Make your May a month-long fiesta with The Star.
Make your May a month-long fiesta with The Star.
Somehow May is officially upon us, and while the weather is finally cooling down #praisebe, the GC entertainment options are really hotting up as we officially peel ourselves away from the beach and all our fave summer activities. While most of us are preparing to hang up our togs and DT’s for a few months (boo!), The Star has been busy pulling out all the stops to ensure the fun and frivolities don’t go into hibernation, too.
Starting with the most pressing matter of all – because if you haven’t already got something epic lined up for Mother’s Day – this is your sign. Never fear all you last-minute Larry’s, because while it’s no secret The Star is rather accustomed to hosting the odd rockstar or VIP, this month they’re rolling out the red carpet for the biggest rockstar of all – Mum!
The Star has gone all out with Mum’s Day line-up that’s tighter than a pair of jeans at a buffet, which is ironic because of course their famous seafood buffet spread is just one of five gourmet feast options to choose from.
Mother’s Day
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Graze (and gossip) the day away with one of the Garden Kitchen & Bar’s signature platters, with a glass of complimentary sparkling wine, all we have to say is #winenotspoilmum
Cucina Vivo
If you want to upgrade your graze to a certified food coma, nothing quite says ‘ti amo Mum’ like an indulgent Italian feast – with a 3-course shared menu and 2.5 hour beverage package, there’s sure to be decadence and merriment all round (and you get all the credit for arranging such a sweet soirée)
Kiyomi
Innovative Japanese eats, with a complimentary glass of Chandon accompanying any of the set menu offerings. Chan-don’t be sleeping on this opportunity to treat Mum to an exquisite wine and dine experience.
Harvest Buffet
If you really want to go all out (because let’s face it, our Mumma bears are worth it), head straight to Harvest Buffet, do not pass go – but do collect an indulgent all-you-can-eat feast fit for even the most discerning sea(foodies) among us. There are canapés on arrival (ooh, fancy!) and Mum really will be getting the Star treatment with a glass of sparking to sip as well.
Uncle Su
Last but not least, if Mum’s speed is a little more sweet and spicy, you know Uncle Su is where it’s at. Wok Mum’s world with a choice between the mouth watering a-la-carte menu, or opt for the indulgent banquet. And the obligatory glass of sparking wine for all Mothers on arrival will also set the tone for an un-bubble-lievable time.
Eats
Now we’ve got Mum sorted, it’s time to turn our attention to another notable date of celebration this month (and no, we’re not talking about #maythe4th sorry all you Star Wars fans) because you can’t have May without Cinco de Mayo, our fave excuse to celebrate our love of all things Mexican. While Cinco de Mayo officially falls on the 5th, The Star is keeping the fiesta going all month long.
Book yourself in for the v. exclusive (one night only!) Herradura Cocktail Masterclass, complete with Mexican inspired snacks. Learn how to make a top notch Marg and Paloma while you nibble on a selection of empanadas, guacamole & corn chips #drool. I really regret learning to make world-class cocktails – said no one ever. You’ll be salty if you miss out, so draw a lime around May 5th on the calendar – tickets are $79 per adult – and you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour!
But if you’re still traumatised from that one time you attempted to build your own flat pack furniture and you prefer your cocktails to come, er, a little more – pre-assembled – you can also grab one of the Cinco de Mayo inspired cocktails during May. There’s a different one to try at each of their dedicated watering holes, which kind of sounds like a grown up scavenger hunt – fun! Word to the wise – if you haven’t yet wrapped your lips around the delicacy that is a spicy coconut marg – do yourself a favour and grab a Herradura Coconut Spicy Margarita at the Garden Kitchen & Bar – or perhaps a Herradura Amber Margarita with Herradura Silver, Aperol, lime, mango puree, agave syrup from Veladora for those who like a little less spice in their life *resists urge to quote Spice Girls*.
What’s better than lunch? Why, a boozy looong lunch of course #cheersbigears. Rounding out the culinary delights on offer this month, you can also indulge at Cucina Vivo’s Prosecco long lunch #justbecause – it’s a 3-Course Share-style Italian Lunch (yum) with 2.5 Hour Dal Zotto Prosecco Drink & Aperol Spritz Package. As if the vibes won’t already be high enough, there’s live music to top it all off. You’ll have to leave your calendar, and your stretchiest outfit free for Saturday, 27 May 2023 12pm – 2.30pm.
Entertainment
If it’s sweet tunes you’re in the mood for, get ready for the star studded lineup of artists ready to rock your socks off this May. Headliners on the lawn delivers the surefire trifecta for a good time: live music, delish food and drink, and the chance to soak up the outdoor atmosphere of our balmy Autumn nights here on the coast. Setting the tone for this month there’s the dynamic fusion of rock folk tunes from Austin Mackay, the soul funk stylings of vocal powerhouse Lisa Hunt, and none other than The Voice winner Karise Eden with her voice that is known to move a nation. The best part, entry is free – so now you’ve got no excuse to head out and get your groove on for good times galore.
