City Libraries, City of Gold Coast

Portrait of Denis Pie, Mayor of the Gold Coast City Council, Queensland, from 1985-1988

Portrait of Denis Pie, Mayor of the Gold Coast City Council, Queensland, from 1985-1988

Denis Pie was the seventh mayor of the Gold Coast Council since Len Peak in 1949. He was elected in 1985 and held office for only one term, until 1988. Born in Brisbane in 1931, to a well-known Queensland family, with interests in textiles. Completed a 3-year course in textiles, followed by accountancy. Became a cost accountant specialising in industry. Completed a property valuation course and became involved in property consultancy, using his accountancy skills. Became involved in the Gold Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau when it was on the brink of insolvency, and saved it from bankruptcy. Stood for the office of Mayor in the 1985 Gold Coast City elections, and was elected by popular vote. His success was remarkable as he had no previous council experience. He inherited the Gold Coast Cultural Centre project at Evandale, which had been approved before he came to office. The construction costs involved caused a substantial rates increase, and he showed great initiative in trying to reduce the cost to ratepayers by initiating a fundraising campaign with the personal donation of $1000. (Information taken from: Gold Coast City: your council and community services guide, pp. 13-15)