Laneway Festival founders.
Laneway Festival founders.
Laneway is blowing out 21 candles this summer, and instead of a quiet grown-up dinner, it’s celebrating by crashing onto the Gold Coast for the very first time.
After a record-smashing, sold-out run across Australia and New Zealand last year, the festival is set to make its GC debut at Southport Sharks on Saturday 7 February 2026, bringing its globally loved mix of culture-shaping artists, future icons, and “I saw them before they were big” bragging rights. With more than 30,000 fans expected and names like Lorde, Billie Eilish and Fred again.. among its alumni, Laneway’s arrival is a huge win for the city.
We caught up with co-founders Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio to chat dreamers, lineups, wild memories, and what this new chapter means for the Coast.
DANNY ROGERS
It’s been 21 incredible years since Laneway began in that tiny Melbourne laneway. When you think back to those early days, did you ever imagine it would grow into the trans-Tasman cultural institution it is today?
Not in my wildest dreams. Back then, we just wanted to throw a really fun party that celebrated great music and friendships – there was no business plan, no five-year strategy. I’m not even sure we fully understood what a production schedule or an artist run sheet was! The journey since has been extraordinary. We’ve had the privilege of hosting so many of our favourite artists, and meeting countless incredible people along the way who’ve become part of the Laneway story.
This year marks a major milestone – the festival’s first-ever Gold Coast edition! What made the Coast the perfect new home for Laneway, and what can locals expect from this debut?
I’ve been coming to the Gold Coast for years. My family and I lived nearby in the Northern Rivers, so I’ve always felt connected to the area – especially around Southport, where we’re holding the festival. The Gold Coast is fast becoming one of the most culturally vibrant parts of Australia. The local council is incredibly supportive of events and creative initiatives, which isn’t always the case elsewhere. Our early impression is that the Gold Coast genuinely embraces culture and creativity, and that’s really exciting to be part of.
Bringing Laneway to the Gold Coast feels like a fresh chapter. Beyond the music, what elements of the Coast do you think align perfectly with the Laneway ethos?
The Gold Coast is a city for dreamers – and that’s exactly what we are.
Laneway has always had a knack for spotting future stars before the world catches on. What’s been your secret to curating such fresh and forward-thinking lineups year after year?
Honestly, we’re just massive music fans. We don’t rely on data or algorithms like a lot of festivals do – it’s all instinct, passion, and great relationships with like-minded people around the world. We’re constantly talking about new artists and sharing discoveries. That’s how we find the acts that feel exciting and alive. There’s nothing more rewarding than giving a platform to emerging artists who’ve been working tirelessly to get their music out there – helping them reach new audiences, even just for a moment, is the best feeling in the world.
JEROME BORAZIO
The festival scene has changed a lot over the past two decades. How has Laneway evolved to stay true to its roots while adapting to the times?
Laneway Festival has always been about celebrating emerging talent and creating an intimate, community-focused atmosphere. Over the past two decades, we’ve evolved by staying attuned to the changing music landscape and audience preferences. While we’ve maintained our commitment to showcasing innovative artists, we’ve also embraced new genres and technologies, enhancing the festival experience through digital engagement and sustainable practices. Our focus remains on curating a lineup that reflects the spirit of discovery, ensuring that we stay true to our roots while adapting to the evolving cultural landscape.
Looking at the 2026 lineup, who are you most excited to see hit the stage and why?
It’s a toss up between the Dare and Geese! They will both bring very different energies to highly anticipated live shows.
You’ve hosted Laneway in cities across Australia and New Zealand. Do you have a standout memory or moment from a past show that perfectly sums up the spirit of the festival?
A moment that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Laneway was when Florence Welch, of Florence and The Machine, scaled the lighting tower during her first ever performance in Melbourne. An absolute breathtaking sight that not only thrilled the audience but also showcased her incredible connection with the crowd. As she whipped them into a frenzy, her powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence created an unforgettable atmosphere. This moment highlighted what Laneway is all about: the electrifying energy of live music, the unpredictability of live performances, and the ability of artists to create genuine, shared experiences. It’s these unique, unexpected moments that truly define the essence of our festival and remind us why we do what we do.
