Work is Play
You're growing when you're learning. You're growing even more when there's fun to be had. Join a local class or workshop, meet new friends, enjoy a laugh or two and learn something new.
classes & workshops
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From now until 24 Mar 2027
Storyfest Gold Coast
Do you have a passion for literature?Would you like to see some of the most highly acclaimed authors in the world? At Somerset Storyfest you can immerse yourself in literature!It all kicks off with the Prologue Party - fun for the whole family - and for the adults, come along to either the Literary Lunch on the Tuesday or alternatively, The Craig Bassingthwaighte Long Table, held as the closing event for the Festival on the Wednesday evening.Tickets will be available for purchase online four weeks before the commencement of Storyfest Gold Coast. Many sessions have limited numbers, so book early to avoid disappointment.
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From now until 30 May 2026
Craft Your Own – Cocktail Masterclass
Master the Art of Mixology at Tamborine Mountain DistilleryJoin in for a special experience at Tamborine Mountain Distillery, where you'll learn, taste, and make cocktails. The expert mixologist will guide you and show you how to use their spirits and liqueurs to craft amazing drinks.Guided by a skilled mixologist, the Cocktail Masterclass includes:Expert guidance from a experienced mixologist. Access to a curated range of the finest premium spirits and liqueurs. The opportunity to craft two unique cocktails. Enjoying your handcrafted cocktails with a grazing board to share. An exclusive 10% discount on same-day liquor purchases. All necessary equipment provided for the session.Know Before You Go: This experience is for individuals aged 18 and above. Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled class time to check in.
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From now until 23 May 2026
Macbeth
Step into the smoky glamour of 19th century Las Vegas in this bold reimagining of Macbeth. Amid the flashing lights and shadowy corners of the city gambling's Underworld, a ruthless mob enforce drawn into a deadly game of ambition. Guided by haunting visions from mysterious slot machines that foretell his rise, he begins a violent descent into betrayal, paranoia, and bloodshed. Shakespeare's iconic tragedy is reborn in a world of vice and vengeance, where power comes at the highest cost.Rating: 12 + Contains references to death & drugs, mature themesSaturday 9 May 2026 - Saturday 23 May 2026 (UTC+10)Cost: $25.00 - $30.00
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Saturday (Weekly)
Cauldron Distillery Gin Blending Class
Get your creative juices flowing during an informative and interactive Gin Blending Class at Tamborine Mountain’s very own Cauldron Distillery.Do you enjoy creating recipes in the kitchen? How good is your palate at detecting flavours?During this one hour experience, you will learn everything there is to know about gin and then you are set free to create your own gin masterpiece to take home. Set in their world-class distillery and guided by their distilling team, you will select from a multitude of individually distilled botanicals and skilfully blend them together to create a balanced gin that suits your palate and taste.How does a gin with orange, sage, and anise sound to you? Maybe you prefer rose petals, strawberry, and cocoa nibs? Perhaps your preference is lemon myrtle, macadamia nuts and honey? The choice will be yours because your gin blend can be as unique as you are!Here’s what is included in this unique experience:Complementary G and T on arrival from our signature Five-To-Five Range A guided 45-minute gin blending class A 200 ml bottle of your very own gin to take home A G&T made from your very own gin at the completion of the course Free Cauldron Club membership with $10 on us to spend at the tasting room bar or bottle shop.
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09 May 2026
Inside Pompeii – Floor Talk with Roman Historian Dr Kit Morrell
Inside Pompeii – Floor Talk with Roman Historian Dr Kit MorrellPhotograph by Luigi Spina by agreement with the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, Volume “Interno Pompeiano”, published by 5 Continents Editions (Milan, Italy). Join us in the Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life exhibition for a roaming floor talk with Roman historian Dr Kit Morrell. Dr Morrell will tour us through the Gallery speaking to some of the key sites of interest captured in Pompeii by photographer Luigi Spina, framing the works in an historical context.
