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It’s winter – here’s what we’re wearing

Winter dressing on the Gold Coast is like an extreme sport – too warm for a coat, too cool for your summer uniform. This is the season to lean into pieces that do double duty: relaxed enough for a Saturday market run, polished enough to wear to your favourite wine bar. Here are the trends on the horizon this winter, and the local pieces making the cut.

Tomboy Femme

The tension between structured and slouchy is defining dressing right now, and the tomboy femme aesthetic sums it up perfectly. Think oversized collared shirts worn half-tucked, denim sets that hit that sweet spot between utility and polish, and classics like trenchcoats and button-downs with unexpected details. The formula: one relaxed piece, one that means business. Almost like a sartorial mullet.

Mesh Moment

Summer’s sheerest trend didn’t clock off – it just put on long sleeves. Winter mesh is all about strategic layering: a bralette peeking through a fine-knit crop top, or an asymmetric draped top that plays with transparency without sacrificing warmth. The key is in the cut: longer hems, off-shoulder necklines, and ruched detailing all help make this simple summer piece feel more considered in winter. Wear it over, under, or both.

Tailored Trousers

If there’s one item worth the investment this season, it’s a great pair of trousers. Not the boring kind you’d wear to the office (slacks, in every sense of the word) – we’re talking wide-leg silhouettes in unexpected colours, relaxed drawstring waists that blur the line between loungewear and luxury, and balloon-leg cuts that help justify your fanciest footwear. You haven’t missed the show – the elevated trouser is extending its run in the spotlight.

The colours

Three shades are running the winter palette right now: chocolate brown (earthy, grounding, pairs with literally everything), sky blue (fresh and a little unexpected for the cooler months, in the best way), and burgundy (the forever winter colour that keeps earning its spot).

Winter picks from our favourite local brands and boutiques…
    1. Remmie by Riley Palma long sleeve, $75, remmiebyriley.com
    2. Isabelle Quinn off-shoulder top, $220, isabellequinn.com.au
    3. Ksubi Sott Altar boyfriend tee, $159.95, babylemonadestore.com.au
    4. Rhythm Charlie trucker jacket ($149) and pants ($119), rhythmlivin.com
    5. Ceres Life Ash coat, $189.9, saintharlowe.com.au
    6. About a Girl Alex jeans, $99.95, aboutagirl.com
    7. Blanca Athena shirt, $300, emteboutique.com.au
    8. Sean Scott Boutique parachute pants, $180, seanscottboutique.com.au
    9. Bird on a Wire Simone knit cardigan, $89, birdonawireburleigh.com
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How to embrace whimsy this weekend

It’s official: the kids have discovered whimsy. Over the past few months, the number of TikTok posts under the #whimsy hashtag has risen steadily (409,900, at the time of writing), proving a growing desire to embrace a simpler, more enjoyable way of life. Here are a few ways you can, too.

Whimsy (noun): playfully quaint or fanciful behaviour.

Whatever the reason (and we can think of a few), Generations Z and Alpha are leaning away from what feels dark and heavy, and diving headfirst into whimsy. Frolicking in fields, playing pretend, crafting, picnicking, covering everything with stickers and sprinkles – they all feel like useful antidotes to the gloom of the world right now. And who are we to judge?

If you’re tempted to embrace a little whimsy this weekend, we’re here to help. Here are a few ways to try it.

Follow the fairy trail

It doesn’t get much more whimsical than a fairy trail – and it’s fitting that charming Mudgeeraba would be the suburb to have one. As of June 1, the Mudgeeraba Fairy Trail is open for anyone wanting to track down a few special visitors. Wind your way through all 10 stops, keeping an eye out for fairies, mermaids and mystical creatures, before arriving at your final destination: a fairy disco party. Head to the Sensory Boutique to pick up your fairy trail map, and let the magic happen.

Light the night with glow worms

Did you know the Gold Coast is home to not one, but two glow worm experiences? If you want to experience the wonder of these bioluminescent insects, you’re in the right place. Located at Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard on Tamborine Mountain, the man-made glow worm caves are the result of decades of rehabilitation efforts. You’ll be led by biologists through a rainforest boardwalk, getting the chance to meet glow worms up close. For something a little wilder, join a tour of the resident glow-worms (and microbats) at Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park. If you time your visit right, you could also see luminous fungi and fireflies.

