SURFERS TRADERS 'GUIDED' THROUGH TRANSIT WORKS

GOLD Coast City Council and Surfers Paradise Alliance (SPA) today launched a new initiative to support businesses during construction of the $1 billion Gold Coast Rapid Transit project.

The Wayfinders program will invite up to 100 volunteers to be crowned as ambassadors and assist businesses along with their customers.

SPA chair Laura Younger says ambassadors will help reduce the economic burden of works that begin in April 2012.

“We understand that this is a trying time for all businesses in the precinct and we will be on the front-foot to help them anyway we can,” she says.

“Surfers Paradise is undergoing an exciting yet large scale improvement program and the light rail will be of enormous economic and social benefit to Surfers Paradise – and the entire Gold Coast.”

Wayfinders will welcome visitors and inform them of businesses in the area, their locations and provide a friendly and informative point of contact.

“This initiative will help to support traders and minimise the inconvenience associated with a project of this magnitude,” says SPA CEO Mike Winlaw.

“We understand there will be access restrictions during the construction phase and we want to ensure minimum impact for our traders and residents.”

Seven wayfinders will work one of two shifts (10am-2pm and 3-7pm) under the direction of a team supervisor. They will wear a signature pink t-shirt and cap and man promotional booths.

The initiative is supported by Volunteering Gold Coast (VGC) and division seven councillor and mayoral candidate Susie Douglas (pictured in centre courtesy of MyGC.com).

Prospective Wayfinders should register their interest with VGC.

“We are seeking people with bright personalities and a passion for the precinct. Wayfinder volunteers should be available for a minimum four hours per week and there are also weekend positions to be filled,” says Winlaw.

“While no experience is necessary, a bright and cheery attitude is a must and our Wayfinders must be active as they will be on their feet for four hours at a time.”