When: Friday 12th & 26th May – Lisa Hunt
Saturday 6th May – Austin Mackay
Saturday 20th May – Karise Eden
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Various activations throughout May
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
We know the places to make your Mama Bear feel spesh.
Gold Coasters, do we detect the slightest notes of aromatherapy oils, artisan tea blends and fresh-baked scones filling the air? Yep, that’s right – Mother’s Day is just around the corner!
But fret not if you’re yet to line up anything plush in honour of Mama dearest. All across the Coast, our most fanciful eats, fun and self-care purveyors are putting the finishing touches on myriad ways to spoil the OG lady in our lives.
Here are a few ideas that go some way towards expressing our eternal gratitude this Mother’s Day. Hint: you can defo skip the servo flowers.
Now, we’re not saying anyone’s posh, but if Mum appreciates a refined spread, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove is serving up a Mother’s Day Pink High Tea with plenty of flair at Cove Café. Sip on a glass of sparkling Bimbadgen Moscato on arrival before diving into a seasonal lineup of elegant bites like Slow-cooked Toowoomba beef brisket doughnut, Lobster & tarragon vol-au-vent, plus sweet treats including raspberry macarons and tropical passionfruit tartelettes. Of course, there are classic and lemon myrtle scones with all the trimmings, alongside delicate finger sandwiches.
Priced at $89 per adult and $30 per child (aged 5–12), bookings are essential for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 12pm. Sunday is now fully booked, and there is limited space for Saturday, so get your bookings locked in quickly here.
Where: Cove Café, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Sanctuary Cove, where waterfront views and feel-good moments set the scene for a day to remember. Head to the Marine Village for a complimentary retro Kombi photo booth on the Village Green from 10am to 2pm, complete with printed snaps and the chance to win a luxe Hunter Valley getaway.
Make a day of it with long lunches, bubbles by the water or a little retail therapy, with plenty of dining options across the precinct. Think a two-course feast at Red’s Kitchen & Bar, live music and giveaways at Cove Tavern, a blush-toned Pink High Tea at Cove Café, or a festive feast at Pablito’s.
Happening Sunday 10 May, this is your go-to for a relaxed yet elevated Mother’s Day by the marina. For information on all the offers and activities, click here.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
If Mum’s love language is luxury (and let’s be honest… it probably is), JW Marriott Gold Coast is pulling out all the stops with their seriously elegant High Tea by JW at Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge.
Start things right with a glass of Moët and Chandon Rosé Champagne on arrival, before settling in for a beautifully curated spread of handcrafted sweet and savoury delights from the resort’s talented pastry team. Tea is served in stunning Cristina Re teacups with 24-carat gold detailing, adding an extra layer of sophistication to an already special experience.
There are even a few extra surprises in store, including the chance to win limited edition “Mum” mugs, so the spoiling doesn’t stop at the last sip.
Priced at $109 per person, with sittings at 10:30am and 1:30pm on Sunday 10th May, this is one Mother’s Day treat she will not forget. Book here.
Where: Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Is Mum a fan of the finer things, but you know it’s quali-tea time that really fills her (tea)cup? Ditch the daisies and dial up the indulgence with QT Gold Coast’s Mother’s Day QTea High Tea. Think tiered towers stacked with standout bites like duck bombolini with truffle aioli, beef brisket and ratatouille tarts, smoked salmon en croute, plus sweet treats including Ferrero-inspired delights, cassis macarons and strawberry basil cheesecake. There are bubbles (or even a craft beer), plus tea or espresso coffee to keep the good times pouring.
Priced at $99 per adult (including a glass of G.H. Mumm Rosé Champagne), $85 per teen and $39 per child, bookings are available for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 11:30am to 2pm (two-hour sittings). Book here.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Palette Restaurant at HOTA is serving up a Mother’s Day lunch that’s as impressive as she is. Set inside the Gold Coast’s only three-hatted restaurant, this is your cue to swap brekkie in bed for something a little more elevated.
Settle in for a long, leisurely lunch filled with beautifully plated, seasonal dishes that are equal parts art and flavour. Think standout plates like Australian bay lobster with brioche, char siu beef with crispy eggplant, and dreamy desserts starring feijoa or caramelised pineapple. It’s all thoughtfully curated and perfectly paired with a glass of wine or beer, because Mum deserves nothing less.