Uncover magical eggs

If spending the day digging in the dirt, hunting for literal hidden gems, is your idea of heaven, you need to pay a visit to Thunderbird Park. Not only is it home to adventure activities and unique camping, but it’s also where you’ll find the world’s largest Thunderegg Mine. For the uninitiated, Thundereggs are geological marvels formed over 200 million years ago, containing colourful agate, quartz and crystals. Forget crystal shops – fossicking and panning is the most whimsical way to find the perfect addition to your collection.

Visit the Gold Coast’s home of whimsy

A shop filled with German cuckoo clocks, an old-fashioned confectionary, and a pub guarded by gigantic St. Bernards – there are so many reasons Tamborine is the Gold Coast’s capital of whimsy. Wander through the botanic gardens, browse ancient Australian opals and crystals, and enjoy the view from Rob Sowter Lookout (both of the valley below, and the paragliders descending into it) while picnicking. And if you’d like to extend your stay, there’s even an enchanted cottage to check into.

Touch the night sky

If you thought there was plenty to do at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary during the day, just wait until the sun goes down. Brought to you by global entertainment creators Moment Factory, Astra Lumina is an enchanted adventure that takes you through the sanctuary’s bushland under the cover of darkness. Moving orbs illuminate the pathway, leading you through a celestial immersion of light and sound. It’s the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere – and it’s here to stay.

Picnic with alpacas

The most whimsical addition to any picnic? Wildlife. O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards has been home to Mountview Alpaca Farm since 2017, combining delicious food and wine with the unexpected joy of alpacas. Pick up a vineyard picnic basket, breakfast hamper or simply a bottle of wine, and get to know the resident alpacas as you explore the creekside property. You can even walk them! We dare you to find a vineyard experience more whimsical.

Frolic among the flowers

There are few activities more whimsical than frolicking – especially when you’re frolicking through a field of flowers. Lucky for you, there are plenty of places to get lost amongst the blooms both on and around the Gold Coast. From our very own Botanic Gardens to out-of-town options including elderflower, sunflower and lavender farms, our region is made for flower fanatics. Pack a picnic, wear your most whimsical outfit, and let the bees lead the way. Bonus points if you wear a flower crown.

Recharge your energy

Did you know that some of the world’s largest and most beautiful crystals are nestled in the Byron Bay hinterland, about an hour from the Gold Coast? From crystal labyrinths to enchanted caves, rainforest walks and dragon eggs, the aptly-named Crystal Castle should be top of the list for crystal lovers – or anyone wanting to recharge in nature. Impossible colours, unbelievable scale, perfect geometry… even sceptics will admire the magic of crystals after a visit to the castle.

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New Gold Coast restaurants to try this winter | 2026

Staying on top of the Gold Coast’s latest restaurant openings is a full-time job – and one we take very, very seriously. We’ve hunted down, sipped and sampled the newest offerings and served them up right here, for you. Happy dining!

SHŌTŌ, Burleigh Heads

If you’ve been lucky enough to snag a table at Etsu in Mermaid, you’ll already understand the hype around its long-awaited Burleigh sibling. SHŌTŌ – meaning ‘short sword’ in Japanese – has slid into the Gold Coast Highway (next door to Rosella’s) and it’s already impossible to get into. The space leans darker and moodier than its Mermaid sibling: think reclaimed timber, leather booths, low lighting and a long bar. Reservations essential – and currently not easy to come by.

www.instagram.com

Conka Bar, Burleigh Heads

Part breakfast spot, part bar, all fiesta. Mexico City meets Burleigh at this family-run all-dayer – and it’s a match made in heaven. Coffee and breaky run from 6am to 2pm, serving Jalapeño Bennys, birria toasties on sourdough and a Mexa Burrito stuffed with chorizo, guacamole and the house secret sauce. From 4pm, the cocktails take over and the menu shifts into tapas territory: hand-pressed blue corn sopes, aguachile with Australian prawns and barramundi, and a slow-cooked birria plate served with handmade tortillas that’ll have you cancelling any plans you had after dinner.

www.conkabar.com.au

Hicksville, Southport

From the team behind Fire Baby comes Hicksville, a multi-concept venue on Hicks Street that’s rolling out in stages, and already delivering. Hicksy’s Café is open weekdays from 6.30am for specialty coffee and stacked sandwiches, while the smokehouse is now firing Thursday to Sunday with low-and-slow BBQ built around 16-hour smoked brisket, pork ribs, southern fried chicken and the Pitmaster’s Plate for when you want the full picture. Gelato and a bar are still on the way. Basically, this street corner is only going to get better.

