Shaping the Horizon: The Future of Gold Coast Property

WORDS: Gabrielle Kenworthy PHOTOGRAPHY Brian Usher - www.usherusher.com

Insights and Innovations from the Around the Table Property Forum

The Ocean Road Around the Table Property Forum recently welcomed key figures from the property industry. Against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views at the RACV Royal Pines Resort, the event provided an afternoon of fine dining, stunning vistas, and engaging discussions. These conversations delved into the urgent challenges and exciting opportunities shaping the future of the Gold Coast property market.

The Menu

 

Entrée

Spanner crab, green apple, and seaside herbs served on a sourdough crumpet Paired with Tasmanian Mumm Sparkling

 

Main

King quail dolmade, smoked eggplant butter, KFG, grilled fig served with bitter leaves salad Paired with  PHI Grenache Amphora, Heathcote, VIC

Dessert

Macadamia nougat frozen custard, berries of the season, wattle seed sabayon Paired with Vinoque Aromatic Riesling, Yarra Valley, VIC

 

The Hosts

Brian Usher – Publisher, Ocean Road Magazine

Steve Hunt – CEO, Media Hunt Communications

 

The Guests

Jarrod Bleijie – Queensland Deputy Leader of the Oppositio

Mark Hammel

Chair of the Planning & Environment Committee for the Gold Coast City Council

Patrick Hefferan

Planning Director, Urbis

Damian Dove

5Point Projects

Matt George

Director, Urban Activation

Robert Badalotti

CEO, Azzura Investments Limited

Jason Paris

Raine & Horne

Kevin Zhang

MRCB

Han Chia

MRCB

Gary Thompson

Toto & Co

Tennille Pratt

Urban.com.au

Tom Ogilvie

Coposit

Meka Valmadre

Coposit

The Venue:

Perched atop the 21st floor of the esteemed RACV Royal Pines Resort, our forum discussions unfolded in the exclusive confines of Videre Restaurant’s private dining area, treating our guests to some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Gold Coast.

RACV Royal Pines Resort is a leader in the Australian conferencing and event market. After embarking on ambitious renovation project including a rejuvenation of their accommodation spaces, an upgrade to the Kalinda restaurant and elevated executive lounge, the resort has recently unveiled the largest hotel LED screen in the Southern Hemisphere, measuring 24 metres long in the Royal Benowa Ballroom.

The multi-million-dollar investment in this immersive technology is complemented by additional major audio-visual system extensions, including motorised production cameras, stage and studio lighting, upgraded distributed audio system, laser projectors and mobile staging solutions. There is also improved outdoor lighting and wheelchair and limited mobility access at the venue.

The transformation doesn’t stop here, as the beloved Italian eatery, Trattoria Amici, and the Japanese-inspired dining destination, Arakawa, are next in line for a stylish makeover.

RACV Royal Pines Resort Manager Martin Zumstein said the upgrades and additions have taken an already impressive conference and events venue to an exciting new level.

 

The Conversation

The discussion was initiated by Steve Hunt, CEO of Media Hunt Communications, alongside Jarrod Bleijie, Queensland’s Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Mark Hammel, Chair of the Planning & Environment Committee at the Gold Coast City Council, and Patrick Hefferan, Director of Urbis, who participated as keynote speakers.

Their conversation centred on the evident disconnect between state and local governments, emphasising the imperative need for improvement. They highlighted the necessity for coordination among pertinent departments such as planning, agriculture, and housing to address approval-related issues, thereby mitigating delays and streamlining development projects.

 

Mark Hammel, Chair of the Planning & Environment Committee at the Gold Coast City Council, voiced concerns regarding the insufficient understanding within planning committees regarding the financial burdens endured by developers in terms of holding costs. He mentioned ongoing initiatives to reevaluate the existing funding framework to ensure more accessible approvals in the future.

Jarrod Bleijie, Queensland’s Deputy Leader of the Opposition, stressed the importance of fostering significant dialogues between stakeholders and local government. He highlighted the necessity of reducing regulatory constraints in the real estate sector, advocating for streamlined approval processes and the removal of bureaucratic hurdles.

The discussion also delved into the topic of dwelling supply and housing affordability, with Mr Hammel addressing the impact of the lack of new developments approved in the region on Gold Coast residents and the wider community’s financial implications.

Patrick Hefferan, Director of Urbis, underscored the importance of acknowledging the town’s rich historical background while collectively charting a path forward. He emphasised the need for innovation in delivering housing density, advocating for creative approaches in both product development and design. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity for cross-industry collaboration, involving sectors such as tourism, education, and health, to achieve common objectives.

The Around the Table Property Forum transcends mere gathering; it stands as a convergence of thought leaders and visionaries within the property industry. It serves as a celebration of collaboration, where innovative minds unite to navigate the path forward for Queensland’s property market.

This dialogue promises a lasting influence, igniting fresh ideas and driving essential advancements for the dynamic property market of the vibrant Gold Coast and southeast Queensland.