TINA - The Ultimate Tribute rocks into The Star.
TINA - The Ultimate Tribute rocks into The Star.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to dust off your dancing shoes- this is it! Cue, ‘Simply The Best’. That’s right, the sell-out Tina Turner tribute performance is returning to the Gold Coast after popular demand, and we couldn’t be more excited. Get ready for a night of shimmy shaken, soul and electric energy!
Here to give 2025 the best possible send-off, ‘TINA- The Ultimate Tribute to the Queen of Rock’ n’ Roll’ returns to The Star on Broadbeach for just two nights only on December 30 and 31. Last year, their August show was so damn good that the Gold Coast crowd demanded an encore (what can we say, we know a good thing when we see one), and when better to return than NYE!
Fronted by electrifying South African TV and theatre powerhouse Caroline Borole, this 10-piece international ensemble is flying into Queensland direct from a huge tour across New Zealand. With musicians, dancers and backing vocalists bringing full-throttle energy to the stage, this show doesn’t just pay tribute- it serves Tina Turner so hard you’ll swear you’ve time-travelled to 1984. But don’t just take our word for it.
The Star Gold Coast is known for hosting some of the Gold Coast’s biggest nights, and this New Year’s Eve performance could be one of the best yet. Whether you’re a diehard Tina fan or couldn’t tell your ‘Proud Mary’ from your ‘Nutbush’, one thing’s universal- a night dedicated to the dance floor is always a night well spent. Not to mention, ringing in a new year with roaring vocals and iconic bangers from opener to finale.
Let’s talk hits because the setlist is stacked thicker than Tina’s iconic fringe. Expect all the essentials: ‘(Simply) The Best’, ‘Nutbush’, ‘Proud Mary’, ‘River Deep Mountain High’, ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It’, and ‘We Don’t Need Another Hero’, plus more soulful rock classics guaranteed to have every generation up on their feet. It’ll be a nostalgia overload in the best way possible- musical catharsis, if you will.
And just quietly- the critics have been losing their collective minds. Backstage Christchurch raved that “the trademark legs, galactic belting and electric energy were all delivered,” while North Coast Courier summed it up in one word: “Riveting.” You don’t get feedback like that unless you’re serving a show that slaps harder than a drum solo in ‘Proud Mary’.
Gold Coasters, if that’s not a challenge, we don’t know what is. Tickets for both performances are available now through Ticketek. So grab your seats, grab your friends and maybe stretch your hamstrings- because this New Year’s Eve, The Star Theatre is transforming into the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll celebration. Big vocals. Big hair. Big energy. Tina would be proud.
When: Tuesday 30th and Wednesday 31st Dec 2025
Where: The Star Gold Coast
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY SHOWTIME
Close out 2025 with a BANG this NYE!
New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and let us tell you, the Gold Coast is not here to play. In other words, we’re in for a NYE to remember (hopefully…). We’ve survived yet another 365 days- we deserve to celebrate! From sips with sky-high views to lux dinners and burning dance floors, GC is serving celebration on every level this year.
However you want to send off 2025, we’ve rounded up the very best ways to shimmy your way into 2026. Let’s get into it…
Prepare for an evening of curiosity, and where cocktails whisper “drink me”. Why? QT’s Stingray Lounge is serving Wonderland with a Mad Hatter’s NYE Party! Think roaming costumed performers, tea party–themed canapés, a huge 5.5-hour drinks package, a resident DJ, and immersive, chaotic-fabulous photo moments at every turn. Doors open at 7pm, the drinks flow until 12:30am, and the party continues through to 2am. Book here.
Curiosity encouraged. Madness required (yes, madness is the dress code).
Where: Stingray Lounge, QT Gold Coast, Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Price: Final Release $189pp + bf or $90pp + bf for entry and canapes only
Take your NYE celebrations sky-high at SkyPoint, 230 metres above the Gold Coast. From the moment you step into Level 77, the ‘Fiesta Pass’ sets the tone with four hours of Mexican-inspired eats from a live taco station, a five-hour premium beverage package, a cocktail on arrival and access to the Altos Cocktail Bar for tequila-fuelled fun.
Want to go next-level? The ‘Guacamole Grande Booth’ gives your group a private booth, table service, a Mexican feast delivered to your table, a bottle of Moët & Chandon on arrival, cocktails for each guest, and optional spirit upgrades- all with unrivalled views of the city and fireworks. Sip, snack, sway, and celebrate 2026 in style with unbeatable vibes from the sky. Book here.