www.hicksvillesmokehouse.com.au

The Laneway, Burleigh Heads

Blink and you’ll miss it, which is exactly the point. Tucked down a laneway off Tallebudgera Creek Road, The Laneway is the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately want to keep to yourself. It’s hidden enough to feel special, close enough to feel like home. Open from 2pm, they’re dishing up stone-baked pizza, fresh pasta and cocktails. Early evening specials run from 2–5pm if you’re looking for a reason to show up before dinner (not that you’ll need one).

www.thelanewayburleigh.com

Fig ‘n’ Fox, Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise just got its most convincing British export (since a sunburnt tourist asking for a flat white, that is). Spread across two levels on Elkhorn Avenue, Fig ‘n’ Fox is the real deal: warm timber, cold pints and a pub menu built around the classics. Beef and Guinness pie, homemade bangers and mash, beer-battered fish and chips, a Sunday roast every week from 11am – this is comfort food that will transport you to the chilly streets of London. When you’re done, head downstairs to Timmy’s Tea Room, the underground dive bar running live music, pool and darts until late every night.

www.fignfox.au

Smug Club, Coomera

Smug Club isn’t in the business of humble sandwiches, and there’s no shame in being smug when you’re selling out before lunchtime. Since landing at the Coomera Collective in mid-May, they’ve been selling out daily ever since. The concept is simple and unapologetic: seriously stacked focaccia sandwiches and a lineup of specialty drinks with names like Smug Berry Blanc, Pink Pony and Chocolate Bounty. Open Thursday to Sunday from 7am until sold out. Go early, or go home empty-handed.

www.smugclub.com.au

Feature image credit: Smug Club

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Gold Coast What’s On | Winter 2026

Okay, it’s officially cold – but we won’t let that get in the way of a good time. There is so much to look forward to this winter. Here’s our official ‘Gold Coast What’s On’ guide for winter 2026.

Show me what’s happening this week

PRCHR. Birthday Party Show | Thursday June 4 at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Burleigh Heads

prchr. is returning to the Mo’s Desert Clubhouse stage for a free show – playing alongside friends Cardboard Cutouts & In Constanc to celebrate his 27th birthday and you’re invited.

www.mosdesertclubhouse.com

QClash: Gold Coast Suns v. Brisbane Lions | Saturday June 6 at People First Stadium, Carrara

QClash is back at People First Stadium, seeing the Gold Coast SUNS take on back-to-back premiers, the Brisbane Lions.

www.goldcoastfc.com.au

Gold Coast Disability Expo | Friday June 5 and Saturday June 6 at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre

The Gold Coast Disability and WorkAbility Expo brings together a range of product and service providers to help people with disability live their best lives.

www.goldcoastdisabilityexpo.com.au

Loaf x Princess Polly | Friday June 5 to Sunday June 7 at Loaf, Palm Beach

Joining the Hall of Fame for local brand collaborations, Princess Polly and Loaf are teaming up to bring you full weekend of fun drinks, special offers and unbeatable vibes.

www.instagram.com

Cooly Rocks On | Wednesday June 3 to Sunday June 7 at Coolangatta

Renowned as one of Australia’s best Show ‘N’ Shine displays, Coolangatta will be transported back in time as the streets are lined with over 900 cars, hot rods, kustom classics, lowbrow art, and more.

www.coolyrockson.com

What’s happening this week…

Koal | Thursday June 11 and Friday June 12 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise

Fresh off a hit run at Theatre Works in Melbourne and PhysFestNYC in New York City, KOAL is a one-woman climate-catastrophe-clown-show for the end of the world.

www.hota.com.au

Sunrise. Pilates. Coffee | Saturday June 13 at Custard Canteen, Tallebudgera Creek

Join Pilates instructor Summer Welch this Saturday for a FREE beachside Pilates class, followed by a first taste of Custard’s new cold brew and cold foam flavours.

www.instagram.com

Black Hops Burleigh Turns 10 | Saturday June 13 at Black Hops, Burleigh Heads

With live music all day, brand-new beer drops, prize giveaways and more, Black Hops is throwing a proper birthday party – and you’re invited.

www.instagram.com

YOHKA | Saturday June 13 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport

From elite athletes to first-time racers, this is where movement meets entertainment – fast, fierce, and built for everyone.

www.yohka.com

HOTA Ideas: Love on the Goldy | Saturday June 13 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise

What does love look like on the Gold Coast? Join a panel that brings together a group of local queer voices to speak honestly about love in all its forms.

www.hota.com.au

The Australian Eagles Show: 50 Years of Hotel California | Saturday June 13 at Jacobs Well Hotel

