Let Aviary Rooftop Bar take the reigns this Melbourne Cup.
Let Aviary Rooftop Bar take the reigns this Melbourne Cup.
Now that we’ve found ourselves firmly planted in the latter half of the year (we’ll spare you the existential crisis re: how, what and why that can possibly be) there’s a few verrrry notable dates looming in the trusty social calendar, one of which happens to be a modest little event known as the Melbourne Cup.. you might have heard of it?
Just horsing around friends, bc we are of course referring to the race that stops the nation #nbd And Phar out, it’s already time to dust off the ol’ faithful fascinator (*cough* or treat yourself to a new one) because the beloved spring spectacle is back again #giddyup
If the mare thought of frocking up for a flutter already has you chomping at the bit, you neigh-d to know that Aviary Bar’s hotly anticipated Rooftop Races event is gearing up to return in very fine form for another year.
Take one action-packed race + add in some spring vibes + a swanky rooftop rendezvous, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate #trifecta of cracking Cup day’s in-steed.
Step one to crushing your Cup day (securing #thefrock, being step two, obvs) is to get those hot little hands on tix for you and the crew, like ASAP – bc this event is always a #sellout.
For $149pp, or $189pp VIP aka Very Important Punters, you’ll be treated to three glorious hours of the full food and bevvy treatment, living large and soaking up those sweeping views of the Gold Coast skyline from atop the hottest rooftop in the North(ern GC). Note these are early bird prices so jump on them as they won’t last long.
And we don’t want to date ourselves here, but if you’re also of the gen that first got to experience the nation’s big race on a dusty old TV set wheeled from the depths of a musty school storage closet, we can never quite resist the call of a fancy little race day soiree #ohhowfarwe’vecome.
The arvo will be off and racing from 12pm, where the beer and wine will free-flowing, while the the stunning alfresco surrounds of the Aviary Bar will be well equipped to handle all the glitz and glamour of race day fashions, dahlings.
If you want to up the ante on your race day par-tay, opt for the extra spesh VIP package – which includes an additional selection of spirits and the exclusive pop up menu of four Garden Spritz options to partake in.
Once you’re certain your thirst has been sufficiently quenched, sidle on up to the delish array of morsels that await you on the grazing table – loaded with savoury and sweet treats and canapes.
And last but not least, we will absolutely be needing a pizza of those woodfired Signature Pizzas #onrepeat (they don’t call them ‘Signature’ for nothin’).
So there you have it, a surefire way to slay your Cup day. Unless, that is, you horse around for too long and miss out – a #hottip straight from the horse’s mouth, those with larger groups should get in sooner rather than later to ensure availability – and your own designated area #fancy.
We really don’t mean to nag, but these tix always sell out, so gather the fillies and gallop on over to secure your spot for an epic spring fling to remember.
For more information or to purchase tickets go here.
Where: 5 Melia Ct, Southport
When: 12pm – 3pm, 7 November
STORY SPONSORED BY SOUTHPORT SHARKS
The Star Gold Coast is the odds-on favourite to rein in the fun.
Hold your horses, Gold Coasters! The Melbourne Cup is galloping towards us, and The Star Gold Coast is saddling up for a day of glitz, glamour, and good times that’ll leave you chomping at the bit. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just in it for the fashion, food and frivolity, The Star has a stable full of options that are sure to be the ‘mane’ event of your Cup Day.
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Restaurant
This GC institution is serving up a three-course lunch that’s more satisfying than a perfect trifecta, paired with a three-hour beverage package. With live entertainment by the Huddy Faulkner Duo, Fashions off the Field, and a special guest MC, you’re in for a galloping good time! Tickets are $195 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Booth
Ok this one sells out faster than Kingston Rule ran back in 1990 so get on it quick smart! Be the ultimate lady (or lad) that lunches with two premium platters, a three-hour beverage package, live entertainment by Huddy Faulkner Duo, and a special guest MC, you’re in and Fashions off the Field. $2,000 per booth for a maximum of 15 people (that’s only $133 per person if you have the full 15!).
Grab your tickets here.
The Lawn
From the moment the gates fly open to the final glass is raised, a fancy picnic-style celebration on The Lawn is a front-runner this Melbourne Cup Day. Watch the live action on the mega screen and enjoy two decadent platters, a three-hour beverage package, Fashions off the Field, and an epic lineup of live entertainment. Tickets are $600 per high-top (four adults), $900 per high-top (six adults), and $1,500 per picnic table* (maximum 10 adults).
Also on The Lawn, the ‘rein’ing queen of the dance world, DJ Havana Brown, will be on the decks for the ultimate post-race party. The best part? You can mosey on over and watch her spinning up a storm for free! Gi-gi-gi-gimme!
Grab your tickets here.