Where: SkyPoint Observation Deck, Level 77, Q1, Surfers Paradise
Prices: Fiesta Pass $229pp, Guacamole Grande Booth from $375pp
Set sail into 2026 in all-white everything aboard the YOT Club for their iconic NYE White Party. From 8pm to 12:30am, you’ll cruise the Gold Coast waterways with premium roaming canapés, free-flowing drinks and live entertainment, setting the pace for the night. Depending on your vibe (and your budget), you can go for General Admission on either the Upper Deck or Ocean Deck, both offering a four-hour cruise, firework views and a generous drink and canape package. If you’re ready to level up, the VIP Booth options take things up a notch with reserved seating, Moët on ice, Grey Goose, grazing platters and bottle service for your whole crew. Whichever way you board, you’re landing the best floating fireworks vantage point on the Coast. Book here.
Where: YOT Club, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Price: From $310.45pp
If you’re chasing electric energy, iconic Turner belters and the kind of dance floor action that’ll have your feet filing for workers’ comp, Tina: The Ultimate Tribute is your NYE spiritual home. Hitting The Star on 30th and 31st December, this glitter-soaked tribute serves up her biggest hits from the ’60s to the ’90s, complete with powerhouse vocals, big-band vibes and costumes shinier than your NYE resolutions. Roll into Broadbeach (preferably in something Tina-worthy) and prepare to be dancing from the first key all the way to midnight. Book here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Price: From $59.90pp
If you’re after an elegant, resort-style NYE, Sanctuary Cove is serving a triple treat of celebrations. Start your night with a sumptuous Seafood Buffet Dinner at Cove Café, or take your evening a step further with a six-course Degustation Dinner at The Fireplace- a wood-fired, grown-ups-only affair that screams sophistication.
Then from 6pm, Lagoon Beach transforms into a balmy coastal celebration complete with a DJ, a spectacular 9pm jetpack show, and of course, midnight fireworks over the water. A dreamy way to welcome the new year. Book here.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Prices: Seafood Buffet Dinner $229pp, Fireplace Degustation Dinner $309pp
For those who love their celebrations with a little artistic flair, The Exhibitionist Bar is bringing its signature rooftop glamour to NYE. Enjoy a night of delicious canapés (think lobster skewers, chilli corn ribs, halloumi bites and caviar bumps on arrival), a 4-hour premium beverage package, and a DJ to help you dance the year away on the viewing deck.
If you’re feeling EXTRA, book a VIP Booth in their luxury lounge on level 5. Includes all the above, plus your own cheese and charcuterie grazing table and champagne upgrade. Sip, snack, and soak up the city lights before the midnight fireworks burst across the skyline- for you to enjoy from one of the Coast’s chicest vantage points. Book here.
Where: The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Prices: Cocktail Event: $210pp, VIP Booth: $2,100 (6 people max)
The Island is going big (as always), with three massive ways to party your way into 2026. First up, there’s ‘Laneway Lights’, giving you access to three bars- The Glasshouse, The Pool Deck & Lounge and Goldie’s with resident DJs. Prefer to celebrate under the stars at the Gold Coast’s favourite open-air rooftop bar? Say less, ‘The Island Rooftop’ ticket gives you live entertainment all night long plus 4.5-hour food and drinks package featuring premium drinks and gourmet canapés.
Finally, the ‘Island Penthouse’ ticket is as boujee as it sounds, giving you access across the entire Penthouse on level 12 with stunning views over Surfers Paradise and live entertainment by Mitchell in the Middle. Expect a 4.5 hour VIP experience, including premium gourmet canapés and super-premium drinks including espresso martinis, margaritas and Mumm Prestige (just to name a few). Book here.
Where: The Island Gold Coast, 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Prices: The Island Rooftop $189pp + bf, The Island Penthouse $229 + bf, Laneway Lights Party first release tickets from $30pp + bf, Access all areas $299pp + bf.
If your dream NYE involves mood lighting, next-level flavours and a countdown that feels like a scene from a very chic, very delicious movie, YORU is calling your name. On 31st December, this lantern-lit Nobby Beach favourite is serving an immersive Japanese Korean dining experience with a curated set menu featuring the likes of kingfish carpaccio, charcoal grilled wagyu, mixed sashimi, aburi tacos and matcha ice cream. Guests can choose from three shared menus including Hikari, Yūgen or Kurayami, plus optional wine pairings if you’re feeling a little extra (it is New Year’s Eve after all). With low lights, warm music and that signature YORU vibe, it is the perfect pick for couples, small groups or anyone craving a stylish send off to 2025. Bookings are essential and seats are limited, so secure your spot before it’s gone. Book here.