Fifty years on, Hotel California remains a cornerstone of classic rock – and the Australian Eagles Show, Australia’s premier tribute to the Eagles’ unforgettable sound, honours the milestone live in concert.

www.theaustralianeaglestributeshow.com.au

Black Ink Presents: Poetry Night Series | Saturday June 13 at HOTA, Surfers Paradise

A dynamic program of live open mic poetry events culminating in an end of year Grand Slam celebration.

www.hota.com.au

Cowboys and Country | Saturday June 13 at Historic Rivermill, Mount Nathan

A one-day western and country event by the Coomera River, with a whip-cracking show by Ringers Western, live country music, line dancing and family activities.

www.historicrivermill.au

Harbour Town: Get Outlet Sale | Friday June 12 to Sunday June 14 at Harbour Town Outlets, Biggera Waters

The hotly anticipated Get Outlet Sale returns for three big days of sales, events and giveaways.

www.harbourtowngoldcoast.com.au

ETHER Exhibition | Wednesday June 10 to Tuesday June 16 at Studio 8, Currumbin

ETHER brings together six artists exploring themes of transformation, emergence, and unseen emotional worlds that shape human experience.

www.kellienorthcreative.com.au

Australian Bowls Championship | Friday June 5 to Friday June 19 at various locations across the Gold Coast

The Australian Open has become a true festival of bowls, with 14 days of action played across the 14 host clubs on the Gold Coast.

www.australianopen.bowls.com.au

Gold Coast Lapidary Club Annual Show | Saturday June 20 at the Gold Coast Lapidary Club, Miami

The Gold Coast Lapidary Club will be holding its Annual Gem and Craft Show! It’s a fun day out for the whole family.

www.goldcoastlapidaryclub.com.au

SeaFire | Saturday June 20 at Surfers Paradise

Completely free and family friendly, SeaFire is our very own international fireworks competition, showcasing world-class pyrotechnics set against the iconic beachfront backdrop.

www.whatsongoldcoast.au

Burleigh Heads Winter Solstice Festival | Saturday June 20 at James Street, Burleigh Heads

Celebrate the longest night of the year with this free, family-friendly winter celebration.

www.burleighwintersolsticefestival.com.au

Voices and Voltage | Saturday June 20 at St Hilda’s School, Southport

Voices and Voltage reimagines iconic choral masterworks through a contemporary lens.

www.trybooking.com

Fashion Thrift Society | Sunday June 21 at Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall

Spanning two countries and 21 cities in 2024, they’re redefining fashion with community, culture, and creativity at their core.

www.fashionthriftsociety.com.au

Sprint Series Adventure Race | Sunday June 21 at Nerang National Park

The Sprint Series Adventure race is designed to offer the perfect introduction to the exciting sport of adventure racing.

www.adventuresprint.com.au

Issi Dye at SkyPoint | Sunday June 21 at SkyPoint Observation Deck, Surfers Paradise

Join Australian cabaret legend Issi Dye on Level 78 at the SkyPoint Observation Deck for an unforgettable night of stories, music, and showbiz history.

www.skypoint.com.au

Ashton’s Great Australian Circus | Friday June 26 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport

Roll up, roll up: Ashton’s Great Australian Circus is coming to the Gold Coast this school holidays with a spectacular new show. Fun for the whole family!

www.ashtonentertainment.com.au

Southport Street Festival | Saturday June 27 at CSi Club Southport

Southport, let’s bring the street to life! A curated festival experience that celebrates the best of our local community.

www.clubsouthport.com.au

Naturally Gold Coast Festival | Saturday June 27 at Broadbeach Cultural Centre, Mermaid Waters

A free, family friendly celebration of our region’s environment and rich biodiversity.

www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au

Mudgeeraba Agricultural Show | Saturday June 27 and Sunday June 28 at Mudgeeraba Showgrounds

From its early days as a Flower and Fete Show, the Mudgeeraba Show has blossomed into a two-day event showcasing equestrian, woodchop, livestock judging, working dogs, live bands, showbags, rides and more.

www.mudgeerabashow.org.au

The Doyles Art Award | Friday June 19 to Sunday June 28 at Firth Park Community Centre, Mudgeeraba

The Gold Coast’s longest running fine art prize, the Doyles Art Award is an annual not-for-profit art award and exhibition held in the beautiful historic village of Mudgeeraba.

www.thedoylesaward.com.au

Scenic Rim Eat Local Month | Friday May 29 to Tuesday June 30 at Scenic Rim

Just an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim Eat Local Month returns for its 15th year with 150+ unique events across the region.

