Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic takes a holistic doctor-led approach.
Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic takes a holistic doctor-led approach.
Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic has been quietly shaping the Gold Coast’s aesthetic scene for more than 15 years, and it’s easy to see (quite literally) why people keep coming back.
The clinic has built its cult following on a simple idea: treatments should be safe, thoughtful and genuinely suited to the person sitting in front of them. Under the guidance of the legendary Dr Paul Fisser, the clinic has grown into a trusted space where patients feel heard, supported and confident that their skin is in highly experienced hands, with a strong focus on ethical, evidence-based care.
Dr Fisser is an undisputed force of nature in his own right, but when you add Registered Nurse Samantha Baker into the mix, the clinic’s reputation for thoughtful, personalised care makes perfect sense. Samantha, who brings more than 20 years of local experience, has a calm, grounded presence that immediately puts people at ease.
Together, they combine clinical precision with a genuine understanding of skin health, approaching every treatment with the goal of enhancing, not altering, natural features.
As a doctor-led clinic, Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic places a strong emphasis on safety and integrity. A doctor is present on site for every appointment ensuring patients receive the highest standard of care, with every treatment thoughtfully planned and tailored to suit individual goals.
One of the things patients appreciate most is the clinic’s commitment to a more considered, personalised approach. It’s a slower way of doing things, but the proof is in the pudding or in this case, the perfectly balanced results.
What really sets Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic apart is its focus on treating the skin beyond what is visible. The team embraces a ‘beauty from within’ philosophy, recognising that internal health, lifestyle and hormonal changes all play a role in overall skin health.
The ageing process, particularly through menopause, can have a significant impact on the skin’s hydration, elasticity and overall appearance. It’s a stage that can be challenging for many women, both physically and emotionally, and one the team supports with education, understanding and tailored treatment plans designed to deliver realistic, natural outcomes.
By working in conjunction with the doctors at Mermaid Central Medical Clinic, they’re able to take a more comprehensive approach to care, supporting both internal health and external results.
This philosophy extends to the clinic’s use of Synergie Skin, a range designed to support the skin both topically and from within. Alongside advanced skincare, internal supplements including Pro Collagen, Derma Gut and Nrgize NAD Supercharge are used to support skin structure, gut health and overall vitality, helping to enhance and maintain results over time.
At Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic, skin health isn’t viewed as a series of isolated treatments performed every few months. Instead, it’s an ongoing journey, a partnership between practitioner and patient, focused on consistency, education and long-term results.
Mermaid Central Cosmetic Clinic keeps raising the bar in all the right ways. It’s a clinic where expertise is not just top-tier but genuinely down-to-earth, and every visit is a step toward healthier and happier skin.
Where: 2431 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Monday – Friday – online bookings available – outside hours by request
Website: mermaidcentralmedicalclinic.com.au
Instagram: @mermaidcentralcosmetics
Words by Bianca Trathen and Belinda Symons
STORY SPONSORED BY MERMAID CENTRAL COSMETIC CLINIC
Stop, recalibrate and LISTEN - the GC has a new EAR‑resistible clinic.
If you’ve ever found yourself saying “Huh?” one too many times, blaming your headphones for sounding “a bit muffled,” or wondering whether your ears are quietly plotting against you, Robina has just delivered the glow‑up your hearing has been begging for. Coastal Ear Clean, the Gold Coast’s newest dedicated ear‑care clinic, opened its doors in December 2025 and is already making waves – or should we say, sound waves. Locally owned by registered nurses and all‑round legends Tessa Patterson and Leah Norman, this boutique clinic is on a mission to make ear care simple, accessible and, dare we say it, kind of fascinating.
The idea for Coastal Ear Clean came from years of watching patients struggle with blocked ears, discomfort, ringing, pressure, or that dreaded “I swear I’m not ignoring you, I just can’t hear you” feeling. Tessa and Leah kept seeing the same problem: people didn’t know where to go. Do you book a GP? An ENT? A random chemist? A YouTube tutorial you absolutely should not be attempting? The options were confusing, inconsistent and often involved long waits or water‑based syringing which let’s face it – can be downright risky. So, this determined duo decided to make things simple, safe, and stress free by opening a welcoming space where ear care is the whole point, not an afterthought. And, you don’t even need a referral!
Coastal Ear Clean feels more like a serene coastal studio than a clinic. Inspired by the Gold Coast’s breezy, beach‑loving lifestyle, the space is light, calming and intentionally non‑clinical. No harsh lighting, no intimidating equipment on display, no “hospital vibes.” Just a soothing reception area, a private treatment room and the kind of atmosphere that makes even the most squeamish ear‑cleaning newbie feel instantly at ease. It’s the ear‑equivalent of a spa day – minus the cucumber water, plus a microscope.
