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Find Your Perspective
There's a rumour that we're not a very "artsy" place. Good thing it's just a rumour. Galleries, theatre groups, nostalgia museums, sculpture festivals and indigenous performances just brush the surface of a cultural canvas that goes far deeper. As they say - art is purely a matter of perspective after all. Looking for more inspiration? Check out the cultural highlights of the Gold Coast hinterland.
arts & culture
- Free Event
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From now until 13 May 2026
Michael
MichaelMichael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins. Michael stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut.Country Of Origin: USA & UK.
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From now until 13 May 2026
The Devil Wears Prada 2
The Devil Wears Prada 2Miranda Priestly struggles against Emily Charlton, her former assistant turned rival executive, as they compete for advertising revenue amid declining print media, while Miranda nears retirement.Country Of Origin: USA
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From now until 30 May 2026
Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life
Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of LifePhotographs by Luigi Spina. The European Union presents Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life – a breathtaking exhibition showcasing the evocative photography of Luigi Spina, capturing the ancient city of Pompeii like never before. During the global pandemic, with the Archaeological Park of Pompeii closed to the public, Spina had the unprecedented opportunity to immerse himself in its timeless spaces. Over 1,450 photographs emerged from this unique residency, with 300 of them published in the acclaimed book Interno Pompeiano (Inside Pompeii) in 5 language editions in collaboration with 5 Continents Editions (Milan, Italy). Through the lens of a purpose-built camera which allows photos to be taken in natural light, Pompeii is brought back to life. These stunning images invite us to walk its storied streets, hear the echoes of people’s lives, and marvel at the intricate frescoes that capture both the grandeur and intimacy of an ancient European way of living. The exchange of cultural knowledge, traditions and art between the EU and international partners is key to fostering mutual respect and understanding, which creates peace and stability around the world. As a World Heritage site, Pompeii is preserved for the sake of the world, like the 20 World Heritage Sites in Australia. This shared respect for preserving and upholding cultural heritage, leads us to the understanding that we require shared solutions for challenges of the present and future. “I invite you to explore this extraordinary exhibition and experience Pompeii as it once was—vibrant, thriving, and profoundly human”. - Gabriele Visentin, EU Ambassador to Australia.
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From now until 13 May 2026
The Stranger
The StrangerThe superb new film from multi-award winning writer/director François Ozon ('Swimming Pool', '8 Women', 'Under the Sand'), THE STRANGER is a gripping adaptation of Albert Camus’ landmark novella about a detached young expat under trial for murder in French-colonised Algeria. Summer, 1938. Meursault (Benjamin Voisin, 'Lost Illusions'), a quiet and unassuming clerk in his early thirties, attends his mother’s funeral. The next day, he begins a casual affair with Marie (Rebecca Marder), a colleague randomly encountered at the local baths, and quickly slips back into routine. However, daily life is soon disrupted by his volatile neighbour (an excellent Pierre Lottin, My Brother’s Band), who draws Meursault into an altercation involving an ex-lover. And then, one blisteringly hot afternoon, an inexplicable event occurs on a beach, one that will see Meursault’s very moral standing brought to question… Visually resplendent with sensuous black-and-white images, Ozon’s elegant and masterfully realised film shines a contemporary lens on Camus' classic tale of dissociation and morality, capturing the beauty and heat of a charged society on the boil.Country Of Origin: Belgium, France, & Morocco.
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From now until 25 Jul 2026
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art
This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary ArtImage Credit: Kung Wen-Yi 鞏文宜, RX78-2 2015, ceramic. White Rabbit Collection, Sydney. Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program by Judith Neilson This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art is a demonstration of art’s power to document change, challenge perception and connect across cultures. Capturing the energetic spirit of 21st-century China, this extraordinary exhibition features bold, experimental artworks produced over the last 25 years that reclaim history, interrogate authority and reflect profound social change. Fearlessly engaging with complex global themes and China’s tumultuous history, the artists featured in This Moment challenge prevailing perceptions of modern China. From mesmerising light installations to powerful video art and large-scale sculpture, the experiential artworks in This Moment command attention with sheer scale and striking visual intensity, leaving their mark on your psyche and your social feed. Founded by philanthropist Judith Neilson in 2009, Sydney's White Rabbit Gallery showcases one of the world’s most significant private collections of Chinese contemporary art. Now in a Queensland exclusive, audiences can experience highlights from the collection at HOTA for free. This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art features more than 40 works by 26 artists with artworks spanning video, photography, painting, light-based installations and monumental sculpture. The exhibition includes works by leading artists such as Geng Xue, Guo Jian, LuYang, Peng Hung-Chih, Xu Zhen, Zhang Dali and Zhang Peili.
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From now until 13 May 2026
Don't Be Prey
Don't Be PreyOrdinary people doing extraordinary things Don’t Be Prey is an edge-of-your-seat adventure into one man’s fight to reclaim his life by taking on the world’s most dangerous marathon swims, the Oceans Seven. Featuring unforgettable characters, raw vulnerability and breathtaking ocean feats, it’s a gripping, uplifting journey of resilience, reinvention and what it really takes to survive.Country Of Origin: Australia.