www.eatlocalmonth.com.au

Harlem Globetrotters: The 100 Year Tour | Thursday July 2 at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, Carrara

For 100 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have delighted fans around the world with unbelievable trick shots, jaw-dropping dunks, and moments of pure joy. Now, they’re embarking on their most legendary tour ever.

www.harlemglobetrotters.com

Gold Coast Marathon | Saturday July 4 and Sunday July 5 at Broadwater Parklands, Southport

Celebrate the 46th edition of the world class international marathon, which attracts participants of all ages and abilities from around the world

www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au

Beach Tennis Open 2026 | Thursday July 9 to Sunday July 12 at Kurrawa Beach, Broadbeach

The largest beach tennis event in Oceania, this 4-day tournament brings all levels of beach tennis players together from around the world.

www.beachtennisgoldcoast.com

Adventure Race | Saturday July 18 at various locations across the Gold Coast

Run, kayak, mountain bike and navigate your way over an unmarked 15km or 30km off-road course with up to 6 hours to collect all the checkpoints and reach the finish line.

www.wldnco.com

Kirra Longboard Klassic | Tuesday July 21 to Sunday August 2 at Kirra Beach, Coolangatta

A single day fun longboard event designed to bring together like minded local amateur surfers in a fun filled day of surfing.

www.kirralongboardklassic.com

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10 travel Instagram accounts to inspire your next getaway

Social media was made for travellers. Once upon a time, you’d have to buy a guide or visit a travel agent to discover your next destination – on Instagram, it’s just a scroll away. Planning your next getaway? Here are the travel Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration.

Somewhere I Would Like to Live

It follows that two interior designers would know what makes a home appealing – and that’s exactly what this Instagram account is dedicated to. Aptly named ‘Somewhere I Would Like to Live’, it offers a mix of intriguing homes and hotels, bucket list destinations and unusual attractions.

www.instagram.com

Voyageurs du Monde

As its name would suggest, Voyageurs Du Monde appeals to the travellers of the world with tangible tips and off-piste suggestions for your next adventure. Whether you’re travelling by plane, train or automobile through the plains of Africa or the coasts of Europe, use this account to guide your voyage.

https://www.instagram.com/voyageursdumonde

Dame Traveler Foodie

If, for you, the best parts of a holiday happen at breakfast, lunch and dinner, you need to be following Dame Traveler Foodie. It’s a careful curation of the world’s best bars, restaurants and coffee shops – so you know they’ll never run out of inspiration. Once you’ve booked your flights, consult their page before you book your restaurants.

www.instagram.com

The World from a Window

A simple concept, executed perfectly. As the name suggests, The World from a Window captures the world’s most beautiful destinations from the inside looking out – one post you’re in a cosy studio, the next a high-up apartment or the cabin of a boat.

www.instagram.com

Prior

They’re experts in travel design and group trips, and they’re generous enough to share their expertise with their Instagram followers. From Biarritz to Brooklyn, Stockholm to Sao Paolo, Prior captures the world’s most beautiful destinations with an inquisitive lens.

www.instagram.com

 

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Suitcase

The best travel Instagram accounts know a trip is made up of more than beautiful hotel rooms and photo opportunities – the real adventure is found in spontaneous street food, cultural celebrations and discovering the stories behind the landmarks. Suitcase packs all of that, and more, into their grid.

www.instagram.com

 

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The Grecian Guide

As one of the world’s most photographed countries, deciding where to go in Greece can be overwhelming. If you only trust one source for travel inspiration, let it be this one – the Grecian Guide shares the secret spots and locals-only advice that will take your holiday from predictable to unforgettable.

www.instagram.com

Petite Passport

Some share travel inspiration – others live it. Pauline Egge, founder of Petite Passport, is firmly in the latter camp, trying and testing the restaurants, hotels and destinations she shares on her page. The result is a first-person guide to the world’s most beautiful destinations, curated by someone who’s (just about) seen and done it all.

www.instagram.com

Hotel Weekend

If you consider scouring AirBnB and Booking.com for the best stays among your special skills, you need to follow Hotel Weekend. It’s a showcase of the world’s best design-led hotels and hideaways, curated by a traveller who firmly rejects the adage: “Book somewhere basic – you’re only going to sleep there.”

www.instagram.com

 

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Pathport

Kind of like if the Lonely Planet had a chicer cousin. This page, run by NYC-based creative Laurence Delebois, reads like a perfectly-curated Pinterest board, sharing beautifully photographed locations with informative captions. While they’re not as active anymore, there’s still plenty of inspiration to be found in the archive.

www.instagram.com

 

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