Speaking of microscopes, let’s talk tech. Coastal Ear Clean uses microsuction, the gold‑standard method for removing earwax and debris. Instead of flushing your ear with water (shudder), microsuction uses a tiny suction device under direct vision through a surgical microscope. Translation: they can see everything and remove wax with precision, speed and minimal fuss. It’s the same technique used in ENT clinics, but now available locally without needing a referral or a six‑week wait.
And because Tessa and Leah are both experienced registered nurses – with backgrounds spanning paediatrics, neonates, emergency, general practice, palliative care and more – you’re in seriously capable hands. They’ve seen every type of ear, every type of wax, every type of “I think something’s in there but I’m scared to find out.” Nothing shocks them. Nothing grosses them out. They’re unflappable, friendly and genuinely passionate about helping people hear clearly again.
One of the coolest features of the clinic is the TV screen connected to the microscope. If you’re curious (or just love a bit of weird science), you can watch the entire process live. Yes, you can literally see your ear canal on the big screen like it’s starring in its own nature documentary. Some people find it mesmerising. Some find it educational. Some prefer to look away and pretend their ear isn’t making its television debut. All options are valid.
Microsuction can help with everything from blocked ears and wax build‑up to tinnitus, itchy ears, surfer’s ear, ear infections, hearing aid maintenance and even vertigo. It’s suitable for kids, adults and anyone who’s tired of saying “Sorry, what was that?” The whole appointment usually takes around 15–20 minutes, though that depends on how much wax your ears have been hoarding. And yes, you can ask for a break if you need one. Coastal Ear Clean is all about comfort, communication and making sure you feel informed every step of the way.
Tessa and Leah chose Robina because they wanted to be part of a community that values convenience, local healthcare and friendly neighbourhood vibes. With easy parking and a central location, popping in for an appointment is as simple as grabbing a coffee. They’ve created a space that feels warm, approachable and genuinely helpful.
In a world where we obsess over skincare, haircare, nail care and self‑care, ear care has been the forgotten sibling. Coastal Ear Clean is here to change that. They’re normalising routine ear maintenance, educating the community and helping people tune back into life with clarity, comfort and confidence.
So if your ears have been feeling a little full, fuzzy or fed up, consider this your sign to listen up. Coastal Ear Clean is ready to help you hear the world again – one gentle microsuction at a time.
Where: 100 Cheltenham Drive, Robina
When: 9am – 5:30pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 9am – 6:30pm Thursday, & 9am – 1pm Saturday. Closed Sunday.
Instagram: @coastal_earclean
Website: coastalearclean.com.au
Words by Bianca Trathen
See more from Coastal Ear Clean in our reel here.
STORY SPONSORED BY COASTAL EAR CLEAN
And why you will too!
Some might call it the heart of the Gold Coast. Mermaid locals will call it the only suburb worth visiting. While we aren’t ones to pick favourite children – I mean, suburbs – Mermaid Beach is definitely up there with the best of the best.
And when you’ve got these spots right on your doorstep, we can kind of understand why. So come with us and explore what locals love so much about our beachside beauty, Mermaid Beach.
She’s one of the Gold Coast’s finest, boasting 4.8 stars on Google and a 2025 AGFG Award to add to an already impressive list of accolades. The food is every bit as refined as the name suggests, crafted by genius minds. A reservation here means settling in for modern Australian dining at its best, served in an intimate, quietly sophisticated room. Fine food lovers, rejoice!
Where: 2444 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Fool us once, shame on you. Fool us twice, shame on us. But take that up to Six-Tricks? Now you’re talking. The Six-Tricks Distilling Co. is an appreciated presence in the GC and Mermaid distillery scene- a carnival of cocktails. It’s our favourite local haunt to settle in and sip on some spirits with their menu of seriously spirited flavour combos. Sip back, relax and soak up the great booze and good vibes all day long.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Waters
The North Room is one of our favourite spots, not just in Mermaid, but the whole Coast, for that signature, relaxed, fine-dining feel. An intimate restaurant serving up some absolutely stunning contemporary dishes that you’ll want to wrap your mouth around ASAP. Bookings are essential; open for dinner on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. Huge fans of this place.
Where: 1/2527 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Filling the gelato-shaped hole in our hearts (and stomachs), La Macelleria has been a very welcome addition to Mermaid Beach. Don’t just listen to us waffle on about it, we’ve given you the scoop now taste it for yourself. Made onsite at La Macelleria, you can watch your gelato churn, baby, churn before they dish up your flavour of choice – which is obviously pistachio, right? It’s legen-dairy.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Welcome to the Gold Coast’s official brunch destination. There’s a lot to be said about infusing a space with tropical, feel-good vibes, and Little Mermaid has done precisely that. Decked out with plenty of greenery, a laidback beachy feel, and tons of space for all your friends, this is the place to be. Open for breakfast and lunch the vibe is always pumping, so it’s our go-to when you’re looking for a guaranteed good time. We can’t go past the classic beachy fit-out. You know it’s good when the venue lasts the test of time like these guys have.
