Gallop, don’t trot into Cup day at Isoletto Privé!
Gallop, don’t trot into Cup day at Isoletto Privé!
By now you’ve probably heard about the luxurious new resident within Tower One of The Star Gold Coast and yes, we’re talking A-lister here. You can put away your autograph books though, as this superstar isn’t in human form, but rather an uber sleek, lust-worthy pool club and events space. Now generally speaking, you need to be staying in-house or attending a swish event at said venue to revel in its stardust, which leads us to an exciting community announcement. Cue the drum roll please because Isoletto Privé and Lawn is hosting a lavish Melbourne Cup luncheon….and extending the invitation to One.And.All! This means you could be among the first to tag yourself at this ‘it girl’ premises, rocking your race day finery and lapping up the high life. Giddy up!
An affair of this stature will most definitely fill your cup (of fancy French champagne that is), and make you feel cooler than a bag of ice from the servo. Upon arrival, make your way to the stunning sun-drenched deck for premium canapés, a three-hour beverage package, live racing screens, a guest MC, live DJ’s, and more. Be wowed by the organic neutral palette with pops of bright lemon and melon furnishings and yes, balancing tasteful and trendy with Instagrammable finesse. We can taste the oysters and bubbles now, and feel a profound wardrobe crisis brewing coz this place gives good Faaarshion. Speaking of, there’s also Fashions off the field, and our thirst for a red-carpet-worthy look just levelled up a notch #DesignerFrockRentalsComeAtUs.
So back to the VIP vibing eats, start your gourmet grazing off at the Oyster Station. Think seasonal freshly shucked oysters, fresh lemon, mignonette, finger lime, bacon and onion dressing. If these pearl-bearing aphrodisiacs aren’t for you, sashay on over to the Antipasto Station. Here you’ll find a cured and dry selection of meat, chutney, marinated vegetables, and olives which is great, but #ThankYouNext coz cheese. Boasting a vast selection of the most decadent local and international varieties, perhaps don’t size down when you order those designer threads.
Rest assured there’ll be healthy lashings of carbs to soak up the bubbles and ensure you remain vertical. We’re referring to the live Paella Station which could only be upstaged by a live Ravioli Station and yep, there’s one of those too. Watch talented chef’s whipping up these swoon-worthy Spanish and Italian classics, feeding your eyes as well as your tastebuds. Just try not to flick any sauce down your frock, coz that ‘ole chestnut sucks some serious eggs. There are also roaming hot and cold canapes, like Smoked Salmon and Crème Fraiche Blinis, and our eternal edible Achilles Heel, Two Cheese Arancini, with truffle mayonnaise.
Now let’s give a shout-out to the liquid heroes of the day and of course, only the finest drops will grace your lips. For the bubbles loving bae, it’s NV Veuve Clicquot ‘Brut’ Champagne direct from France for the win. For wine warriors, how about a glass of Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc from Martinborough in New Zealand and no, we didn’t just misspell Marlborough. There are also other white and red varieties, plus three beers including Stone & Wood Pacific Ale. For the DDs out there, Isoletto sees you and is putting on an assortment of soft drinks and juices.
So there you have it. Not only will you enjoy a deluxe afternoon of Cup horseplay, but you’ll be flexing some serious fancy and turning the glitterati green with envy. Tickets are $249 per person (plus Eventbrite booking fee) and can be purchased here.
Where: Isoletto Privé and Lawn, Level Six, Tower One, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: 12pm – 3pm, Tuesday 1st November
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol.
Hold your horses, Gold Coasters! The Melbourne Cup is galloping towards us, and The Star Gold Coast is saddling up for a day of glitz, glamour, and good times that’ll leave you chomping at the bit. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just in it for the fashion, food and frivolity, The Star has a stable full of options that are sure to be the ‘mane’ event of your Cup Day.
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Restaurant
This GC institution is serving up a three-course lunch that’s more satisfying than a perfect trifecta, paired with a three-hour beverage package. With live entertainment by the Huddy Faulkner Duo, Fashions off the Field, and a special guest MC, you’re in for a galloping good time! Tickets are $195 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Booth
Ok this one sells out faster than Kingston Rule ran back in 1990 so get on it quick smart! Be the ultimate lady (or lad) that lunches with two premium platters, a three-hour beverage package, live entertainment by Huddy Faulkner Duo, and a special guest MC, you’re in and Fashions off the Field. $2,000 per booth for a maximum of 15 people (that’s only $133 per person if you have the full 15!).
Grab your tickets here.
