Bravery Trust provides financial support to more than 800 veterans and around 3,000 family members of veterans each year to help them with medical fees, food vouchers, energy bills and education costs. Coles Group CEO Steven Cain said Coles was delighted to partner with Bravery Trust to support current and former members of the Australian Defence Force facing hardship. Bravery Trust CEO Belinda Wilson welcomed the support from Coles and its customers in the lead up to Anzac Day. We’re extremely happy to be partnering with Coles in the lead up to Anzac Day to support those who are serving and have served our country, and are now doing it tough, especially during these uncertain times, she said. Coles is urging customers to plan their shopping trip to take note of changes to opening hours around the Anzac Day weekend, to help maintain social distancing and ensure a safe experience for all customers and team members. Trading hours vary according to state legislation. Customers can check their local store’s trading hours via www.coles.com.au. See more

11.01.2022 TUGUN BYPASS TUNNEL MAINTENANCE ON TUESDAY Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on the Pacific Motorway for essential maintenance work to be carried out at the Tugun Bypass Tunnel. To reduce impacts to motorists, the northbound and southbound lanes of the tunnel will be closed between 7pm and 5am next Tuesday.. All traffic will be diverted onto the Gold Coast Highway and Stewart Road, with motorists advised to allow up to 10 minutes additional travel time.... The tunnel will remain fully operational during the day. Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control. Routine maintenance of the tunnel is carried out every three months and involves a range of measures such as inspecting the various operating and safety systems. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while this essential maintenance work is carried out. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701. See more

11.01.2022 POLICE INVESTIGATE BROADBEACH ACCIDENT Police are investigating the circumstances of a serious traffic crash at Broadbeach Waters Friday morning. Police were called to a truck and motorbike collision at the intersection of Rio Vista Boulevard and Kalimna Drive around 8:45am. The motorcyclist, a 31-year-old man, was transported to Gold Coast University Hospital in a serious condition. Officers from the Forensic Crash Unit are investigating.... If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

10.01.2022 MAN CHARGED OVER ALLEGED HIT AND RUN Police have charged a 21-year-old Burleigh Heads man over an alleged hit and run incident that injured a police officer in March this year. Around 11am Tuesday police observed a Ford Falcon on Queen Street, Southport, that was wanted in connection to the alleged hit and run incident. The car was allegedly bearing false number plates. The vehicle turned into a mechanical business on Ferry Road at Southport where police arrested the man wit...hout incident. He has been charged with one count each of failing to stop at an incident, failing to comply with requirement to stop a private vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle, driving with false number plates, driving an unregistered vehicle and driving while unlicensed. The man was bailed and will appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on August 17. The arrest relates to an incident on March 28, where it is alleged police attended a service station on Olsen Road when they noticed a group of people allegedly behaving suspiciously inside a parked car. A 48-year-old male senior constable approached the vehicle to investigate the suspicious activity between the five occupants when the driver allegedly reversed into the officer. The silver Ford Falcon then allegedly failed to stop and left the service station. The officer was knocked to the ground, hitting his head. He was conveyed to hospital for treatment of minor injuries and has since made a full recovery. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

10.01.2022 POLICE SEEK PUBLIC HELP AFTER OFFICER INJURED AT SOUTHPORT Detectives are appealing for information after a police officer was injured at Southport Sunday night. Just after 11:30pm, police attended a service station on Olsen Road when they noticed a group of people behaving suspiciously inside a parked car. A 48-year-old male senior constable has approached the vehicle to investigate the suspicious activity between the five occupants when the driver reversed into the officer.... He was knocked to the ground, hitting his head. The officer was conveyed to hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The silver Ford Falcon failed to stop and left the service station along Olsen Avenue. Anyone who has information on the silver Ford Falcon, bearing false Queensland registration plates 268 GYZ, is urged to contact police. If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day. See more

07.01.2022 DRIVING TESTS TO RESUME Queensland’s learner drivers will soon be able to sit for their P-plates again with practical driving tests to resume on June 15. Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said with coronavirus restrictions easing and Queenslanders smashing the curve, transport authorities have begun preparing for the return of driving tests with new measures in place to ensure examiners and learner drivers are safe. The approved COVID-safe plan includes mandatory ...screening questions, vehicle cleaning requirements and reinforcement of general health and hygiene measures. Heavy vehicle driving tests resumed last week and with Queensland being among the best-performing states in stopping the spread of COVID-19, light vehicle tests will recommence on June 15 to support jobs and keep our economy moving, Mr Bailey said. New driving examiners are being brought on board and tests will be conducted six days a week to help catch up on the number of learner drivers whose tests were suspended." Mr Bailey said a booking process would be introduced to prioritise learner drivers who had their tests suspended due to the pandemic, and those who urgently needed their P-plates for economic, health, and job reasons. The fee for learner licence renewals is being waived until three months after practical driving tests resume. This includes learner licences that have expired. For more information on the resumption of testing visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au See more