Where: 2557 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Have we every mentioned how Gold Coast surf clubs have the best views in town? Mermaid’s is no exception, with uninterrupted ocean views, delicious meals that will fill you right up, and of course, a sweet selection of drinks to sip on. It’s an amazing spot to watch the sun go down with the crew and always provides a quality atmosphere with a buzz of people – bonus if you manage to go home with a cheeky meat tray in tow.
Where: 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
Never before has a plant nursery gained such a cult-like following as this gorgeous warehouse. It’s the Gold Coast’s go-to for a hint of (green) retail therapy, drawing plant lovers and photographers in droves due to its ‘gramworthy aesthetics and bespoke greenery. Fusing in a mix of uber chic homewares, pots for said plants and more to make the ultimate gift for you or a loved one, there’s something for all – no green thumb required. The stunning space also hosts workshops and yoga classes amongst the leafy greens, but if that’s not your jam, just become a plant parent!
Where: 42-44 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach
Did someone say R&R? The team at Soak Bathhouse has it down to an art, bringing the ultimate oasis of recovery and tranquillity right in the heart of bustling Mermaid Beach. With magnesium pools, massage rooms, traditional and infrared saunas, a steam room spa and a cold plunge pool if you’re brave. Pop in for an hour or stay for the day and really treat yourself – you’ve earned it.
Where: 2532 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Serving up premium steak and boutique wine (among other delicious things), The Glenelg Public House is an absolute must-visit in Mermaid Beach and just generally on the Gold Coast. If for some reason you’re not into steak (it’s okay, we won’t tell anyone), everything on the menu is top-notch and they have a selection of some of the best seafood and sides we’ve ever sampled. If you’re partial to a solid serving of cheese then you must try to raclette with pear, fig relish and hazelnuts. Keen to try something a little different? The roast bone marrow with onion jam, mustard and toast is next level. Just. Trust. Us.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Mexican eats at their absolute finest can be found at Bonita Bonita. One of the longest-standing taco joints on the Coast, it’s a favourite amongst the locals, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, should that be your thing. To answer your question, yes, they do have Taco Tuesdays, complete with $6 tacos and $20 jugs of sangria! Right next door is Bon Bon Bar, so head in there for a cheeky margi before sampling all of the epic eats on offer. Our marg of choice? Well, the Mezcal Margarita, of course.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Marked by yellow striped umbrellas, splashes of colour and plenty of smiling faces, Sunnyboy is the sibling of Broady’s Elk Espresso- a Gold Coast institution since 2011. From 7am daily, you can tuck into breaky, brunch and lunch classics that are seriously elevated. Like, too good to eat (but wayyy too good not to), Insta-worthy dishes that will blow your mind and taste buds. Then, for those weekends (or weekdays- no judgement here) that cause breaky with a side of bubbles, there’s Bottomless Boozy Brunches. Just take one look at their Insta, and you will be messaging the group chat to lock in a date.
Where: 168 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
First, we were blessed with Rafiki By The Sea- a long-standing neighbourhood favourite serving flavoursome food, stellar coffee and unmatchable vibes. Then came Rafiki By The Park, thanks to the screaming success of the seaside original. That’s right, Gold Coasters… we’ve been blessed with two Rafikis, and honestly, we deserve it.
Both venues serve slurp-worthy smoothies, icy matcha, cheeky (and famous) toasties, house-made yoghurt cups piled with seasonal fruit and crunchy granola, and their cult-status African Avo Toast. Add in strong coffee, super-friendly staff, and a rotating roaster of smiling doggos, and you’ve got two of Mermaid’s most beloved local hangouts.
Where: By The Sea, 172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach. By The Park, 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Bam Bam has long held elite bakery status in Mermaid Beach (and the rest of Australia), and once you’ve had one of their pastries, you get it. The place smells ridiculous, in a butter-meets-sugar way, and the pastry cabinet makes you lose all inhibition with zero regrets. There are loaded muffins, crispy cruffins, savoury and sweet croissants, melted-in-the-middle cookies, and so much more! They also cover scrambled eggs, sandwiches, acai bowls- even poke bowls and nasi goreng! They do it all, and they do so damn well! Needless to say, it’s a staple for locals, a weekend ritual for many, and a must-visit for anyone serious about baked goods.
Where: 2519 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
The Raspberry Room isn’t just a place to get a fine-line tattoo; it’s a speakeasy-meets-hotel-lobby-inspired haven. The waiting room channels New York lobby vibes, and the studio blends the founders’ favourite bars and hotels, all wrapped up in a colour palette straight outta Wes Anderson’s classic, ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’. It’s the perfect place to pop your tattoo cherry, or collect more!