Cucina Vivo
Giddy up and gallop over to Cucina Vivo for a lunch oozing Italian elegance and fabulous Flemington flair! Indulge in a winning three-course lunch paired with a three-hour beverage package that’ll guarantee a strapping good time. There’s also live tunes by the Kent Dustin Duo, Fashions off the Field to crown the best-dressed filly, and a special guest MC to steer the day’s festivities. Tickets are $199 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Nineteen at The Star
Restaurant
Saddle up high rollers because at Nineteen at The Star (Restaurant), they’re taking Melbourne Cup to new heights – literally! Perched on the 19th floor, this elegant venue offers panoramic views that will delight even the fanciest of fillies. Enjoy a four-course lunch and beverage package, live racing screens, MC Liz Cantor, and Fashions on the Rooftop. Get ready to ‘trot’ your stuff! Tickets are $375 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Bar
This iconic rooftop venue is transforming into the ultimate cocktail party, complete with “Fashions on the Rooftop,” live racing on big screens, and vibes brought to you by DJ Dezastar. Enjoy roaming oyster shuckers, a premium 3-hour canapé package, and indulge in a 4-hour beverage package that includes a glass of Veuve Clicquot on arrival.
Hosted by the fabulous Liz Cantor, it’s the perfect setting for an elegant race day celebration.
Grab your tickets here.
Harvest Buffet
Large groups, listen up! Harvest Buffet is THE go-to for party seekers looking to soak up the pristine pool vibes and a premium seafood buffet, including two chocolate fountains (yes, we said TWO!). Don’t forget the three-hour beverage package (umm, as if), Fashions off the Field, live entertainment with Rene Le Feuvre, and guest MC, local radio icon Moyra Major! Tickets are $140 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Sports Bar
Terrace Package
There’s no place where the Melbourne Cup vibes are vibier than the Sports Bar so frock up or suit up with the Terrace Package for all the live and loud surround sound racing action. Including premium roaming canapes, a complimentary drink on arrival, 20+ screens, state of the art TAB facilities, a cash bar and of course, exclusive access to The Terrace, it’s Sports Bar for the win. Tickets are $95 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Booth Package
Fancy front-row seats to take in the horseplay? Then you want a private booth at Sports Bar with up to 10 of your best mates. Lap up a $600 food and bev tab, two All Star Platters with 500g chicken wings, salt and pepper calamari, mozzarella sticks, and chips), three garlic breads, three cheesy garlic breads, and branded merch with access to state-of-the-art TAB facilities. $1,200 per booth (that’s only $120 per person with a gang of 10).
Grab your tickets here.
Free Post-Race Entertainment
The Lawn, Garden Kitchen Bar
Don’t miss Australia’s own DJ superstar Havana Brown getting on the decks to keep the party going between 4.30pm and 6pm.
Atrium Bar
For the ultimate post-race party, Atrium Bar is the obvious choice with live DJs pumping out the tunes from the early afternoon. It’s the perfect way to keep the festivities going long after the last horse has crossed the finish line – and it’s free!
Cherry Bar
Another venue serving up charon-hay and other delicious drops is Cherry Bar. Head on over to this luxurious space in main gaming floor for kick-ons and live beats from The Fontosi Bros Duo, DJ Mister P, and DJ Libre. With free entry and a lavish insta-famous 22 metre bar, it would be rude not to.
The Star Grand Hotel Offer
And finally, if ever there was a time to spoil yourself with a luxurious staycation, Melbourne Cup is it. A (minimum) two-night stay in a superior deluxe king/twin room between Sunday 3 November and Friday 8 November will set you back a mere $199 per night (conditions and booking dates apply, subject to availability). Neigh way!!
For tickets and more information on any of the above, stirrup some Cup fun at The Star here.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Various activations on Tuesday 5th November
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be over 18 years to enter the casino, Atrium Bar and Sports Bar. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 gamblinghelpqld.org.au
Good coffee, great food and city vibes.
Our sweet, sweet So-Po. There’s something we just love about Southport, maybe it’s the fact that they’ve got bulk bars and restaurants so hunger never has to enter our vocabulary again. Or maybe it’s how you can get a coffee hit and hit of golf done in half a day and then soak up those Broadwater views for the rest of it – shall we go on?
All we know is that there are so many goodies in this CBD gem we couldn’t list them all or you’d be here all day and we know you’re all about less reading and more doing! (same). Here’s our round-up of local approved must-do’s!
The retailers in Southport get that you’re busy – it is the CBD after all – so time is of the essence and efficiency is the word over here. Brickworks Ferry Rd has everything from the Standard Market Co to get those dinner essentials or to make the perfect charcuterie boards, to Cardamom Pod, bring those ‘gram-worthy acai bowls and a brunch menu that will have you coming back for more.
Upping the ante with a little bit of everything, Queen Street Village is just off the Smith St Motorway, so you can pop in for the essentials from gourmet grocer Jones & Co IGA. No time to meal prep? Grab some Asian eats at Wu Kong with peckish plates to keep you going, or a classic pub feed from The Queen’s Arms for your parmy fix. When all that eating has got you zonked, get your caffeine hit at Sens Coffee and pop into DENDY to catch the latest flicks and a moment of peace and quiet.
