From 6am on Sunday morning, the first passengers will board a tram service from Burleigh Heads, marking a major transport milestone for the Gold Coast.
The opening of Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 extends the G:link network by 6.7 kilometres and adds eight new stations.
This extension means connecting more communities along the line to jobs, education, healthcare, entertainment and some of the Gold Coast's most popular destinations.
For the first time, residents and visitors can travel by tram from Burleigh Heads through Miami, Nobby Beach and Mermaid Beach to Broadbeach and beyond, making it easier than ever to enjoy the Gold Coast's beaches, hospitality precincts, shopping destinations and local attractions.
The new stations at Mermaid Beach, Mermaid Beach South, Nobby Beach, Miami North, Miami, Christine Avenue, Second Avenue and Burleigh Heads will make catching public transport easier than ever before.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“Today is about delivering the infrastructure that the growing community of the Gold Coast needs and ensuring that its residents and visitors have greater transport choices for years to come.
“The Albanese Government is proud to partner with the Crisafulli Government and the City of Gold Coast on a project that will strengthen transport connectivity, support local businesses and help keep the Gold Coast moving.”
Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg:
“Today is a historic day for the Gold Coast, with passengers now able to board a tram from Burleigh Heads for the very first time.
“The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job of delivering the transport infrastructure growing communities need, and this project will benefit residents, businesses and visitors for decades to come.
“Combined with the Crisafulli Government's permanent 50 cent fares, there has never been a better time to leave the car at home and experience everything this world-class public transport network has to offer.”
Quotes attributable to Senator Murray Watt:
“This first journey on Sunday is the culmination of many years of work by all levels of government, and thousands of workers, and it’s fantastic to see it come to life.
“Light rail has transformed the Gold Coast and it is critical to support the city's rapid growth over the next two decades.
“Stage 3 will significantly increase connectivity to the city’s most popular destinations, helping Gold Coasters and visitors alike to live, work and play more easily and more affordably.”
Quotes attributable to State Member for Burleigh Hermann Vorster:
“For the first time, locals and visitors can travel directly to key destinations by tram, connecting one of Queensland's most iconic beach destinations with the broader Gold Coast network.
“This investment will support local jobs, local businesses and tourism operators while giving people a safe, convenient and affordable way to get around.”
Quotes attributable to Mayor of the Gold Coast Tom Tate:
“The completion of the next stage of the Gold Coast's incredibly popular light rail system is a huge milestone for our growing city.
“Gold Coasters and visitors will now have a seamless ride from Helensvale to Burleigh, a big win for locals, businesses and visitors.
“I am sure this will be the most popular of all. All aboard.”