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From now until 30 Aug 2026
Crystals and Botanical Candle Decorating Class - Tamborine Mountain
Looking for fun indoor activities?Decorate gorgeous soy candles and adorn them with crystals and botanicals at this fun experience in Mount Tamborine.They'll provide you with everything you will need to beautifully decorate candles and you'll be led through the process of creating your own masterpieces.For double the fun, bring along a lovely friend to craft and catch up with. Soy candle decorating is also a great idea for birthday parties or even fun team-building activities.At the end of this hands-on class, you will have decorated candles to enjoy at home, decorated with gorgeous crystals and botanicals.The weather can change very quickly they advise to layer your clothing.By the end of the class, you’ll have a beautifully crafted candle to take home, adorned with your choice of crystals and botanicals. These candles not only make great home décor but also wonderful, meaningful gifts.Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience and create something truly special at Mount Tamborine!
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From now until 24 May 2026
Craft Your Signature Bottle - Spirit Blending Class
Embark on a fun journey into the world of spirit blending with their immersive class. Be a spirit blender for a day and craft your own drink, choosing from Gin, Vodka, Rum, Brandy, or Schnapps!Enjoy a tasty welcome drink as your guide leads you through the process, sharing insights into the rich history of spirits and the craft behind their award-winning range at Tamborine Mountain Distillery.Explore over 100 flavours allowing you to craft a blend that's truly yours. Add a personal touch by giving it a name and hand-labelling your bespoke 200ml bottle—a symbol of your unique creation.Unleash your creativity, take home your crafted spirit, and enjoy the satisfaction of making your own blend!What’s Included: Complimentary beverage upon your arrival Professional blending advice provided by an expert guide Drinks provided during the class. Exclusive access to a selection of botanicals from the apothecary A 200ml bottle of your personally blended spirit 10 percent discount on any purchase made from their shop on the same day All equipment is provided.
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13 May 2026 - 29 Apr 2026
Dumpling Masterclass
Dumpling MasterclassRoll up your sleeves and join us at The Exhibitionist Bar for a hands-on dumpling masterclass that’s equal parts skill-building and seriously good fun.You’ll learn the art of dumpling-making from the ground up — crafting your own dough, preparing flavour-packed fillings, and mastering the folds and shapes that turn simple ingredients into bite-sized perfection. Along the way, pick up expert tips and techniques you can recreate at home to impress friends and family.To keep things lively, your experience includes a cocktail on arrival, plus a side of crowd-favourite cheeseburger spring rolls for the ultimate sweet-and-savoury (and slightly cheeky) pairing.Come hungry, leave confident, and take home the skills to make dumplings like a pro.
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14 May 2026 (Monthly)
Creative Conversations
Are you a local artist or creative looking to connect with Senior Arts Officers? Want to chat about your practice, explore opportunities, or find out how we can support your work?Join us for our free monthly drop-in sessions — informal, one-on-one 20-minute meetings designed to help you:Get tailored advice on your creative projectsLearn about funding, partnerships, and community engagementAsk questions and share your ideasWhen: Second Thursday of each monthTime: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMWhere: Broadbeach Community SpaceBookings essential – reserve your spot now!
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14 May 2026
Pass Around the Smile LIVE
Pass Around the Smile LIVEPass Around the Smile began when Cleo Massey, actress known for H2O: Just Add Water, set out to bring more hope and positivity into her life after years of rejection and unfulfilment. A decade later, she’s helping thousands tap into their power and potential. Now, for the first time, Pass Around the Smile is hitting the road for its debut podcast tour.Pass Around the Smile Live invites you to step inside the magic like never before. This uplifting experience feels like an evening with your most inspiring friend ~ the one who lifts you up, gently challenges you, and reminds you that your best self is within reach. Through heartfelt storytelling, spirituality, reflection and simple self-development tools, Cleo will guide you through meditations and activities designed to raise your vibration and reconnect you with yourself.Expect inspiration, clarity and connection in a feel-good night out. Manifestation doesn’t have to be serious ~ it gets to be fun.
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16 May 2026 - 17 May 2026
Cooly Classic Ocean Swim Festival
Swimmers have a rare opportunity to swim a course with some of Australia’s most revered surf breaks as your backdrop – Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta and Kirra.There are four distances, from 1km to 5km, but it’s always the 2.0km Cooly Classic from Snapper Rocks to Kirra Beach which attracts the masses.Your start line, Snapper Rocks, is one of the world’s most famous surf breaks. Then, your course is a straight line to Kirra Beach, passing Rainbow Bay, Greenmount and Coolangatta Beaches as you swim.Throughout the week, there’ll be a range of small group sessions and clinics with guest coaches. This is a chance to receive specialist coaching and also swim with local squads at some of the Gold Coast’s favourite open-water training locations.