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From now until 21 Jun 2026
A Bigger View
Embark on a journey of epic proportions as you immerse yourself in monumental works of art from the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). Made possible through the Australian Government's Sharing the National Collection initiative, this exhibition brings together masterpieces from the NGA alongside major works from our very own collection.Spanning decades and continents, each epic in scale and subject, these artworks demonstrate the various and unique approaches artists take to the landscape.A highlight for visitors will be two artworks created by Henri Matisse (1869 -1954), one of Europe's greatest twentieth-century modernist artists. Accompanying Matisse's uniquely abstracted views of sea and sky forms is an extraordinary work by senior Australian artist, Imants Tillers, presenting a vision of the Australian landscape inspired by Eugene Von Guérard's 1863 masterpiece North-east view from the northern top of Mount Kosciusko, seen here together for the first time.These works will be complemented by stunning works from HOTA's own collection. Uluru by Pintupi artist Long Tom Tjapanangka brings a First Nations perspective of Australia's biggest landmark to the exhibition, and a stunning hinterland painting by beloved Australian artist Wiliam Robinson invites contemplation of the natural world around us.Prepare to be awestruck by the grandeur of these works, as you explore a bigger view.
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From now until 26 Dec 2027
Carrara Markets Car Boot Sale
Carrara Markets is famous for its Sunday morning Car Boot Sale!If you love a second-hand bargain then you're sure to find it amongst the boots full of preloved fashion, books, toys, homewares, tools, bibs and bobs!If you have a garage full of stuff you don't know what to do with, then you can make some cash from your trash by becoming a car boot seller! Seller sites are $50. No bookings required. Just turn up on the day with your car loaded up & start selling!Carrara Markets Car Boot Sale is open every Sunday morning 7am to 10am in the car park.
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From now until 06 Feb 2028
HOTA Farmers and Artisan Market
The HOTA Markets are one of the Gold Coast's most vibrant community markets, held every Sunday morning, in the iconic HOTA precinct from 6am-11.30am.Like the Gold Coast itself, we're a celebration of independence and lifestyle! They are passionate about local farmers, makers, bakers and growers, we like knowing where our goods come from, and we love supporting new and emerging small businesses. The markets are part of the fabric of the Gold Coast, they're proud to support and foster local artists and live music, as well as supporting social causes representing the local community.Each Sunday HOTA comes alive with in-season farm-fresh produce, delicious artisan foods, boutique fashion and handcrafted wears. All nestled against the backdrop of Evendale Lake and the stunning HOTA landscape.
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21 May 2026
Freelance Filmm4kers
Freelance Filmm4kers is an exciting event taking place at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the stunning Gold Coast of Australia. Scheduled for May 21, 2026, this gathering is designed for aspiring and established filmmakers alike, providing a platform to connect, collaborate, and share insights within the dynamic film industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, participate in workshops, and showcase their creative works. This event promises to inspire and empower freelance filmmakers to elevate their craft and network with peers in a vibrant and supportive environment.
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From now until 23 May 2026
Lagoon Beach Club
The Lagoon Beach Club brings luxury, entertainment, and indulgence to the heart of SCIBS. Enjoy all-day grazing by InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, premium beverages, live entertainment, and full Show access. It's your exclusive social hub at the Boat Show!Lagoon Beach Club - Brunch (Thurs-Sat) 9:30am–12:00pmEase into the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show at the Lagoon Beach Club Bottomless Brunch session with an exclusive, vibrant experience overlooking the water.Enjoy roaming canapés, barista coffee, bottomless mimosas, signature bloody mary fountain by Mr. Consistent, Rosé by Whispering Angel, the return of the iconic Veuve Clicquot Sun Club, acoustic live performers and lagoon and poolside seating.All set within a relaxed, social setting overlooking the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove sparkling pool - perfect for starting your day at the Show.Lagoon Beach Club - Beats & Bites (Thurs-Sat) 12:30pm - 4:30pmAdd some energy to your afternoon at SCIBS with a Lagoon Beach Club Beats & Bites session!Expect a curated premium food offering, champagne and rosé activations, interactive DJs and feature entertainment, lagoon and poolside seating - all within a relaxed, social setting ideal for networking.With sun-soaked views, lively tunes, and plenty of space to relax or dance, it's the ultimate laid-back SCIBS session for friends, festival-goers, corporate groups and VIPs alike.
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21 May 2026 - 24 May 2026
2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Welcome to Australia's must-see boating blockbuster!The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is the greatest show afloat! The Southern Hemisphere's marquee marine event with a superstar lineup of more than 300 exhibitors across everything from the latest marine gadgets and must-have technology to a massive display of trailer boats, sail boats, motor yachts and superyachts plus a raft of exciting new product launches.The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show promises plenty of showstopping moments from exclusive VIP experiences in The Lagoon Beach Club to boatloads of activities, including live entertainment stages, fishing demonstrations, street performers and a fun-filled kids activities. Get along to the biggest and best boating lifestyle show with over 820 boats and thousands of marine products.Don't miss this full-on, four-day, action-packed event of all things aquatic.
