The Transformation of the Gold Coast: From a Coastal Resort to a Thriving City

The Gold Coast, a jewel on the Australian east coast, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. Initially known as the 'South Coast' due to its location 70 kilometers south of Brisbane, this region has evolved into Australia's sixth-largest city. This evolving journey is a fascinating story of changing demographics, infrastructure development, and the impact of socio-economic factors.

Europeans Settle the South Coast

The early settlement of the Gold Coast began in the 1870s when Europeans established small towns and hamlets, primarily for dairy farming, sugar cane plantations, and hinterland timber extraction. The towns of Southport, Coolangatta, Nerang, and West Burleigh were connected to South Brisbane by railway in the 1880s, commencing a holiday trend for Brisbane residents fleeing the summer heat. This rail connection made the South Coast a popular destination for honeymooners, surfers, and school holiday trips.

Making the Gold Coast Accessible

The post-World War II era saw an increase in car ownership, making the South Coast easily accessible to Brisbane residents. The old rail lines connecting the South Coast to Brisbane were closed and replaced with highways such as the M1. This development paved the way for the construction of American-style drive-in motels, which became a standard fixture along the coast. New concrete bridges also facilitated the connection of creeks and rivers, ensuring a continuous highway system across the entire coastal strip.

The White Shoe Brigade Era

During the 1970s and 1980s, under the pro-development policies of the Bjelke-Petersen Liberal/National coalition government, the South Coast experienced a surge in development. The government abolished death duties, setting the stage for a booming real estate market. High-rise units surged in popularity, catering to retirees from across Australia. This period, known as the 'white shoe brigade' era, saw the construction of numerous high-rise apartment buildings and canal estates, complete with exotic names like "Miami" and "Palm Beach", reflecting the South Coast's evolving identity.

Uphill Battles and Suburban Expansion

Although the government's pro-development policies were aimed at stimulating growth, smaller town councils faced challenges. Towns like Southport, Coolangatta, and Nerang amalgamated into a larger Gold Coast Local Government Area (LGA) by the 1990s, under the name Gold Coast City Council (GCCC). GCCC covers an extensive area from Coolangatta at the NSW border to Pimpama/Yatala at the Greater Brisbane/Logan green belt border. The council also expanded west to Canungra, furthering the Gold Coast's reputation as a vibrant and expansive metropolis.

Modern Developments and Futures

While the Gold Coast's transformation was marked by significant development, it was not without its challenges. However, the region has continued to evolve with new infrastructure projects. In 2018, the Gold Coast hosted the Commonwealth Games, showcasing the city's facilities and spirit. The introduction of a light rail connecting the coast to the Brisbane Airport train at inland Helensvale has made the Gold Coast more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors alike.

Higher education has also taken root in the Gold Coast, with three universities now represented in the area. The largest of these, Griffith University, incorporates a teaching hospital, adding to the city's educational landscape. Additionally, the Gold Coast City Council has established a new $60 million art gallery, HOTA Gallery, to complement the existing arts centre built in the 1980s. HOTA Gallery will host its first international exhibition in 2023 from the Magrabi collection in New York, further cementing the city's position as a cultural hub.

No longer a mere tourist strip, the Gold Coast has evolved into a comprehensive leisure and lifestyle city. Its transformation over the years reflects Australia's changing demographics and economic landscape. The Gold Coast's resilience and forward-thinking approach have made it a global destination, attracting residents, students, and tourists from across the world.