Where: Shop 1B 2249 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Price: NYE Set Menu $95pp, optional wine pairing $49pp
Ring in 2026 without ringing out your bank account thanks to a trio of free, family-friendly NYE celebrations across Varsity, Miami and Robina. Varsity Lakes kicks things off with New Year’s Eve by the Lake, a chilled waterfront soirée from 5.30pm on 31 December featuring live music, food trucks, kids’ entertainment and an 8.30pm fireworks finale over Lake Orr. Down by the beach, Miami Twilight NYE at Thorn Park brings DJ beats, bubble fun, train rides and coastal fireworks from 4pm to 8pm. And over at Robina Town Centre, The Promenade transforms into a Glitter & Glow party zone with carnival rides, face painting, live tunes and plenty of eats, all wrapping up with an 8pm fireworks display. Three suburbs, three parties, zero excuses to stay home.
If a classic beachside fireworks moment is more your style, the City of Gold Coast has you sorted with family-friendly 8pm shows followed by the big midnight spectacle. Snag your seat at Broadbeach, Coomera, Surfers Paradise or Coolangatta. Pack a picnic, gather your favourite people and watch the sky light up along the coastline. Whether you’re chasing sparkling skies or gathering for a community celebration, it’s a firework-filled farewell across the Gold Coast that you won’t want to miss!
Where: Fireworks: Kurrawa Beachfront, Broadbeach – 8pm & midnight, Kirra, Coolangatta – 9pm & midnight, Surfers Paradise Beach – 8pm & midnight. Community Celebration: Coomera Sports Park, Coomera – 6pm to 8pm.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
The freshest spots are here, and the Gold Coast is just warming up.
The year’s winding down, but if November openings are anything to go by, the Gold Coast is still full throttle.
From sampling sizzling meats and frosty fruity treats to soaking up the vibes in beer gardens and on mountain picnics, we’ve rounded up all the November openings so you can start planning your ultimate end-of-year adventures.
Peddly Picnics is rolling into Tamborine Mountain with the smoothest way to explore the Scenic Rim… on two wheels! Grab an e-bike, load up your picnic basket and cruise between wineries, distilleries, cafes and lookout spots at your own breezy pace. With lush rainforest trails, secret foodie stops and even room for a pup in the basket, it’s the ultimate sip-and-snack summer adventure. Trust us, this is one wheelie good day out.
Where: 43 Main St, Tamborine Mountain
The Chilly Bin is officially Tugun’s coolest new hangout, bringing a taste of true Kiwi summer with its real fruit ice cream served straight from a converted horse float. Blending frozen fruit with silky handmade ice cream on the spot, it’s part soft serve, part smoothie, and all delicious. Think mango, mixed berry, rotating specials and even dairy-free bases made with coconut milk and olive oil. With sunny seating, games and major chill vibes, this spot has summer written all over it.
Where:478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
Costa Taco has taken over Burleigh in the best possible way, opening its biggest and boldest venue yet. What started as a tiny Palm Beach hole-in-the-wall with epic queues has grown into a full-blown coastal fiesta, and this new flagship is the ultimate taco playground. With 110 seats, colourful vibes, icy margaritas and all your Costa favourites, Burleigh is officially the new home of tortilla-fuelled good times.
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
Southport is heating up, and it’s all thanks to Ember by Fire Baby, the fiery new sibling turning up the sizzle on Welch Street. Upstairs, Fire Baby brings cheesy comfort by the slice, but downstairs Ember is where things get sear-iously smoky. Think flame-kissed steaks, charcoal-grilled seafood and bold dishes crafted by a powerhouse culinary team. With moody vibes, inventive flavours and that irresistible open-fire aroma, Ember is serving up the kind of heat you’ll happily lean into.
Where: 10 Welch Street, Southport
Pappa Flock has swooped into Surfers Paradise, landing on Cavill Ave with a whole lot of cluckin’ good energy. The bright, beach-inspired venue features bold orange decor and a mural by local artist Kiel Tillman, instantly claiming landmark status. Known for a loyal fan base, Pappa Flock hand-breads every tender and squeezes thousands of lemons daily for unbeatable lemonade. From the Mighty Box to Loaded Fries and signature Crispy Chicken sandwiches, this new hotspot is set to be Surfers’ go-to for a flockin’ good feed.
Where: Paradise Centre, Shop 24, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hotel Jardin has officially brought a new era of chic to Chevron Renaissance, unveiling a multi-level playground of bars, dining and late-night glamour. Its first stage features the moody Lobby Bar, a sultry Piano Bar and SABA Kitchen, where Executive Chef Minh Le dishes up spice-driven pan-Asian flavours. With velvet booths, live music, refined cocktails and a rooftop arriving in 2026, Hotel Jardin is set to become Surfers Paradise’s newest go-to for elevated evenings, golden-hour moments and seriously stylish fun.