Now, did we hear you say retail therapy? Enter: Australia Fair. With the big names in fashion all in one spot, along with our biggest vice Kmart, on the store list, say goodbye to your savings, but hello to a fresh new look. Once you’ve shopped till you dropped, it’s time to start your Tour-de-Food at Australia Fair Metro, think pho, dumplings and desserts by the dozen.
No man is left behind at Made With Love who delivers on 100% vegan cakes, pies and pastries– because you know what they say, a doughnut a day keeps the doctor away…or something like that. And why should our vegans not be part of the action?!
Keeping the Euro-bakery vibes rolling is 5B2F Ciabatta, the Southport spin-off from the cult-fave Chirn Park bakehouse, slinging everything from flaky croissants and glossy danishes to ciabatta sandwiches stuffed with all the good things (hello truffle ham and cheese toastie). It’s a grab-and-go carb paradise where sourdough, dreamy pastries and show-stopping cakes are baked fresh daily – basically your daily bread, but make it boujee.
Coffee addicts, Southport’s got you covered with experiences like SupermarCat Cat Café, which – you guessed it – comes with a side of kitty cuddles with your caffeine fix, it’s so good we won’t judge if you start purring along with your furry friends.
For the more traditional café vibe, Humble Café might be humble by name, but they’re big on variety from classic cold drips to matcha espresso.
Joining the caffeine crew, but with a twist, is Yellow & Butter. Tucked neatly inside Cloud 9 Car Wash, they’ve officially upgraded your car washing experience with a side of brunch. Our advice is to start with the cheesecake!
Cheek Café serves up wholesome bites, knockout coffee and top-tier banter, all wrapped in a peachy-pink, personality-packed space. While Broadwater Café is a local fave for its stellar brews and arguably the most scenic sip spot in Southport. Coffee with a side of waterfront wow.
If you prefer your coffee topped with cold foam, or paired with a sweet treat on the side (hello, Dubai Mochi Cookie) Milestone should be at the top of your hit list.
You already know we’re partial to a cold beverage to round out the day, but if you’re after a side of live music with that, then Vinnies Dive is the only place to get your fix and an ice-cold brew all in one.
Just across the tram line, nothing says Southport more than a cocktail (or 5) on Mr PP’s rooftop, perched above Nerang Street so you can people watch till your heart’s content. Keeping the rooftop vibes going strong, Aviary Rooftop at Southport Sharks have an epic cocktail menu that talks a big game, and luckily for us, it doesn’t just live up to expectations – it’s even better.
Also at Southport Sharks, Kaktus Bar is your go-to for a vibrant cocktail. Yep, this place delivers a thirst-quenching margarita as you’ve never tasted. One of those (or a few), paired with live music and a lineup of tacos, and you have yourself a fiesta!
Carafe Wine is an eco-conscious space offering top-notch wine from all the most renowned vino regions and zero-waste practices, plus a unique menu of sharing boards.
Hello foodies, thought we forgot about you? We could never! Kicking us off is the Japanese eatery, KatsuCo which churns out iterations of its namesake dish – traditionally coated in crunchy panko crumb and slathered in curry sauce.
For those on-the-go looking for the ultimate grab-and-go, Shiro Gelato & Snack knows what’s up with a selection of Japanese market eats like housemade Onigiri to get you fueled up and ready to tackle the day and gelato to finish because there’s always room for a sweetie treatie.
River House brings waterfront dining to the table with relaxed Broadwater views and a modern menu that works just as well for long lunches as it does for sunset dinners.
A bit of a two-in-one is Fire Baby & Ember. Upstairs, Fire Baby serves up comfort by the slice; wood-fired pizzas crafted from premium ingredients. Downstairs, Ember is where you can get flame-licked steaks and charcoal-grilled seafood.
Since we’re on a food journey around the world, you’ll be happy to know that Southport is pretty much THE place to get your Korean BBQ fix – yep, we found and 6 smokin’ hot Korean BBQ spots on the GC and would you believe 5 of them call our humble CBD home. Yep, Southport officially has a license to grill.
So, you’ve got your coffee fix and tum full- now you’re looking to get at one with nature? Obviously, your next stop has to be Broadwater Parklands. It doesn’t matter if you’re just there for a hot girl walk or trying to find a way to keep your tribe occupied, the shared pathway makes it the ultimate for everyone, whether you’re in your running era or just keen to take in the Broadwater views while you bike and play.
Fancy a bit more adventure, we hear you say? We got you. Tee off for a full day of fun at Southport Golf Club so you can let your inner Tiger Woods run wild on the green. If land has got you feeling like a fish out of water, then pop on over to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre for a mermaid moment with things like group fitness classes – hello aqua aerobics – as well as Olympic-length swimming pools for the pros and splash pads for the little tackers.
If you’re keen to try something a little different, the Gold Coast Indoor Shooting Centre and The Shooting Centre both deliver a high-adrenaline experience with a strong focus on safety and guidance, making them approachable for first-timers and seasoned shooters alike.
If switching off and resetting is more your vibe, Vikasati Bathhouse is Southport’s answer to full-body bliss, offering hot and cold pools, saunas and spa-style experiences designed to melt stress away without ever leaving the city.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