The Lawn
From the moment the gates fly open to the final glass is raised, a fancy picnic-style celebration on The Lawn is a front-runner this Melbourne Cup Day. Watch the live action on the mega screen and enjoy two decadent platters, a three-hour beverage package, Fashions off the Field, and an epic lineup of live entertainment. Tickets are $600 per high-top (four adults), $900 per high-top (six adults), and $1,500 per picnic table* (maximum 10 adults).
Also on The Lawn, the ‘rein’ing queen of the dance world, DJ Havana Brown, will be on the decks for the ultimate post-race party. The best part? You can mosey on over and watch her spinning up a storm for free! Gi-gi-gi-gimme!
Grab your tickets here.
Cucina Vivo
Giddy up and gallop over to Cucina Vivo for a lunch oozing Italian elegance and fabulous Flemington flair! Indulge in a winning three-course lunch paired with a three-hour beverage package that’ll guarantee a strapping good time. There’s also live tunes by the Kent Dustin Duo, Fashions off the Field to crown the best-dressed filly, and a special guest MC to steer the day’s festivities. Tickets are $199 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Nineteen at The Star
Restaurant
Saddle up high rollers because at Nineteen at The Star (Restaurant), they’re taking Melbourne Cup to new heights – literally! Perched on the 19th floor, this elegant venue offers panoramic views that will delight even the fanciest of fillies. Enjoy a four-course lunch and beverage package, live racing screens, MC Liz Cantor, and Fashions on the Rooftop. Get ready to ‘trot’ your stuff! Tickets are $375 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Bar
This iconic rooftop venue is transforming into the ultimate cocktail party, complete with “Fashions on the Rooftop,” live racing on big screens, and vibes brought to you by DJ Dezastar. Enjoy roaming oyster shuckers, a premium 3-hour canapé package, and indulge in a 4-hour beverage package that includes a glass of Veuve Clicquot on arrival.
Hosted by the fabulous Liz Cantor, it’s the perfect setting for an elegant race day celebration.
Grab your tickets here.
Harvest Buffet
Large groups, listen up! Harvest Buffet is THE go-to for party seekers looking to soak up the pristine pool vibes and a premium seafood buffet, including two chocolate fountains (yes, we said TWO!). Don’t forget the three-hour beverage package (umm, as if), Fashions off the Field, live entertainment with Rene Le Feuvre, and guest MC, local radio icon Moyra Major! Tickets are $140 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Sports Bar
Terrace Package
There’s no place where the Melbourne Cup vibes are vibier than the Sports Bar so frock up or suit up with the Terrace Package for all the live and loud surround sound racing action. Including premium roaming canapes, a complimentary drink on arrival, 20+ screens, state of the art TAB facilities, a cash bar and of course, exclusive access to The Terrace, it’s Sports Bar for the win. Tickets are $95 per person.
Grab your tickets here.
Booth Package
Fancy front-row seats to take in the horseplay? Then you want a private booth at Sports Bar with up to 10 of your best mates. Lap up a $600 food and bev tab, two All Star Platters with 500g chicken wings, salt and pepper calamari, mozzarella sticks, and chips), three garlic breads, three cheesy garlic breads, and branded merch with access to state-of-the-art TAB facilities. $1,200 per booth (that’s only $120 per person with a gang of 10).
Grab your tickets here.
Free Post-Race Entertainment
The Lawn, Garden Kitchen Bar
Don’t miss Australia’s own DJ superstar Havana Brown getting on the decks to keep the party going between 4.30pm and 6pm.
Atrium Bar
For the ultimate post-race party, Atrium Bar is the obvious choice with live DJs pumping out the tunes from the early afternoon. It’s the perfect way to keep the festivities going long after the last horse has crossed the finish line – and it’s free!
Cherry Bar
Another venue serving up charon-hay and other delicious drops is Cherry Bar. Head on over to this luxurious space in main gaming floor for kick-ons and live beats from The Fontosi Bros Duo, DJ Mister P, and DJ Libre. With free entry and a lavish insta-famous 22 metre bar, it would be rude not to.
The Star Grand Hotel Offer
And finally, if ever there was a time to spoil yourself with a luxurious staycation, Melbourne Cup is it. A (minimum) two-night stay in a superior deluxe king/twin room between Sunday 3 November and Friday 8 November will set you back a mere $199 per night (conditions and booking dates apply, subject to availability). Neigh way!!