Finally, after 21 years of unforgettable moments, what’s been the single most rewarding part of this journey – and what’s next for Laneway as you look ahead to the next decade?
After 21 years, the most rewarding part of this journey has undoubtedly been the incredible team behind Laneway Festival. Their passion, creativity, and hard work bring the festival to life each year, ensuring that every detail resonates with our vision. It’s truly inspiring to witness the positive responses from the crowd – seeing fans connect with the music and each other is what fuels our efforts. As we look ahead to the next decade, we aim to continue nurturing emerging talent and exploring innovative ways to enhance the festival experience. We’re excited to embrace new technologies, expand our sustainability initiatives, and deepen our engagement with local communities, all while staying true to the core values that have defined Laneway from the beginning.
Get amongst sweet street art, murals, workshops and more!
Get ready to feel things – mostly excitement and maybe a bit of paint under your nails – because Surface Festival is making its glorious return to Miami from 29th June to 13th July, and she’s bringing big arty energy.
With murals, music, skate sessions, workshops, and colour explosions at every turn, this two-week creative bender is proudly whipped up by the legends at Miami Marketta. Here are six reasons to grab your mates, your helmet and maybe a smock – things are about to get messy in the best way possible.
We’re talking a full day of fun to kick off the fest. First up, Slick Surfaces on Saturday 29th June from 10am brings the kid-friendly chaos with skate clinics, DJ workshops, LEGO building, creative stations and even a chance to sticker up your skateboard. Tickets are just $15 per child, adults free.
Stick around for Overspray from 5pm, a skater-meets-street-art block party for the big kids, with a cash-prize skate comp, live mural painting, beats, eats, brews and more. Entry = $0. Good times = guaranteed.
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Throughout the two-week fest, Surface’s signature large-scale murals return, seeing twelve of Australia’s most exciting street artists transform 1500 sqm of black wall space into living canvases! Whether you follow the official program map or just let your feet (or wheels) lead the way, you’ll catch Miami’s laneways, buildings, and fences come alive with fresh paint, bold ideas, and serious Instagram potential.
Where: various locations, check program map.
The crown jewel of the fest, this 5km art trail turns fences, laneways and random street corners into an outdoor gallery with hundreds of works to discover. Whether you’re on two wheels, four wheels, or just using your legs (go you!), don’t forget to schedule coffee/snack stops at Whyld Coffee, Paddock Bakery or Granddad Jack’s. The event is free to the public from 29th June – 13th July.
Where: various locations, check program map.
Join in on the Surface festivity with a series of immersive workshops on offer!
Budding aerosol artists can join graffiti veteran James Smalls on Sunday, 30th June from 9.30am–12.30pm for a spray-paint masterclass suitable for ages 12 and up.
If something a little more refined is your style, there’s a life drawing session at Studio 56 on 2nd July from 6pm–9pm, where cheese boards are on offer and perfection is boring.
Paint & Sip with Thea Skelsey on 13th July from 2pm–4pm at The Miami Shores will bring the vino and the vibes, while Heartfill’s Bad Pet Portraits on 5th July offer free hilarious artwork of your furry friends that you didn’t know you needed until now.
Where: various locations, check program map.
You can always rely on Miami Marketta to bring a packed lineup of gigs that’ll keep the winter chill at bay. Kicking off the Surface Festival, Pierce Brothers hit the stage on Friday, 27th June, supported by Flunn Gurry for a night of high-energy folk-pop.
Then, all month long, the laneway lights up with bands like Overspray and Best Served Loud and free live music every Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm at the Marketta.
Frothy Fest wraps it all up with a surf-rock blowout on Saturday, 12th July!
Where: Miami Marketta, 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Surface Festival is proudly produced by the crew at Miami Marketta alongside Miami’s creative community, with support from City of Gold Coast.
Where: All over Miami, Gold Coast
When: Saturday 29th June – Sunday 13th July 2025
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
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