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23 May 2026 (Monthly)
Kings of Comedy's Gold Coast Comedy Club
🎤 Kings of Comedy: Surfers Paradise Showcase at Oaks Gold Coast Resort 🌴Get ready for a night of non-stop laughs as Australia’s best underground comedy club lands in Surfers Paradise!Join us at the stunning Oaks Gold Coast Resort for a boutique comedy night packed with rising stars, seasoned headliners, and raw, unfiltered talent.Whether you’re a local legend or here on holiday, this is the Gold Coast comedy experience you’ve been craving—no gimmicks, no fluff, just side-splitting stand-up comedy at its finest.Adults-only event (18+)Intimate venue, epic atmosphereDinner & show options availablePerfect for date night, mates night, or solo missions🚗 Paid parking available on site (Crowne Plaza Underground Carpark)🚋 Tram stop right out the frontIf you're planning to have a drink or two—easy access and no need for a designated driver.🎟️ Seating: 6:45pm | Showtime: 7:00pm sharp👉 Book now – tickets move fast and laughter waits for no one!🍽️ Dinner Sessions are before the show 5:45pmFrom Melbourne to the Goldie, Kings of Comedy is bringing the laughs nationwide.Come see why we’re the underground comedy scene’s worst-kept secret—and why the other clubs keep trying to copy us.
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05 Jun 2026 - 06 Jun 2026
Gold Coast Disability Expo
The Gold Coast Disability Expo brings together a wide range of product and service providers to help people with disability live their best lives. Meet with a range of providers including government and advocacy, aids and equipment, financial and legal services, education, training and employment providers, social and leisure options, transport and vehicles, health and medical products and services, allied health professionals and support services, all under one roof in an accessible and inclusive environment.The expo will also feature a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts, and all-ability adult and children's entertainment.Expo accessible features: Auslan Interpreters, live captioning at the stage, quiet time Saturday morning 9am-10am, service animal friendly with watering station, accessible venue facilities, drop off zone and accessible parking.Jump the entry queues by registering your attendance for the free Gold Coast Disability Expo on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th June 2026 at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre. Get organised with the Expo Guide that will give you the lowdown on parking, exhibitors, floor plan, and the stage and entertainment schedule
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13 Jun 2026 (Monthly)
Cowboys and Country at Historic Rivermill
Saddle up for a proper country day out in the Gold Coast Hinterland.Every second Saturday of the month, Historic Rivermill throws open its gates for a free, all-ages celebration of boots, beats, and bush culture — right on the banks of the Coomera River. Saturday, 9 May | 8 AM – 3 PM What's on:Live country music · Mechanical bull rides · Whip cracking show by Ringers Western · Beginner line dancing · Reptile show by True Blue Reptiles · Horse and pony rides · Alpaca and animal feeding · Jumping castle · Fairy floss and snow cones · Sheep shearing demonstration · 20+ market stalls · Sausage sizzle · and plenty more across the venue Schedule highlights: Line dancing: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Reptile show: 12:00 – 12:45 PM Sheep shearing demonstration: 1:00 – 1:30 PM Win $100 on the BullRegister for a free mechanical bull ride — whoever holds on the longest wins $100 cash. The operator adjusts the difficulty for different ages, so kids can have a go too. Register each person in your group separately. The winner will be notified by SMS on the day. Register for your free ride at historicrivermill.au/event-cowboys Entry is completely free — no tickets required.
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19 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026
FoodTech Qld
Status of this event could not be verified by our team. Please check with the organizer before visiting. The FoodTech Qld event, hosted at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, is an innovative platform that gathers the latest solutions in food manufacturing and technology. Drawing an audience from Australia, China, and Egypt, this event is designed for food manufacturing and production professionals, offering them a chance to explore cutting-edge technologies and strategies to enhance their operations. With an expected visitor count of over 3,000, FoodTech Qld serves as a hub for networking, knowledge sharing, and business growth, making it a key event for industry stakeholders.The two-day exhibition will feature leading suppliers in various sectors including food science, packaging machinery, and processing equipment. Attendees can participate in a comprehensive conference program that includes keynote sessions, panel discussions, and roundtables led by industry experts. These sessions are tailored to provide actionable insights that empower food manufacturers to tackle industry challenges effectively. The event emphasizes the importance of safety and innovation in food production, encouraging businesses to invest in high-performing processing equipment and sustainable packaging options. As the demand for advanced plant equipment rises, the focus remains on enhancing operational efficiency, sustainability, and automation, which are crucial in meeting evolving consumer expectations for quality and consistency. Additionally, the Mosca Networking Lounge and vibrant Networking Parties offer exceptional opportunities for attendees to forge valuable relationships, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Gold Coast. Overall, FoodTech Qld promises to be an essential gathering for those involved in the food manufacturing industry, where technology and innovation meet to drive future growth.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.