Public Notice: Major Rail Disruptions and Community Health Alerts

Official City Notices: Saturday, 14 March 2026

The City of Gold Coast and regional authorities have issued the following public service announcements and official notices active for Saturday, 14 March 2026. Residents and visitors are advised to review these updates to prepare for significant transport disruptions and ongoing health advisories.

Major Transport and Rail Disruptions

Commuters are alerted to a major weekend track closure on the Gold Coast Line scheduled for Saturday, 14 March and Sunday, 15 March 2026. Essential maintenance and infrastructure upgrades mean that all train services will be suspended between Beenleigh and Varsity Lakes stations. Rail replacement buses will be operating in both directions for the duration of the weekend. Passengers should allow for significantly increased travel times and check the Translink journey planner for updated bus stop locations and schedules.

In addition to rail works, significant road construction continues across the city:

• Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3: The Gold Coast Highway remains restricted to a single lane in both directions between Dawn Parade in Miami and George Street East in Burleigh Heads. A strictly enforced 40km/h speed limit is in effect. Several bus stops, including those in Miami and Burleigh Heads, remain closed or relocated.
• Coomera Connector (Stage 1): The bridge overpass at Ridgevale Drive is fully closed for the 2026 bridge replacement program. Motorists must follow posted detours via the Smith Street Motorway.
• Hinterland Roadworks: Reconstruction and landslip remediation are ongoing at 28 sites along Gold Coast-Springbrook Road. Expect stop/slow traffic control between Neranwood and Pine Creek Road.

Public Health and Environmental Advisories

Gold Coast Health has issued a reminder that both Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Measles are currently circulating within the community. Residents are urged to ensure all vaccinations and boosters are up to date. If you or family members experience symptoms such as a high fever, a persistent cough, or a red spotty rash, please contact 13-HEALTH or your GP for advice before attending a clinic in person.

Following recent heavy rainfall, the City has intensified its mosquito management operations. Specialized teams are treating salt marsh environments and low-lying habitats. Property owners are requested to assist by eliminating any standing water in containers, gutters, or pot plant saucers to mitigate breeding risks.

Community Consultation and Facility Updates

Residents are reminded that the formal feedback period for the 2026 Animal Control Area Register is drawing to a close. This review will designate new dog off-leash zones and animal-prohibited areas across the city. Submissions must be received through the City’s consultation portal by Monday, 16 March 2026.

In Southport and Tugun, public notification periods remain active for several Material Change of Use applications. Specifically, submissions regarding a three-unit dwelling development at 14 Kallara Street, Tugun (MCU/2025/530), are being accepted through 23 March 2026.

Regarding public spaces, Elanora Linkage Park remains fully closed to the public as crews continue critical landslip repairs and stormwater infrastructure upgrades. These works are expected to continue through mid-year.