De Bono told the seminar he did not think Surfers Paradise was a good name. Authorities have responded to the pressure. The Gold Coast City Council established the Surfers Paradise Central Management Association to boost the destination's appeal. There have been various developments, and the Asian skew, and we have lost visitation. We need to get people back into Surfers Paradise.
Reason concedes business has been tough for many operators.
There has been a state of decline over many years but we believe it has bottomed out. The ritzy Cavill Mall has been given a facelift. The council has cracked down on bothersome touts and conducted an audit of shop signs, which will lead to a reduction in Asian signs. It includes the distribution of a million magazine inserts, a lifestyle television program and outdoor advertising. However, critics say big developments presently under way will add to the clutter of high-rises and garish shops.