An Introduction to Queensland's Gold Coast
Get Acquainted With Australia's Leading Tourist Destination
Oct 6, 2009
The Gold Coast continues to be one of Australia's most popular playgrounds. It caters extremely well to locals and tourists alike. Whether it be a romantic getaway on the agenda, or a fun-filled family adventure holiday, the Gold Coast has much to choose from.
The Gold Coast is a One Hour Drive South of Brisbane, Queensland's Capital City
The Gold Coast is located on the east coast of Australia in the state of Queensland. It is one of the states most southern cities and is situated 100 kms south of Brisbane, and about 900kms north of Sydney (NSW’s capital city).
The population stands at almost 500,000 and continues to draw new residents from national, and international locations. A glorious climate, casual lifestyle and the surrounding natural beauty are contributing factors in making the Gold Coast the ideal place to live.
The Gold Coast has much to offer. It’s biggest drawcard is the stunning 70kms of coastline which includes some of the world’s best beaches like Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach and the ever popular Surfers Paradise.
Many residential areas are on a canal system. Head inland toward the mountain ranges. Stop to take in the breathtaking views, lush rainforests, and spectacular waterfalls. It’s little wonder the Gold Coast continues to be one of Australia’s leading tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Gold Coast Climate is Sub-Tropical
- Summer: Average temperatures range from 19 to 29 degrees Celsius (66 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Winter: Average temperatures range from 9 to 21 degrees Celsius (48 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit).
Gold Coast Theme Parks, Beaches, Shopping, National Parks and Other Attractions
The Gold Coast offers a wide range of attractions during the summer and winter months. These include:
- Beaches. Swim in the ocean which has an average temperature of 22 degrees. Surf lessons are available for those who wish to catch a wave or two.
- Waterways and canal systems provide a host of activities including jet boat adventure rides, jet ski hire, kayaking, parasailing, whale watching (June to November), fishing charters.
- Take to the air in a helicopter or seaplane and peruse the Gold Coast with a bird’s eye view, or experience the thrill of a ride in a Tiger Moth vintage aircraft, just like the Red Baron.
- Botanic Gardens, parks and playgrounds provide space to picnic, walk, and enjoy leisurely time with family and friends. Visit Lamington National Park and Tamborine Mountain to experience a dose of crisp, clean air and rainforest habitats.
- Major shopping centres, boutiques, speciality stores, discount outlets, markets.
- Dining options include outdoor casual cafes, multi-cultural cuisine, and 5 star restaurants.
- Apart from numerous nightclubs, Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant offers night time entertainment. Conrad Jupiters Casino has dinner and show packages. For Friday night laughs, the Gold Coast Arts Centre Comedy Club is the place to be.
- Theme Parks, wild life and bird sanctuaries, world class sporting and training facilities, day and night golf.
- Accommodation options range from camping grounds and facilities to top-class international resorts
Stay Surf and Sun Smart
A dip in the ocean sounds inviting, yet it can also be extremely dangerous. Beneath the surface, rips and tides can take lives. To the untrained eye, what might seem at first glance to be safe conditions, can actually land you in serious trouble.
The Gold Coast is home to many lifesaving clubs whose volunteers make it their business to oversee safe swimming conditions. Always swim between the flags and never venture into the water without telling someone where you are going. Do not swim under the influence of alcohol.
Although a day in the sun and the idea of a golden sun-kissed tan sounds inviting, the sun’s rays are harmful and can be a major contributor to skin cancer.
Most Australians are familiar with the slogan ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’. This originated in 1981 when the Cancer Council Australia launched one of the most successful health, sun-smart campaigns in Australian history.
The essential message is: Slip on a shirt, slop on sun cream, and slap on a hat.
Before enjoying the Queensland sun, protect your skin and avoid sunburn. The sun can be at its harshest between 10am and 2pm.
Explore the Gold Coast via Buses, Trains, Cabs, Ferries and Water Taxis
The Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle offers a door-to-door transfer service from the Gold Coast airport in Coolangatta to your appointed accommodation. It also runs between theme parks.
Surfside bus lines is the main bus service with an extensive route and timetable for the Gold Coast and Tweed region, which is located just over the border in northern New South Wales
Translink, the Government rail system, operates between Robina and Brisbane’s Southbank. Beyond this point, the Airtrain runs to Brisbane airport.
Ferries and Water Taxis operate along the canals and waterways
Car rentals, scooter hire, and taxis provide further options in getting out and about on the Gold Coast
Up-coming Events and Entertainment on the Gold Coast
Whether you are a local or a visitor to the Gold Coast, below is a list of up-coming events to enjoy for the month of October and November 2009.
October
- 8th – 11th: Craft Extravaganza Christmas Affair at Tamborine Mountain
- 17th: Charmaine Wilson Spirit Whispers at Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre
- 22nd – 25th: 2009 SuperGP (previously Gold Coast Indy) at Surfers Paradise
- 25th – 30th: Mitsubishi Motors Masters Golf Championship at various Gold Coast golf courses.
- 31st: The Fairies – Fairy Tales & Nursery Rhymes Tour at the Gold Coast Arts Centre
November
- 5th: Arj Baker – Original Style Bits ‘n’ Pieces at the Gold Coast Arts Centre
- 13th – 15th: Couples Carnival at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre
- 14th: Diesel Hits & Blues Tour at Twin Towns
- 16th: Gold Coast Multicultural Festival at Carrara Stadium Grounds
- 21st: Brian Cadd & Russell Morris at Twin Towns
- 27th – 28th: Faulty Towers – The Dining Experience at Twin Towns
With so much to see and do on the Gold Coast, be sure to plan ahead. Enjoy the waterways, golden beaches and verdant national parks. Make the most of the endless activities to ensure your stay is a memorable one.
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