Choose between two courses for $85 or go all out with three for $100, with sittings from 11am on Sunday 10th May. Consider this your sign to book now and favourite child status is basically guaranteed. Book here.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Everyone’s favourite Surfers Paradise shopping centre, Paradise Centre, is dialling things up this Mother’s Day with cool-mum energy and experiences to match. Forget the predictable pressies, this year it’s all about margaritas at El Camino Cantina, axe throwing at MANIAX, fresh piercings at Lovisa or even a cheeky tattoo at Celebrity Ink.
There’s plenty happening across the weekend, from mums throwing for free at MANIAX (with a paying guest) to mystery gift boxes at Unique Trendz Boutique, plus escape room adventures at Padlock’d (with complimentary chocolates for Mum). TGI Fridays is also getting in on the action, with a complimentary dessert for mums when you book ahead.
From shopping perks to hands-on fun, Paradise Centre is your one-stop spot to spoil Mum (and have a little fun while you’re at it). Find out more information here.
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Spoil Mum your way at The Star Gold Coast this Mother’s Day, with a lineup of dining, indulgence and a little bit of everything in between. From Italian favourites at Cucina Vivo to fresh seafood feasts at Harvest Buffet, plus Japanese dining at Kiyomi and yum cha or banquets at Uncle Su, there’s something to suit every kind of celebration. You can even take things up a notch with sky-high dining at Nineteen at The Star.
If relaxation is more her style, treat Mum to a little downtime with a 90-minute escape at Azure Spa, or turn the whole day into a staycation she won’t forget.
On Sunday 10th May, with lunch and dinner options across the precinct, this is your one-stop spot for Mother’s Day plans. For information on all the events click here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
Burleigh Leagues Club is serving up a Mother’s Day Breakfast Buffet that’s all about starting the day on a delicious note. Expect a generous spread of hot and cold favourites, freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit and all the hearty classics to keep everyone happy.
There’s a complimentary glass of champagne for Mum on arrival, because bubbles with brekkie just feels right, plus the chance to win a $300 hamper while you’re there.
With a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and plenty to go around, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser. Happening Sunday 10 May from 8:30am to 10:30am, priced at $45.50 for adults, $15 for kids and free for under fives. Book here.
Where: Burleigh Leagues Club, 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
The Strand Coolangatta is bringing all the feel-good vibes this Mother’s Day with a lineup designed to help Mum truly unwind. From Wednesday, May 6, swing by with the family to snap a pic at the dreamy floral photo wall. No bookings needed, just smiles all round. On Saturday, May 9 from 9am to 3pm, Level One transforms into Mum’s Lounge, where she can soak up some well-deserved downtime with free five-minute massages from Cozy Time Massage, live music and a relaxed, flower-filled setting. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained too, from shell trinket workshops by The Craft Parlour and card-making stations to angel and tarot readings in the afternoon. Don’t miss the charity flower wall, where a gold coin donation could score Mum a prize from The Strand’s retailers. Find out more here.
Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Belinda Symons
Com-mum-erate Mum with an epic #MUMFEST at the Strand at Coolangatta
Let’s be real, one measly day doesn’t really cut the Vegemite and cheese sammich when it comes to celebrating Mum and everything she does for us. After all, being a Mum is equivalent to 2.5 full time jobs – or so the studies say (some weeks we’re sure it’s closer to 3!). That’s why the legends over at Cooly’s fave retail destination The Strand at Coolangatta have dreamt up #MumFest – a whole entire month to celebrate Mum. Honestly, it’s about time we say! And when it comes to nailing a mum-orable Mother’s Day, what could be easier than a literal one stop shop.
First up in the mum-umental line up of #MUMFEST(ivities), is the dead-set easiest way to upgrade your Mum’s day spoils to epic status this year – the sweet deal that is The Strand’s spend to get tickets event. While you’re shopping up a storm to spoil Mum this month, your in-store purchases of $30 or more will also bag you a ticket to one of two premium Mother’s Day experiences that are guaranteed to knock her socks – or slippers – off (excludes Woolies). It’s a #winwin, right?!
Now just what exactly does the hottest little ticket in 4225 get the holder, you ask? Choose from an exclusive movie screening at the brand new Cinebar, or unleash your inner Picasso at the exclusive Sip & Paint event where you can sip on delicious drinks and nibble on scrumptious bites all while creating a keepsake masterpiece. But be quick to secure your spot, because as you can imagine with an offer this fab, spots will be more coveted than a beachside carpark on a Saturday morning.
Once you’ve got Mum’s gift sorted – head on over to the free card making station while you’re there. Or if you’re the Mum perhaps you could just gently nudge the kids in it’s direction, because you’ll get yourself a moments peace and quiet while they create a heartfelt keepsake just for you. The card making station is just one of five totally free activities to pick from during #MumFest – The Strand has really delivered when they proclaimed it to be the Month of Mum!
