Public Notice Roundup: Official Council Advisories for Tuesday, 31 March 2026

City of Gold Coast: Official Public Notice Roundup

The following notices, health advisories, and public service announcements are active for the City of Gold Coast on Tuesday, 31 March 2026. Residents and visitors are encouraged to review these official updates regarding local infrastructure, environmental programs, and community services.

Community & Culture: Storyfest 2026

The City of Gold Coast is pleased to support the annual Somerset Storyfest, which continues its week-long celebration of literature and storytelling today. A highlight for Tuesday, 31 March, is the Literary Lunch featuring acclaimed crime fiction author Nikki Mottram. This event is part of the city's commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. Attendees are reminded that while most festival sessions remain open, specific ticketing is required for the luncheon. Local traffic around the Broadbeach cultural precinct may be slightly higher than usual; please plan your travel accordingly.

Environmental Update: Dune Shield Drone Trials

As part of the City’s ongoing Beaches Restoration Program, Phase 2 of the 'Dune Shield' initiative is currently active. Throughout the week of 30 March to 3 April, residents may notice low-flying specialized drones operating over coastal dunes at Currumbin, Palm Beach South, and Tallebudgera. These drones are being utilized for precision seeding and vegetation mapping to strengthen the coastline’s natural defenses against erosion. Beach access remains fully open to the public; however, beachgoers are requested to maintain a safe distance from active drone operators and marked trial sites. These works are essential following the long-term recovery efforts initiated after the significant impacts of previous seasonal storm surges.

Infrastructure: Light Rail Stage 3 Commissioning

The Department of Transport and Main Roads, in partnership with the City of Gold Coast, advises that testing and commissioning activities for the Light Rail Stage 3 extension (Broadbeach South to Burleigh Heads) are continuing this week. During the night of 31 March, residents along the Gold Coast Highway may observe trams operating outside of standard service hours as part of critical systems integration. These tests ensure the safety and reliability of the network ahead of the anticipated opening for passenger services in mid-2026. Motorists and pedestrians are reminded to remain vigilant and obey all new signalized crossings and signage throughout the corridor.

Public Safety: Coastal Access and Restoration

Recovery works related to the 2025 Tropical Cyclone Alfred Environmental Recovery Package remain ongoing across southern Gold Coast beaches. While 28 local beaches are now fully open, some temporary fencing remains in place at Hollindale Park and Surfers Paradise South to allow for natural dune recovery and the establishment of new fencing. New permanent stair access at Lifeguard Tower 38 is now functional. The City continues to monitor water quality and sand scarping; visitors are urged to only swim in patrolled areas indicated by red and yellow flags.

Council Governance

Following the Special Budget Meeting held on Monday, 30 March, the City of Gold Coast reminds residents that the next Full Council Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 2 April 2026, at the Civic Chamber in Bundall. Agendas and minutes for the recent Special Budget session are available for public inspection via the City’s online portal.