Seize the clay at Dirty Hands Art!
Seize the clay at Dirty Hands Art!
When we think of pottery, our thoughts wander to Demi Moore in Ghost and OMG, we still get chills even after watching that scene at least 725 times. If you’re anything like us, finding a creative release to expel the mundanity of the 9 to 5 is up there on our to do list and holy arty farty Batman, we have found The.Place… Dirty Hands Art Studio in Burleigh.
This is the perfect spot to unwind, have fun channeling your inner Kreative Kween and whip up a sh*t hot pottery piece to display proudly on your sideboard or kitchen countertop. You should see the beautiful bowls, plates, pots, vessels etc that us mere mortals can whip up under their expert guidance, and this legit makes us want to start a side biz hustling our Dirty Hands masterpieces.
After being part of a co-working space for 4 years then finding a new home in the cool capital of the GC, founder Steve Morley has built a studio conducive to getting one’s creative on and connecting with others. You can sign up for a four-week Wheel Pottery Class ($400), which is ideal for beginners (#us). This is where you put pedal to the metal on the wheel and transform raw clay into something magical.
Or, you can get your hands dirty, clay-covered to be specific. with their four-week Handbuilding Pottery Course ($399), which is a sip and sculpt (eeeeee – SIP!) workshop. This is where you can run wild and freestyle your way to a piece that is uniquely you. The sipping part helps this process, no doubt! Wink wink, nudge nudge.
There are also other ways to get your zen fix at Dirty Hands. There’s Yoga with Soof for $15 per class, or Calisthenics movement classes with Dan and not even kidding when we say this guy will have you doing handstands in trees and well, just about anywhere after he’s trained you up.
If Devine Feminine Sound Healing is more your vibe, you can connect to your feminine energy through guided meditation with light breath-work, the sounds of crystal bowls and the red goddess drum, and the medicine of Cacao ($30 per class). You’ll leave feeling empowered and immediately start building a Women Are Awesome playlist because You Are Woman!!!!!
Or if you just want to swing in and find a unique piece made by a pro then hey, that’s cool. They also sell ready-to-buy pieces which are just waiting to find real estate in your abode.
So, whether you’re flying solo or looking for something fun and fulfilling to do with the crew, Dirty Hands Art dishes out an authentic sense of community and a good feed for the soul.
Where: Shop 5/19 Park Ave, Burleigh Heads
When: Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm. Closed Sundays.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
There are very few things we love more than passionate creatives carving out a niche for themselves in the local community. Throw in the desire to share that passion with the rest of us and we’re practically jumping up and down with excitement.
Which is exactly what happened when we ventured down to Kingscliff to check out the new café slash creative space that is Stone Studio aka our new favourite place.
It’s the work of dynamic husband and wife duo Jennifer and Brad who are as into taking time out for creativity and the local community as two people could be. And we know you’re all about that too.
So let’s discuss. Stone Studio can be found on Marine Parade in Kingy, taking up a corner space and overlooking the ocean for some extra chill vibes. Inside, it’s a casual affair with polished concrete floors, a pink tiled coffee bench and stacks of shelves that are home to yet-to-be-fired pottery pieces and delightful homewares goodies (by local makers of course) that you can take home with you.
Think brands like Mayde Tea, Posie candles and Jennifer’s own brand Yucca Stone Ceramics – which you’ve no doubt already heard of.
Now, besides all of those things, there are six pottery wheels and a big old bench for hand building classes. Because yes, all classes and workshops happen right there in the space and it’s a concept we really wish we thought of honestly.
There are many classes throughout the week including during the day, in the evenings and on the weekend, so no matter what you’re up to at any given time, you can get involved. It also doesn’t matter if you’ve never thrown pottery before (a technical term involving using the pottery wheel, not actually hurling pretty things around), or if you’re an old hand, there are classes for all levels. The same goes for the hand building classes.
Jennifer takes the wheel classes and hers is a passion for making that is unrivalled. She fell in love with the art of throwing while living in San Diego for the primary reasons that it is both a grounding practice and one that places you squarely in the given moment, with no room to think about a single other thing than what you’re doing right then and there.
