Tipplers Resort on South Stradbroke Island could finally have its long-awaited licensed restaurant if a development proposal is endorsed by Council on Monday (30/1).

The application for the restaurant was recommended for approval at today’s City Planning Committee meeting. It will replace the former ‘Tradewinds’ function room and bar area, and will operate from 7am to 10pm, seven days per week.

Chair of City Planning Committee, Councillor Ted Shepherd, said the restaurant would be a wonderful addition to the Tipplers Resort.

“The new restaurant will further enhance the precinct, which is already one of the most popular recreation areas on the Gold Coast for families,” he said.

“During the Christmas and New Year period, campers flocked to the resort, with visitors enjoying the new swimming enclosure and upgraded kiosk facilities,” he said.

The 294 square metre footprint for the new restaurant will be confined to the existing building, which was established in the 1960s. The 1,550 square metre ‘wet area’ at the front of the building will be retained as an outdoor seating area.

Refurbishment works proposed for the ageing building include a new kitchen and new toilets as well as new skylights, ceiling fans and floor covering. The external upgrades include new doors, louvers, a ramp, steps and cladding.

“To all intents and purposes, the new restaurant will operate in much the same way as the former function room and eatery/bar area,” Cr Shepherd said.

There were no objections to the proposal from the community.

The Tipplers eco-resort is a unique and family-friendly area set in the midst of an environmental reserve and conservation park. It is considered one of the Gold Coast’s most precious environmental assets and is home to a number of significant flora and fauna species in a relatively natural state.