The destination for ICCCF 2017 is Gold Coast, Australia. With mild weather in July, it is the perfect time to bring your family to enjoy the beach and the sub-tropical forest in Gold Coast.
Passports and Visas
All visitors entering Australia need a valid passport and an Australian visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) if not an Australian citizen.
The type of visa required will depend on the length of stay and purpose of visit. A business visa will usually serve those planning to visit Australia for a business event. The type of passport the applicant holds determines whether that applicant can apply online or by using a paper-based application.
Applicants who are eligible to apply online can usually apply for an eVisitor (Business Stream) visa.
If you do not hold a passport approved for online application, ‘label’ visas can be obtained from Australian embassies, high commission offices or consulates.
Assistance is available to organisers through the Event Coordinators Network at the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs. For further information visit immi.gov.au
Duty Free and Customs
All goods and services purchased in Australia are subject to a 10 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST). Travellers may be eligible for a refund of the GST on departure, through the Tourist Refund Scheme.
Incoming visitors may bring in limited quantities of duty free alcohol, tobacco and other goods. Permits are available for business travellers carrying commercial goods, such as samples, display items for international exhibitions and professional film and television equipment.
Australian Customs enforces strict controls on the import of food, plant and animal products to prevent the introduction of exotic pests and disease. Travellers are asked to respect these requirements in order to ensure that Australia’s unique wildlife, plants and primary industries are protected. For further information visit customs.gov.au
Getting to Gold Coast
Gold Coast is serviced by two major airports: Gold Coast Airport is located 30 minutes from the city centre and offers extensive domestic and international services.
Brisbane Domestic and International Airport is less than one hour’s drive north from the city. The airport opens 24 hours a day with more than 3,500 direct international flights per week.
Airport Transfers
Trains
Airtrain transports passengers to and from the Brisbane Domestic and International Airport to four Gold Coast stations: Helensvale, Nerang, Robina and Varsity Lakes. The train runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. Click here to find out timetable and fare information.
Bus
Translink operates a 24 hour public bus service on the Gold Coast which includes routes from Gold Coast Airport along the Gold Coast Highway. The Gold Coast Tourist Bus offers transfers between hotels and the Gold Coast Airport and return transfers to theme parks. For further information visit surfside.com.au or translink.com.au
Taxi and rental cars are also available
ABAA Car Rentals +61 7 5599 5335 abaacarrentals.com.au
Avis Car Rental +61 7 5536 3511 avis.com.au
Gold Coast Cabs 131 008 gccabs.com.au
Thrifty Car Rental +61 7 5570 9999 rentthrifty.com
Getting Around
Light Rail
The Gold Coast light rail connects the Gold Coast University Hospital and Griffith University to the fast growing commercial, retail and recreational centres of Southport, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Trams run every 7.5 minutes from 7am to 7pm on weekdays between the 16 stations. For further information visit ridetheg.com.au
Trains
The Gold Coast train line runs down the city’s western side. Each of the six main stations are less than 20 minutes to the heart of the city. The line is linked up to the much larger Queensland Rail network and is part of the South East rail line.
Download SE Queensland Train Network Map here.
Climate
Gold Coast has a mild sub-tropical climate that features an estimated 8 hours of sunshine, 300 days a year. July is the winter time and average temperature between 11-21oC (52-70oF). Check out weather forecast.
Currency
The currency is the Australian Dollar. Currency exchange facilities are available at all international airports and key tourist centres such as Surfers Paradise. Travellers’ cheques can also be cashed at banks and major hotels. ATMs are widely available. Major credit cards are accepted at most shops, hotels and restaurants with American Express, MasterCard and Visa the most common. Banks are open from 9.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday and from 9.30am to 5.00pm on Friday. Bureau de Change facilities have more flexible hours and are generally open at night and on weekends.