An historical perspective
The enviable economic, social and cultural position of the Gold Coast has grown out of a magnificent and ancient history.
The original footprints of the Gold Coast’s indigenous people were laid more than 6000 years ago, fortunately this heritage can still be appreciated through an exploration of this diverse region.
The Kombumerri people once feasted at Burleigh Heads, the Yugambeh people lived in Mt Cougal and Springbrook’s many valleys, while aboriginals universally travelled through the Numinbah Valley when attending regular gatherings.
Nightcap National Park is the base for the Bundjalung nation which posses many traditional sacred sites that continue to remain places of historic significance for the Gold Coast.
White settlement came through the establishment of cattle stations during the 1860’s, which would later be transformed into smaller sugar, cotton and dairy farms.
The next 100 years gave rise to timber milling out of the hinterland, plus successful produce farming in avocado and bananas, before the benefits of sea bathing were embraced by Brisbane residents and cultivated into the very fabric of Gold Coast living.
Through World War II the region was a base for US and Australian servicemen and post war brought about the first major real estate boom.
It was the ongoing evolution of Australia’s beach-going culture complemented by the many other natural wonders of the outlying hinterland that promoted even further growth throughout the region.
The modern day incarnation of the Gold Coast has been enriched by the many untouched, natural wonders of this most pristine part of the World, coupled with famous man made attractions, a metropolitan culture and so much more.
For more information: www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au