There’s also the chance to frolic at one of the fabulous flower crown workshops by Bloom Blessings – obviously to make the Mum’s those crowns they so rightfully deserve #yasqueen (bookings required though! #yousnoozeyouloose).
For the active Mama’s, perhaps the challenge of the free pilates class will be just the ticket, because who doesn’t love starting the day feeling strong? (bookings also required). There’s also pamper station which is bound to be a hit for any Mum — complete with a hand massage, a lick of fresh polish in her fave colour and a special mocktail on the house. And last, but not def-gin-ately least – if you’re heading out for #girlsday with a side of retail therapy, be sure to treat Mum to a little shopping intermission at the Gin tasting pop up – a gin-termission! #cheerstoyouMum
And the part-ay doesn’t stop there, because all month long The Strand at Coolangatta is channeling their inner Oprah and giving away prizes galore, hop on over and give their socials a good old fashioned stalk coz #yougottabeinittowinit. Mum’s the word on what’s up for grabs, but with everything else that’s on offer this month you know it’s bound to be something pretty Mum-azing.
MUMFEST is sponsored by Studio Pilates Coolangatta, Lincraft, Endota Spa, Cooly Liquor, Cinebar and Little Cooly.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta, Coolangatta
When: All month long, check their socials or website for deets.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STRAND AT COOLANGATTA
Words by Kellie Leader
The Star Gold Coast is our chosen Juan for the ultimate Mexican fiesta!
To us, May = Mexican. Whilst we can always cook up an excuse to eat nachos and sink margis, we don’t need to next month because it’s Cinco de Mayo time hombres! No, this isn’t some spicy Mexican mayonnaise, but a humdinga Mexi partayyyyy #areeba. Falling on the 5th of May, Cinco de Mayo is an annual fiesta to commemorate Mexico’s independence from foreign rulers. So what’s better than a one day celebration….a one month celebration that’s what, lasting from the 1st till the 30th (and yes, we had to recite “30 days hath September…” in our heads).
Always on the same page as us, The Star Gold Coast are putting on a month of fun themed around our fave piñata popping peeps. So just what tomfoolery do our Mexi-loving mates at the GC’s entertainment hub have in store, and we thought you’d never ask.
Firstly, the entire joint is morphing into one big Pueblo and to save you a Google search, this means Village. Summonsing us to indulge in the traditions of Meh-hi-co, guys, we oblige #RubberArmActivated. Tell us more you say and again, we didn’t actually need an invitation.
If you fancy yourself as a bit of a bartender and don’t we all, sign up for a two-hour cocktail making masterclass so you can woo your amigos and amigas at your next dinner party. Salud! Hosted by Queensland Brand Ambassador Carmen Hartwich from Brown-Forman, owners of Herradura Tequila, if anyone knows their way around a tequila-based cocktail, it’s this lady!
Fittingly staged at The Star’s mezcal speakeasy, Veladora on Friday 5th May from 6.30pm until 8pm, it’ll be a night you’ll taco about for many years to come. Enjoy an evening of tequila, including two ‘DIY’ classic tequila-based cocktails, the Margarita and Paloma, Mexican-inspired snacks like a selection of empanadas, guacamole and corn chips, and all-round good times. Viva la Fiesta baby! This is a very limited and exclusive event so if you’re keen as (Dagoma) mustard, drop everything and book. Tickets are $79 per person, excluding Eventbrite booking fees.
And let’s not forget a live Mariachi band will roam the Grand Foyer from 7.30pm on the 6th May. Nothing says it’s time to fiesta like a group of roving sombrero-clad musicians!
Meanwhile, for the entire month of May, everyone’s favourite Japanese eats destination Kiyomi is whipping up a mean margarita and if you think you love a rita, a Japanese inspired rita is life. Or, if you’re a sucker for a frozen margarita, Atrium Bar has you covered and these things are srsly worth the brain freeze.
If a Millionaires Margherita at Cherry Bar tickles your fancy, same, and if our bank account doesn’t reflect millionaire status, at least our beverage can. And finally, if you’re a sucker for a Coconut Chilli Margarita which is us in drink form (sweet, spicy, and often associated with lots of woo-girl behaviour) then grab those bad boys at Garden Kitchen & Bar, along with a couple of supersized waters to mitigate the effects of said ritas #ResponsibleDrinking and #HeadachePrevention101. The Garden Kitchen & Bar also features plenty of other tequila cocktail concoctions and of course it does, coz this place never fails to deliver in the variety department.
Remember, you only live ‘Juance’, so get down to The Star in May for all the Cinco De Mayo revelry! For tickets and more information, go here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Various activations throughout May
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter Atrium Bar, Cherry Bar and the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