Where: Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Cheek Café has arrived in Southport with big flavours, bold personality and peachy-good vibes. This sunny corner spot blends playful design with seriously good coffee, wholesome ingredients and a menu inspired by Greek, Italian and Aussie roots. Owner Natalie Yiannakopoulos has poured her heart into every detail, backed by Head Chef Anjelika Arnaiz, whose global experience brings a refined twist to brunch favourites. From the Cheeked Up Benny to Peachy Pannacotta, this cafe is guaranteed to brighten your day.
Where: 412/1 Como Crescent, Southport
Crack a cold one because Padre Brewing Co has officially landed in Miami. Built on two decades of friendship, the crew behind Padre believes good beer is best shared, and their new 160-seat brewery is the best place for it. Expect 14 beers brewed onsite, a menu stacked with elevated pub classics and a space designed for good times. Whether you’re sinking a lager, sampling an IPA or grabbing a takeaway, Padre is your new best mate.
Where: 9 Ozone Parade, Miami
Words by Lisette Drew
Hurricane’s is back with a new look and menu.
Listen, up! Drum roll please…Hurricane’s Grill & Bar Surfers Paradise has made its long-awaited return! Gold Coasters, rejoice! Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred may have done a number on the iconic beachfront venue, but we’re here to let you know they’re back, brighter, breezier, and more beautiful than ever! Consider this your official forecast: clear skies, good vibes, and seriously elevated eats.
If you haven’t heard of Hurricane in Surfers, are you even a local? Look, probably not, but that’s okay. A bit of history, it’s been a GC fav since 2013- a dependable spot for a suburb steak, ocean views and a good time. But now? Well, thanks to a facelift arguably more impressive than Kris Jenner’s and a full menu revamp, she’s fresh baby! Think light, relaxed, coastal elegance, courtesy of award-winning interior designers Luchetti Krelle.
The once darker, moodier interior has been transformed into a total seaside daydream. Expect locally-crafted timber details, hand-made tiles, curve finishes, and a brand-new private dining room perfect for intimate celebrations of up to 40 guests. One of the biggest changes? The original wraparound ocean-facing windows can now be fully opened, giving the whole 300-seat restaurant an alfresco vibe that blends seamlessly with the salty sea breeze. You’ll settle in, sip something pretty, and stay far longer than intended.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Hurricane’s moment without the food, and the refreshed menu absolutely delivers. The raw bar alone is enough to lure in every seafood lover within a 20km radius, featuring fresh, icy local catches that are impossible to resist. From there, things take a Mediterranean turn with starters like fried focaccia with honey butter and burrata (because, always) that deserve their own fan club.
Steak lovers, brace yourselves. Hurricane’s has introduced a dry-aged program and premium Australian cuts, including a jaw-dropping 1.7kg tomahawk and 1kg T-bone with nothing below MS8. It’s indulgent, impressive, and yes, exactly the kind of thing that will make you revisit that gym membership. And don’t worry, the OG icons are still here too: flame-grilled ribs, stacked burgers, and those fresh, colourful salads that balance out all the decadence. It’s all the things you know and love, just turned up a notch.
The drink selection has also had its own little glow-up. Think dessert cocktails, boozy slushies, tropical-style cocktails, a dozen mocktails, tap beers, local wines, spirits– the hardest part is choosing. Although a boozy slushie overlooking the ocean feels like a pretty safe bet.
Despite the new look and lifted menu, one thing hasn’t changed: the warm, welcoming service that locals adore. The team is led by long-standing Restaurant Manager Kimberley Dutheil, who’s been holding down the fort since 2022, and Event & Venue Operations Manager James Broomhall (since 2020). Their passion and consistency mean Hurricane’s still feels like Hurricane’s, just with a very sophisticated makeover.
Part of restaurateur Tony Teixeira’s Hurricane’s collection, the Surfers Paradise venue sits alongside beloved spots in Bondi Beach, Cronulla Beach, Narellan and Top Ryde. And with this slick new upgrade, it might just hold the crown. Bias? Never.
Regardless of whether you’re an OG Hurricanes lover or a first-timer, this is your cue. The all-new Hurricanes is the perfect location for family dinner, long long with friends, date night or your next big celebration!
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Level 2/4-14 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: 12pm – 3pm / 5pm – 9pm, Monday-Thursday. 12pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday. 12-9pm, Sunday.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