06.01.2022 FIVE ARRESTED OVER ALLEGED THEFT OF DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES Police have arrested five people alleged to have stolen large quantities of deep cycle batteries from Gold Coast mobile phone towers with the intent of selling them to unsuspecting consumers. Between January and May of this year, mobile phone towers for all the major telcos have been targeted by thieves looking for the batteries. Collectively the companies have reported up to $125,000 worth of batteries being taken, wit...h some of the sites allegedly raided on multiple occasions. Deep cycle batteries are mobile phone tower locations as a backup power source in the event of a mains power outage. The batteries have been advertised for sale on social media sites and primarily purchased by people living from an alternative a power source such as solar or wind, as well those wanting an extended power supply on camping trips. Following extensive investigations by detectives in the Coomera Property Team, five people were taken into custody at a Southport address where 36 deep cycle batteries were located. Items believed to be associated with a clandestine drug laboratory were also seized. A 37-year-old man has been charged with seven counts of enter premises and one count of breach of bail. A 34-year-old woman has also been charged with two counts of drug possession and one count each of enter premises and fail to dispose. Further charges are expected to be laid in coming days as the investigation progresses. Police are asking members of the community to be wary of purchasing the batteries from a second-hand source. Anyone who has recently purchased deep cycle batteries which look similar to those in the images are also urged to come forward. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

05.01.2022 POLICE SEEK PUBLIC HELP OVER CAR FIRE Gold Coast police are seeking public assistance to help find a man who was captured on CCTV footage deliberately setting fire to a vehicle in Southport. Around 10.25pm on Saturday, 9 May, an unknown offender has driven a black Holden Barina without registration plates and parked the vehicle outside a driveway on Cook Close, Southport. The offender, who was wearing a skeleton mask, exited the vehicle before emptying an accelerant to th...e inside of the car. The offender has then lit the vehicle on fire. Footage shows an initial explosion before the offender runs from the scene. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services were called to the scene and extinguished the blaze a short time later. The fire destroyed vehicle. Police are appealing for any witnesses, CCTV or access to any dash cam footage in and around the Cook Close, Everest Drive and Edmund Rice Drive area around the time of the incident. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact police. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more

04.01.2022 SANCTUARY COVE RESTAURANTS WELCOME DINERS Following Queensland’s roadmap to easing restrictions, this Saturday will see a selection of restaurants and cafes at Sanctuary Cove welcome customers back to dine in house. In line with Stage 1 of the government’s roadmap, this Saturday, Anchor Buoy, Artichoke Restaurant & Bar, Bistro 19, Dragon Cove Chinese Restaurant, Jonez on Food and Quay Street Café will all be open for customers to dine in. Sanctuary Cove in-house dining option...s for restaurants and cafes will include: Anchor Buoy open for breakfast and lunch for both bookings and walk-ins, with up to 10 guests at a time. Artichoke Restaurant & Bar reopening with a mouthwatering 6-course degustation menu available for both lunch and dinner. Two sittings are available for lunch at 11.30am and 1.45pm, with dinner sittings at 5.00pm and 7.45pm. Bookings are essential. Bistro 19 open for lunch. Bookings are essential. Dragon Cove Chinese Restaurant open for dinner only dine in and bookings are available in two sittings for 10 guests at a time at 5.30pm and 7.00pm. Bookings are essential. Jonez on Food will be open for lunch and dinner for in house dining. Two sittings will be available for 10 guests per sitting. Bookings are essential. Quay Street Café - open for breakfast and lunch for bookings and walk-ins. Restaurants and cafes will still also be open for takeaway options. See more

01.01.2022 GOLD COAST CITY ASSETS TO REOPEN Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has announced several City assets would reopen this Saturday in line with the easing of Queensland Government restrictions. We are getting back to business, but in a staged and safe way, Mayor Tate said. The following will reopen or are resuming: - Playgrounds, gym equipment, and barbecues... - Skate parks, outdoor basketball courts - Sports fields for groups of 10 or less - Park bookings (for up to 10 people) - Free tree scheme - Tourist parks for essential travellers - Parking meters will be switched on and normal enforcement will occur - Community Centres for essential services - Broadwater Parklands, is open except for the bouncy pillow He said there was still work to be done to ensure a staged opening of Aquatic Centres, Libraries and Indoor Sports centres could occur. We need to look closely at these services and the best way to reopen them for example I can see us opening Aquatic Centres to elite athletes first, he said. He said he would have further information to release next Monday. See more

01.01.2022 TRIO CHARGED OVER BOAT FIRES Police have charged three men over a number of boat fires at Hope Harbour Marina in early June this year. It is alleged around 11.15pm on June 2, a number of boats were engulfed in flames at the John Lund Drive marina. It will be alleged a number of people were seen throwing petrol onto one of the boats before setting it alight. There were five boats in total sustaining various degrees of fire and heat damage.... No one was injured during the incident. A 33-year-old man from Dugandan has been charged with three counts of arson and one count each of attempted fraud, enter premises with intent to commit an indictable offence and endanger property by fire. He is due to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on August 26. Two men aged 21 and 25 years from Fernvale have both been charged with three counts of arson and one count each of enter premises with intent to commit indicatable offence and endanger property by fire. Both men will appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on August 10. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. See more