Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones has today announced a new world-class event originally intended to be held at Coolangatta Beach would instead be held at Metricon Stadium.
Ms Jones said SandTunes music festival would be held at Metricon Stadium in Carrara in November.
The Minister said she approached promoter TEG Dainty to change the venue after she was approached by Assistant Tourism Minister and Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon.
"This is one of the best line-ups that's been assembled in Australia in recent history. It will bring thousands of tourists to the Gold Coast and pump millions into the economy," she said.
"I understand there has been some concern on the southern Gold Coast about whether Coolangatta should host this event. Meaghan approached me about moving the festival to Carrara last week and the promoter was supportive.
"We're committed to delivering world class events that support local jobs and grow the tourism industry. SandTunes will achieve just that."
Today's announcement comes after economic modelling revealed SandTunes would generate more than $10 million and bring an extra 35,000 people to Carrara.
The SandTunes talent lineup boasts the best line-up of 2019 including Travis Scott, Dean Lewis, Juice Wrld, Carly Rae Jepsen, Chvrches and a host of leading domestic and international acts.
Assistant Tourism Minister and Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said the government had worked hard through Tourism and Events Queensland to secure SandTunes.
"There's been vocal opposition from people trying to ruin this event for the Coast, including the retiring Member for Currumbin Jann Stuckey," she said.
"The bottom line - this event will support local jobs and pump millions back into our economy. Jann doesn't want it in her electorate but I certainly want it in mine.
"I made representations to the Minister to bring SandTunest to Metricon Stadium in Carrara. This venue is perfect for a large-scale music event.
"The talent line-up for SandTunes is world class. To be able to see some of the best acts on the planet here on the Coast is a great win for locals."