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27 Jun 2026 - 27 May 2026
Wulabora
Ballun Gawrehma: Story by the RiverWULABORA Part of the Ballun Gawrehma Series — Stories by the River We walk together into the living heart of Country through WULABORA, a powerful Aboriginal engagement experience tailored to meet the needs of the knowledge seeker. Immersive and educational, it welcomes all ages, from the young to the young at heart. Rooted in ancient wisdom and cultural strength, WULABORA means "the gift and exchange of knowledge and connection." It invites participants on a transformative journey through storytelling, song, art, movement, history, and deep listening. Wulabora opens the space for us to share and discuss seasonal knowledge, stories of the constellations, to create artworks, music and even meditations. The choice is yours. Led by respected Kombumerri artist Lann Levinge, this experience offers more than lessons, it opens the way for cultural awakening, shared understanding, and honest conversation. Gathered by the water’s edge, we hear stories passed down through generations, stories that speak to land, spirit, resilience, and community. Through this rich engagement, participants gain a deeper understanding of First Nations perspectives, language, and lore, encouraging truth-telling, healing, and respect. Whether in schools, community spaces, or professional environments, WULABORA is an invitation: To walk together. To learn together. To honour the voices that have echoed along these rivers for tens of thousands of years. Contact hotaeducation@experiencegoldcoast.com to arrange your education perspectives experience. This tour is open to school groups only.
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11 Jul 2026 - 30 May 2026
Storytime with Aka Sorbie!
Storytime with Aka Sorbie!Image Credit: Jo-Anne DriessensJoin us in our Children's Gallery exhibition Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart for a special story time reading with artist Lisa Sorbie Martin. Known to family as Aka (grandmother), Lisa will read from a series of hand-picked First Nations stories including her book Aka Sorbie and the Sardines, which was specially created for the exhibition. The story shares knowledge about Torres Strait fishing practices and food sources related to the ocean environment where Lisa grew up. Children and their adults are invited to hear about prupa ilan pasin – the Torres Strait values teaching love, respect and care for family, community and the environment, woven into this immersive and interactive exhibition.
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30 May 2026
Symphony In the Sky 2026
Get ready for a magical night under the stars as we take live music to new heights—literally! Symphony in the Sky brings the power and beauty of the Gold Coast Philharmonic orchestra to our rooftop, performing breathtaking tributes to iconic movie soundtracks that have shaped cinema history. Set on the rooftop and against the stunning backdrop of the Gold Coast skyline, this black-tie affair aims to raise awareness and support for The Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence. Indulge in a three-course meal designed to complement the elegance of the evening, paired with a three-hour drinks package.This is an 18+ event.*Please indicate any dietary requirements during ticket purchase
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From now until 02 Dec 2026
Distracted
ADHD Expert Panel Discussions and Q&A'sJoin us on the first Wednesday of every month for DISTRACTD — a warm, neurodivergent-affirming event series exploring ADHD, autism and neurodiversity. Each month features a curated theme and expert speakers from psychology, psychiatry, education, medicine, therapy and lived experience.Designed for neurodivergent individuals, parents, teens, teachers, clinicians, and anyone who lives or works alongside ND brains. Expect diverse perspectives, practical insights, Q&As and community connection.Calm lighting, lower volume levels, breakout spaces, flexible seating and an armband system help make the environment sensory-friendly.All ages welcome. Free to attend.
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03 Jul 2026 - 26 Jun 2026
Gold Coast Hinterland Nature Adventures for Kids (School Holidays)
Birdwings Forest School offers Kids Nature Adventures in the Gold Coast Hinterland, providing visiting families with a unique, nature-based day camp experience for children aged 5–12 years. Set across bushland, rainforest, creeks, and open spaces, the program invites participants to spend the day exploring, creating, and connecting with nature.Guided by experienced nature mentors and forest school leaders, participants engage in bushcrafts, handcrafts, creek play, and campfire cooking within a natural adventure playground. With no gear required, this fully facilitated experience offers a meaningful alternative to theme parks and typical holiday activities.Located in Guanaba, near Mt Tamborine, it's ideal for families visiting the Gold Coast. While children are immersed in nature, parents can enjoy exploring the surrounding hinterland. Bookings are essential for this small-group experience.
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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.