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Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for anyone seeking to operate the new café at the iconic lighthouse at Point Danger.
Straddling the NSW and Queensland border, the Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tweed/Gold Coast coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Tweed Shire Council’s Acting Director of Engineering Tim Mackney said the landmark site was a treasure of the region, drawing visitors from far and wide.
“We are excited to welcome visionary organisations to express their interest in becoming the steward of this important community asset,” Mr Mackney said.
“The Point Danger lighthouse, which is currently undergoing a significant upgrade, presents an unparalleled opportunity for enthusiastic entrepreneurs and established café operators to become an integral part of this historic site's future.”
The lighthouse was built in 1971 as a joint project between City of Gold Coast, Tweed Shire Council and the Commonwealth Government to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the voyage along the east coast of Australia by Captain James Cook. The building was extended in 1990 to accommodate the Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW service.
The site also has significant cultural heritage for the First Nations people of the region, with renowned local Bundjalung/Yugambeh artist Christine Slabb engaged to provide Indigenous storyboards and artworks for the facility.
New public toilets and a gallery in the café area will be added as part of the upgrade.
Mr Mackney said the upgrade would significantly enhance the site’s appeal, with a café at this iconic location promising to be a destination that combines history, culture and breathtaking scenery.
“The EOI process provides an opportunity for forward-thinking organisations to propose innovative ideas for the café’s operation, ensuring it becomes a vibrant and sustainable part of our community,” he said.
“We are seeking a partner who shares our vision for this unique space, someone who can offer exceptional service, quality cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the warmth of our community.”
The contract for the café presents a chance for entrepreneurs to not only operate a successful business but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of the area’s cultural heritage. The EOI process will allow interested parties to outline their concept for the café, showcasing their vision for an enticing dining experience that complements the site’s historical significance.
“We encourage all organisations with a passion for hospitality and an appreciation for our local history to consider this exciting opportunity,” Mr Mackney said.
“Together, we can create a vibrant café experience that complements the magic of this site.”
Council's website provides detailed information on the EOI process, including submission requirements and evaluation criteria. The deadline for submitting expressions of interest is 12 noon on Wednesday 20 September 2023.
For more information and to access the EOI documentation, please visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/tenders-contracts.
The lighthouse upgrade is expected to be completed by December 2023, weather permitting. Construction updates can be found at yoursaytweed.com.au/captain-cook-memorial, allowing interested parties to stay informed about the progress of this exciting project.
The upgrade project is made possible through the generous support of funding partners, including:
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NSW Government’s Cross Border Commissioner’s Infrastructure Fund ($2,023,449)
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NSW Government’s Restart NSW Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund ($798,000)
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NSW Office of Environment and Heritage ($50,000)
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Joint funding from the City of Gold Coast ($1,950,000) and Tweed Shire Council ($1,264,000).
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