Sounds heavenly doesn’t it.
The pair are big fans of sharing their love of community as we mentioned and beyond that, allowing people to spend time in a space where creative or not, we can all make something with our hands that we can take home and be proud of. So good.
Of course, while you’re doing all the making, you may sip on coffee by local roaster Therefore, who we’re told is as passionate about coffee as any person can be and that absolutely comes through in the taste of the brews.
To eat, there are baked goodies and soon there’ll be gourmet sandwiches among other savoury surprises and stay tuned for booze too.
Right now classes are BYO, so you may take your fave wine with you and let that creativity flow. Also, there are longer courses if you’re keen to really learn the art of pottery throwing.
If you’re keen to switch off, get to know some legendary locals and make something sweet, you can do it all down Kingscliff way at Stone Studio. They’re also planning a local makers market called North County on November 29th too so make sure you don’t miss that.
Okay we’re out. Go there now.
LOCATION: 1/110 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
HOURS: TBC
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Oh Burleigh you little beauty, what’s not to love right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least) Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore but it’s more than that, Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty seabreeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
We say when in Burleigh do as the locals do, so here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else).
Fine Dining
Restaurant Labart
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit and your dining experience there is one you won’t long forget. The produce is sustainable and the wine list is filled with some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Rick Shores
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh beach, Rick Shores is loved (not only locally) for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life, make a booking RIGHT NOW and order them all. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails and you’re a bonafide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Mr Hizola’s
Yum, contemporary Cantonese food, we love you. Mr Hizola’s is dishing up the goods in the form of tasty share-style dishes and we are here for it. Particularly the sizzling steak dish that is all kinds of delicious and an array of epic cocktails to match.
Where: 1730 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Jimmy Wahs
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by Head Chef Jake’s trip through Vietnam and a desire to eat some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Same. It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, paired back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Casuals Eats
Burleigh Town Hotel
If you haven’t seen this new reno, then where have you been? One of the best glow ups on the GC recently (in our humble opinion), Burleigh Town Hotel has nailed the pub-style menu and good vibes. The perfect place to set up for the arvo with your besties and the kids, there’s loads of space for the little ones to roam and plenty to keep them entertained while you kick back with a beverage in hand. Say less.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Gelato Co
We’re softies for the sweet deliciousness that is gelato. Burleigh Gelato Co know how to deliver on flavours worth melting for, they’ve got all the classic Italian flavours you know and love along with their own signature specials. Guaranteed you’ll love them un-cone-ditionally.
Where: 9 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
Coffee Hangs
Seadog
The guys behind Seadog know coffee. Starting as a humble little hole in the wall – literally – Seadog has become the go-to for a quick bite and a brew. And don’t worry, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you – you really are seeing double because you’ll find the crew on the bustling James Street or down the other end at the old faithful Burleigh Bowlo, perfect spot for a piccolo and park hangs.
Where: 8/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads and 1, Bowls Club, Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
Tarte Bakery & Cafe
There’s good reason this gem is heaving at all hours, the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town, it’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Social Brew
Social by name, social by nature – Social Brew is one of Burleigh’s best coffee hangouts whether you’re looking to catch up with the crew or a spot to work for the day, there’s a reason these guys have stood the test of time. A staple spot to visit in Burleigh for their signature iced coffee, come for the caffeine and stay for the bites.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Baker
The baked goods that come out of this friendly little bakery are honestly something else. Owners Geoff and Lisa are passionate about baking and opened Burleigh Baker to provide us with the best tasting and most nutritious Artisan Sourdough and boy do they deliver. They use only the finest ingredients and the traditional process of fermentation. Do not buy bread anywhere else. You’re welcome.
Where: 13/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Something To Drink
Paloma Wine Bar
From the brains that brought us Labart is the one and only Paloma. This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the steak frites – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Rosella’s
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s very quickly became a firm local favourite when it opened last year and with both a drinks and food menu made up entirely of Australian produce, we are in love. There are cocktails made with Nutri Grain, some of the tastiest toasties around and all the very best Aussie beers. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Justin Lane Rooftop
Don your finest frock and rally up your girlfriends for a Sunday session and a spot of people watching on the roof at Justin Lane. With cocktails in hand and a balmy breeze blowing in through the windows, you need never go anywhere else again. After a few hours, pop downstairs for one of Justin’s famous pizzas and that’s your Sunday sorted.