For tickets and more information on any of the above, stirrup some Cup fun at The Star here.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Various activations on Tuesday 5th November
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be over 18 years to enter the casino, Atrium Bar and Sports Bar. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 gamblinghelpqld.org.au
If you ask anyone what their numero uno ‘must have’ is when looking at staycays here in our beautiful city, chances an insta-worthy (or family-friendly) pool experience would take pole position. Okay, so a cosy spa is WAY more appealing right about now but let’s be real, winter lasts for a millisecond on the Gold Coast and before we know it, we’re back to sweating bullets and channelling poolside hangs.
So our point remains – a pool maketh the staycay, and we’re here to give the low-down on the best pools in town coz girls (and guys) just wanna have sun…and swims…and preferably with a cocktail in hand.
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Awarded Australia’s Best Hotel Pool 2021, take a dip alongside tropical fish in the famous saltwater lagoon and sorry, it doesn’t get much cooler (literally) than this. Enjoy white sandy beaches, waterfalls, and a swim-up grotto. And, for small peeps, the freshwater pool with an epic waterslide will keep them entertained for hours while you chillax in a jacuzzi or poolside cabana #VIP.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Swim in the crystal blue water of the one-acre saltwater lagoon, float around on colourful beanbags, or relax on a sun lounger sipping on an InterContinental coconut! There’s also a 15-metre-long terrace swimming pool and spa, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, reclining sun loungers and plenty of space for family activities. Just like Adele, you’ll be rolling in the deep (end).
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circuit, Hope Island
The Star Gold Coast
The Star houses an all ages-friendly, glisteningly gorg pool side area decked out with cabanas, a relaxing water feature, spas, and plenty of sun lounges and seating. Or, if you’re really hamming it up at The Darling, it’s a case of “to infinity (pool) and beyond”! Situated on the nineteenth floor with breathtaking GC views, this elegant infinity pool is a showstopper.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Dorsett Gold Coast
Dorsett (located within The Star) doesn’t just have a pool, but its own super on-fleek Isoletto Pool Club #TooPoolForSchool! Experience the 12-metre-long viewing wall overlooking Broadbeach, delish light eats and drinks, comfy cabanas around the pool deck, as well as our fave ‘wet lounges’ built into the pool itself! They’ll even deliver your spritzers and cocktails straight to your cabana. Suns out, buns out we say!
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Langham Gold Coast
Whether you love a luxurious indoor pool, or prefer a five-star outdoor pool experience, The Langham has you covered. The 20-metre-long indoor pool is perfect for those channelling a (multi) million-dollar Pacific Ocean view with their workout. Meanwhile outside, another 20-metre-long outdoor pool awaits, with a highbrow swim-up pool bar, a sandy lagoon-style entrance, and plenty of swanky pool lounge chairs. Fancy feels for days!
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Sea World Resort
Another one with its own water park, find us a kid who won’t go bonkers for this place! Whilst the pool and spa area may be closed until the 16th of August for remedial works, the ever-popular SpongeBob Splash Pads and Aqua Play will remain open. Once the maintenance and ‘shoosh-up’ are finished, create everlasting family memories with a 50-metre lagoon, complete with waterfall and soothing 12-seater spa. Bliss!
Where: Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Paradise Resort
Voted Australia’s Best Family Resort for the 11th year in a row, you just know this place gives a good pool! Heaven for kids and paradise for parents, it even has its own water park with a giant water playground, lagoon pool, large, heated spa and two enormous aqua play attractions. And, for mum and dad, stay tuned for the new Parents Retreat unveiled, featuring an adults-only (eee!) swimming pool and lounge bar #KidsWhatKids?
Where: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast
Experience beachfront bliss and soak up ‘dem luxurious feels as you take in the vast pool surrounds – 6,727 square feet of them to be exact! Plus, there’s just something about a pool that’s a hop, skip and a jump away from the ocean! Oh and remember, it’s a rite of passage to treat yo’self to a cocktail or five (daily) at the swim-up bar… no judgement.
Where: 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Mantra Sun City
Aquaholics listen up coz good times and tan lines await at Mantra Sun City. With three swimming pools and a sauna, you can cool off and warm up on repeat or in the words of Dory, “just keep swimming just keep swimming”. The whipper snappers are well catered for here too, with several waterslides making their staycay an adventure they’ll always remember!
Where: 3400 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
Mantra Crown Towers
Relax poolside and get your zen on as you laze by the lush tropical lagoon pool at Mantra Crown Towers. There’s no “I’m bored mum” here, as the kids are too busy living their best life in the splashtastic children’s pool. With its own sandy beach, waterslide and pirate ship, they won’t want to leave – and neither will you!
