Just recently, I happily got up early on a Sunday morning so as I could be amongst the first influx of people to ride the new extension of the Gold Coast Light Rail system. We have been using the light rail since it first opened and find getting around the Gold Coast on the G – as it is known – so easy. The new extension to Helensvale will make this even easier for visitors and locals alike.
HISTORY
The first stage of the Gold Coast Light Rail opened in July 2014, operating between Broadbeach and the Gold Coast University Hospital. With the Gold Coast set to host the Commonwealth Games in April 2018, the decision was made to extend the light rail service from the Gold Coast University Hospital to Helensvale Rail Station. The 7.3 kilometre extension has been finished ahead of schedule and officially opened to the public on 17th December.
WHY GETTING AROUND THE GOLD COAST ON THE G IS SO EASY
For us, the G is fast, efficient and above all else, cost effective. For anyone who is travelling, they will understand the importance of saving a dollar or two where they can. Parking costs in places like Surfers Paradise are astronomical. Plus most spots have time limits on them so you have to move your car every two hours. That’s if you can find somewhere to park in the first place.
Travel on the G is the same price as travel on other forms of public transport and is based on how many zones you travel through. If you have a Go Card travel is cheaper. Travel through one zone during peak hour will cost $3.20. A Go Card can be purchased at any railway station as well as retailers throughout the city. It really is the easiest way to utilise public transport especially if you are visiting for any length of time.
The interior of the trams is comfortable, with large windows and plenty of seating. The staff that I have encountered have always been friendly and helpful.
The tram carriages are spacious and comfortable to ride in.
WHERE CAN YOU GET TO ON THE ‘G’
There are 19 stations along the ‘G’ link route, with the northern most stop being Helensvale and the southern most stop being Broadbeach South.
Broadbeach South is located right at the front of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre. Pacific Fair has recently undergone a complete makeover. It is now your one-stop spot for shopping, dining or movies.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is the southern most stop for the Gold Coast G-link trams.
Just one more stop north you will find The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and also The Star Gold Coast. Our very own Casino offers everything from fine to casual dining, as well as entertainment and of course gaming. The Star is also undergoing a makeover and is looking bigger and brighter than ever before.
Continuing north you will find yourself in the heart of Surfers Paradise. We still love heading into Surfers for dinner or just to walk around and enjoy the beach or the markets.
From Surfers, your next few stops are Cypress Avenue where you will find the Sling Shot and Vomatron amusement rides or continue on for Broadwater Parklands and Australia Fair Shopping Centre after you have crossed over the beautiful Broadwater.
This is the view of the Broadwater as you cross the Sundale Bridge
NIGHTQUARTER MARKETS
If you are staying in Surfers and want to do something different I can highly recommend the Nightquarter Markets at Helensvale. Entry is just $3.00. It is one of the best places that I know of on the Coast for food and entertainment. There is always live, free music and the most amazing array of food stalls. You can pretty much find any type of cuisine that you can think of.
It is open every Friday and Saturday night but also some Thursday’s and Sunday’s, especially during holidays.
You can ride the ‘G’ right to Helensvale’s Nightquarter markets.
We love the fact that getting around the Gold Coast on the G is now even easier and we think you will too.
Have you ridden the G yet?
USEFUL LINKS
Ride the ‘G’ – Tram Information
Thanks for the info I wasn’t even aware of the Gold Coast Light Rail. It’s been a while since we have been to the Gold Coast but will be there in a couple of months. Will definitely check it out during our stay.
It really is a great way to get around Rosalind. We are only 5 minutes from Helensvale station so very convenient!