Where: 1708 – 1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Lockwood Bar
A somewhat hidden little speakeasy in the heart of Burleigh Heads, Lockwood Bar specialise in all of the very best varieties of whiskey along with many a local tipple transformed into tasty cocktails. It’s a laidback, jazz bar kind of vibe, low lit, often with live music and once you’re inside, you likely won’t want to leave. We dig it.
Where: Justin Lane, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Brewing Co.
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. After opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced nine delicious drops with delightful names such as ‘My Wife’s Bitter’ and ‘FIGJAM’ – perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill or head into the brewery from Wednesday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it. There’s live tunes too, what a combination.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
Something To Do
Burleigh Hill
Well hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become a local legend? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos) “the hill” as it’s affectionately known is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revelers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around the hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy scenery or if you’re into hill and chill then order some takeaway and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Bowls Club
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls roll on from 12 to 5pm every Sunday and it’s a measly $5 per person including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Live music can be heard on Sunday arvos from 2 to 6pm. Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
David Fleay Wildlife Park
Nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, David Fleay’s is a wildlife park with a difference. Stroll through the tranquil surroundings to experience some of Queensland’s most iconic natural habitats and meet the resident wildlife — all in just one day. Explore the park solo or join the dedicated Park Rangers at the daily wildlife shows.
Where: Corner of West Burleigh Road and Loman Lane in West Burleigh
Shop With Us
James Street
If you’re in need of some retail therapy then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of indigenous art, expertly curated to celebrate the rich cultural history of Australia’s indigenous communities.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Farmers Markets
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days the farmers market also boast locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. There’s also live music and plenty of laughter floating around. Happy days.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When it comes to heartfelt and delicious food with little fuss, we imagine most people will find themselves siding with Mexican as one of their all-time favourite cuisines. What is there not to love?
Montezuma’s Mexican restaurant in its former spot in the Theatre Arcade of Burleigh was, well, a bit of an institution. For a little over 40 years, they were the go-to spot for many people’s taco and guacamole fix. When the proposed demolition of the arcade began to do the rounds not so long ago, most Montezuma fans began to shed a tear. But the owners had other plans…
Find yourself in the back lanes of Burleigh and you will come across the reincarnated venue, occupying a prime position on the corner as you come out of the Big B arcade and head up towards Park Avenue. You really cannot miss it!
Being perpetually drenched in the afternoon sun, this could very well be your new place to grab tacos (with margaritas of course) for a lunchtime treat.
The interior remains true to the spirit of Montezuma’s with a groovy Aztec/Mexican feel which is by no means cheesy; certainly not as cheesy as their Queso Fundido dip boasting a blend of melted cheeses, onion, peppers and a stack of toasted corn chips. Perfect for sharing.
Once the ball is rolling, we recommend you tackle yourself a combination plate, or better yet a taco platter all with the freshest ingredients and tender as they come meats for you to choose from. Even that always-hungry friend will be satisfied.
For all you vegans and gluten-free folks out there, fear not, these guys have you well and truly covered with a great selection of dishes such as gluten-free tortillas, vegan nachos and the list goes on. Not just the standard one or two picks for you to choose from! Hallelujah!
Keeping yourself hydrated is a serious job, so we highly suggest you try one of the array of margarita’s on offer there, which include: traditional, frozen or blended and a long list of flavours to choose from including bubble gum — yep that’s right. Warning, you may have more than just the one though.
For a refined Mexican experience with a dose of sunshine and genuine hospitality, be sure to check these guys out next time you’re in Burleigh Heads.
LOCATION: 1/19 Park Avenue (in the alleyway from James Street to Park Ave), Burleigh Heads
HOURS: Tuesday to Sunday – Lunch from 11.30am – 2pm and Dinner from 5.30pm – 8.30pm