Where: 19 Palm Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Palazzo Versace
We reckon we’ve seen at least 3 million poolside selfies here last year alone. An exotic poolside oasis, Palazzo Versace showcases an award-winning 63-metre pool with its very own white sandy beach and Australia’s first-ever Water Salon. The exclusive cabanas add a whole new dimension of luxe, with breezy sheers for more private poolside luxury.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Mantra Towers of Chevron
So much water, so little time! It’s an eternal case of pool hair, don’t care when you’re swimming in Mantra Towers of Chevron’s 600m2 lagoon style pool ‘Beaches in the Sky’. Proving that life looks better from a lounge chair, it’s pure #poolgoalz. For those keen to mix things up, there’s also an indoor pool to frolic in, because variety is the spice of life, no?
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Spring racing season is almost upon us once again, and you know what that means, Gold Coasters? Champagne, fancy frocks, and swish-looking suits for everyone.
Because we know you love a party as much as we do, we’ve collated a list of top spots to watch the race that stops the nation while also enjoying bulk food and beverages and probably placing the odd bet or two. Here’s where to spend your day on Tuesday 2nd November — get in quick they’re already selling fast!
The Gold Coast Turf Club
Trackside is the perfect place to be to watch the horsies this year. The Event Centre Package includes entry to the racecourse, non-reserved cocktail style seating, a select beverage package including beer and wine, a grazing menu, watching on the big screen and live entertainment. Tickets are $160pp. Or join in on the inaugural Fashions Luncheon at the Glasshouse with an exclusive Fashions on the Field competition. The Glasshouse package includes a prosecco on arrival and an impressive 6-hour drinks package, two-course lunch, TAB and bookmaker facilities, and reserved seating on long tables — perfect for those bigger groups. Cost is $221pp for members and $260pp for non-members. Or head to the Perch for an event with a difference. For $295pp race-goers will enjoy a five-hour premium beverage package including Veuve Clicquot, premium beer and wine with basic spirits and a delicious grazing style menu served from 12.30pm.
Where: Racecourse Drive, Bundall
Hideaway Kitchen & Bar
Everyone’s favourite Asian-inspired eatery in Broadbeach is back once again with a Melbourne Cup offering you have to get around. Besides a whopping 4-hour drinks package — with nothing held back — you can enjoy an Asian street feast with delectable food stations featuring dumplings, noodles, oysters, and hawker-style BBQ. The talented muso Nick Waters will take you through the afternoon before deciding to continue on or to go home early — the choice is yours!
Where: 2657 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Videre Restaurant
Take in the exquisite views across the Gold Coast whilst indulging in a high tea. For $99pp, a 3-hour beverage package is included accompanied by the sensational high tea Videre is revered for. You cab watch all the live action along with sweepstakes and lucky door prizes. Grab your tickets here.
Where: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa
The Island Gold Coast
Choose between The Birdcage, a G.H. Mumm Gala Luncheon at The Island Glasshouse or their Bubble and Pearls Pavilion at The Penthouse. A Birdcage ticket is $109pp and will include premium beverages and plenty of share-style canapes, live entertainment and fashions on the field from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. The G.H. Mumm Gala Luncheon (from 12pm to 3.30pm) includes G.H. Mumm Champagne (of course), a three-course luncheon, live entertainment and the chance to be crowned the best dressed Duke and Duchess! Tickets are at $209pp, with $10 of every ticket going to their charity partner on the day. Or indulge in the ultimate seated cocktail event on The Island’s Penthouse between 12pm – 3.30pm. You can expect 3.5 hours of beverages (including G.H. Mumm Champagne, select cocktails like espresso martini’s and Aperol spritz and more), a selection of hot and cold canapés with shared plates (with fresh seafood), live entertainment and fashions on the field, numerous prizes for best dressed and hat, sweeps and more! Tickets are $259pp. Whichever ticket you get you’ll be sure to enjoy yourself!
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Bine Bar & Dining
One of the locals favourite bars on the Gold Coast is inviting you down for an afternoon like no other. For a reasonable $35pp, you will get a drink on arrival, and copious amounts of delicious finger food will be doing the rounds. Zak Keenan will be serenading the crowd throughout the day, so all you need to do is show up looking your best and be prepared to let your hair down.