Where: 2/2460 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Etsu is one of those hidden-in-plain-sight spots- seriously, you’d walk straight past if you didn’t know what you were looking for, but that’s half the fun! Inside, it’s moody, intimate and buzzing in that way only great Japanese venues seem to pull off. The food is consistently excellent, from the sashimi to the small plates to the more playful specials. The drinks list is stacked with good sake and Japanese whisky, and the staff know their stuff without being over-the-top about it. It’s a favourite for celebrations, date nights or any time you want dinner to feel like an occasion without being overly fancy. Don’t go past the aburi salmon maki roll with avocado, seared salmon, spicy mayo, teriyaki and red tobiko.
Where: 2440 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Ritual is the calm in the chaos – the place locals escape to when they need to breathe, stretch or just reset after a big week. The studio is warm and welcoming, with pilates that burn and yoga that soothes. There’s a real community feel here which is always a standout feature. Whether you’re into slow, grounding sessions or you want something a bit stronger, the timetable covers it. They also have locations in Palm Beach and Robina!
Where: 2431 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Top honours for your faves.
Look we’re all partial to a good hat but if you’re a chef, a hat is all that and a bag of chips. Each year, the Australian Good Food Guide awards hats to the crème de la crème in the restaurant world. And while some of our neighbouring cities may have once side‑eyed the Gold Coast’s dining scene, it’s official: the tables have turned, and the GC is strutting its stuff.
This year, a whopping 25 of our favourite local eateries snagged at least one hat, and we’re practically bursting with pride! The AGFG rates each restaurant out of 20, and although nobody’s hit that elusive perfect score just yet, there’s plenty of brilliance on display.
In a twist everyone saw coming, Broadbeach cleaned up with seven venues receiving hats. The newly revamped Mamasan charmed its way to a score of 13, while Social Eating House and Bar (13) matched it with its masterful blend of modern Australian favourites.
The Oracle Boulevard scene was further flaunted by BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar (12) and kōst (13), each offering their own distinct flavour explosions for diners.
Of course, several of The Star Gold Coast’s restaurants collected gongs. Japanese sensation Kiyomi scored a sophisticated 14, while the sleek Modern Australian fine‑dining gem Nineteen at the Star earned 13.
Rounding out Broady’s winners, long‑standing steak haven Moo Moo The Wine Bar and Grill received a solid 13, keeping carnivores grinning from ear to ear.
Travel south to Mermaid Beach and you’ll find boutique dining superstar The North Room boasting an impressive 15, a testament to its thoughtful, modern dishes executed with technical precision. Beloved Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar earned 14, and esteemed Japanese haunt Etsu Izakaya scored 13, continuing its legacy of refined flavours.
Slick Latin American newcomer Norté, with its vibrant, fiesta‑inspired energy and bold Mexican flavours, made its debut with a 12. Euro-inspired Juju (13) and The Oxley’s stalwart fave Lars(12), rounded out Nobby’s award recipients.
Robina’s Eddy + Wolff represented with a well-earned 12. It just goes to show that the ‘burbs can cook up a winner too, not just the Insta-set-favoured pockets.
Speaking of, Mudgeeraba’s intimate Japanese (and under-the-radar superstar) Anekawa, earned itself a 13, while Bundall’s Mediterranean‑meets‑local gem Bar Leo Food & Wine debuted with a solid 12.
Burleigh wasn’t left behind either. Rick Shores scored 13 for its delectable contemporary pan-Asian offerings. The Gold Coast highway strip represented with Vietnamese pin-up boy Jimmy Wah’s(13).
Daniel Ridgeway’s Palm Beach offering Madame V was shown some love with 13, while Kirra’s beachfront Billy Chow (12) made its debut, earning recognition for its playful pan‑Asian menu.
Let’s journey back to the central neck of the woods, starting with Surfers Paradise’s Modern Australian superstar Palette located at HOTA, Home of the Arts, topping the list with a stellar 16. This Modern Australian standout blends bold flavours with innovative techniques, earning its spot among Queensland’s finest.
The JW Marriott Gold Coast’s seafood superstar Citrique earned a 14, while the QT’s Japanese phenomenon Yamagen scored 13 and The Langham’s Cantonese gem T’ang Court scored 12.
Over in Main Beach, La Luna Dining scored 12 with its modern Australian waterfront charm.
Anyone who still says we’re lacking in the quality eats department here on the Goldie, now is the time to concede defeat because this list of local victories confirms what we already knew – our foodie scene has officially become a force to be reckoned with and there’s plenty more to come…
Words by Belinda Symons
