One year on from the opening of G:Link, the national peak body for tourism, transport and aviation is calling on the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments to extend the Gold Coast light rail network in time for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Tourism & Transport Forum Australia (TTF) CEO Margy Osmond said a decision on the G:Link extension would need to be made within weeks for it to be running in time for the major international event.

“Time is running out. If a decision on the extension isn’t made soon, Queensland will miss an opportunity to have a crucial piece of tourism infrastructure in place at a time when it hosting one of the biggest events in the State’s history,” Ms Osmond said.

“The Queensland and Commonwealth Governments need to get together and make a decision on this extension as a matter of priority.

“Since opening, the G:Link light rail network has been incredibly popular with locals, with more than six million passengers in the first year – well beyond pre-patronage forecasts.

“The light rail has also significantly enhanced the visitor experience on the Gold Coast.

“We believe the line should now be extended from the Gold Coast University Hospital to connect with heavy rail at Helensvale in time for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

“This will provide a rail/light rail link between Brisbane and Surfers Paradise and dramatically improve travel between the two cities, making it easier for spectators and locals to move around.

“Investing in this key piece of infrastructure would also ensure the Games leave a lasting legacy for the Queensland visitor economy.

“The eyes of the world will be on the Gold Coast during the Commonwealth Games, with hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to attend.

“This is the perfect chance to show the world why the Gold Coast is such a fantastic place to live, work and play,” she said.