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Avenue, Nobby Beach
Southport Sharks
Southport Sharks have not one but three unique ways for you to enjoy the day. At the main club, you can enjoy a succulent-looking seafood buffet, sweepstakes and best-dressed competitions, a Mr Consistent pop-up bar, a huge screen and handy TAB facilities for your convenience. Tickets are $65pp for members and $80pp for guests. Their Events Centre will take things up a notch with a decadent three-course menu accompanied with a three-hour drinks package, multiple screens, (so you don’t miss any of the action), and live entertainment. Available are tables of up to ten with prices at $99pp for members and $110pp for guests. Why not take things up a level at Aviary Rooftop Bar? Whilst you take in the stunning skyline, you’ll be spoilt with a three-hour premium drinks package, handmade pizzas, a pop-up spritz bar, and a fabulous fascinator competition for all you ladies out there. Early bird tickets have already sold out, so tickets are now $149pp — so don’t hang around.
Where: Corner Olsen & Musgrave Avenues, Southport
The Cavill Hotel
Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style whilst you take in the action from Surfers Paradise’s largest screen. Tickets are $119pp; for this, you’ll have access to onsite TAB facilities, a three-hour food and beverage package, sweeps, fashions on the field and lucky door prizes — more than enough to keep you and your friends entertained!
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for a grand event, look no further than the Grand Ballroom Melbourne Cup Luncheon. A 3 course spring lunch, 3 hours of luxury wine, beer and soft drink accompanied by live entertainment, a fashion show, sweepstakes and giveaways will have you entertained for the afternoon. Tickets are $169 and you can book yours here.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Club at Parkwood
With two sparkling yet different events, you’re bound to have a day you won’t forget in a hurry. Choose from a cocktail party with a difference with a 2-hour drinks package, canapes and platters galore, and prizes for the best dressed for a very modest $79pp. Or if you prefer something a little grander, their sit-down experience in the Grandview room with a 4-hour drinks package and three-course menu should do the trick for $125pp. Live music is being played through both parties, and there’s a good time guaranteed for everyone!
Book your tickets here.
Where: 76 – 122 Napper Road, Parkwood
The Star
Yet again, the Gold Coast’s biggest and best entertainment space comes up with the goods for Melbourne Cup day. So many options and so many venues, which will you choose? More of an Italian lover, opt for a 5-course and 3-hour drinks package at Cucina Vivo for $185pp, grab your tickets here. Looking for a location to boogy and eat some roaming canapes with a 2.5-hour drinks package – look no further than Atrium Bar for $100pp, grab your tickets here. Keen punter? Head directly to the Sports Bar and enjoy all the action uninterrupted, plus enjoy a buffet-style feast for just $66pp, grab your tickets here. Want to have a bit more of a relaxed Cup day amongst some greenery? Garden Kitchen & Bar spoils you for choice with the option to sit outside on the lawn tables with up to 9 of your friends for $1500 per table (grab your tickets here) or inside with a 3-course meal and 3-hour drinks package for $169pp, grab your tickets here. If these events still aren’t delightful enough, elevate the day with heading to Nineteen at the Star with their tickets from $179pp and choose between their bar or restaurant offerings – both accompanied with Veuve Clicquot Champagne of course! And once the race is all done and dusted head to Kiyomi for a post-race feast with their Melbourne Cup Day specials to round out for your fun-filled day.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Collective
Always one to pull out the stops, it’s a Spring Fling at Palm Beach fave The Collective Palm Beach. With three varying packages available between $79pp and $179pp you’ll be sure to find the event for you and your mates. The Stables is perfect for groups of ten or more, set on high tables and chairs at the venue’s front. You’ll enjoy bubbles or beer on arrival and a 4-course set menu. ($79pp) The Courtyard area is available with high and low seating in their courtyard space, where you’ll be treated to a glass of bubbles or beer upon arrival, followed by a 4-course set menu while enjoying Fashions On The Field and live music. ($99pp) Or go the extra mile with a ticket to their Parade Ring ($179pp) which is a cocktail Rooftop party including an oyster bar, extensive roaming canapés and a 3-hour premium beverage package!
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
The Pink Flamingo
Giddy up and think pink at The Pink Flamingo this Melbourne Cup Day! Enjoy a day of racing, raunchiness and rivers of flowing champagne. Limited First Release tickets are currently $125pp; if you decide to get involved, you can enjoy a fork and walk at various food stations and substantial canapes plus a glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival, followed by a three-hour beverage package. Amongst all this, you’ll capture the action on a whopping 10-metre screen before being encouraged to stay for a fun-filled after-party with live DJ. The dress code is (naturally) sexy and sassy!
Where: 88 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
