From networking events to nuptials, it’s always advantageous to keep abreast of the various function and event spaces on offer on the GC – particularly if you’re an email slinging, card-carrying member of the corporate world.

If you’re in the latter camp, you probably understand all too well that an events venue that ticks all the boxes can be surprisingly hard to come by, which is why you need to know about Robina Events Centre – a state-of-the-art, sustainably minded event space.

Centrally located within TAFE Queensland Robina campus, the innovative venue is one of the newest, and most exciting additions to our events scene. In the few short years since its inception in 2021, Robina Events Centre (REC) has set the bar as a progressive space shaking up the way professionals meet and connect on the Coast.

In our constantly changing corporate landscape, the needs of businesses and professionals are as diverse as they are ever evolving. With everything from environmental practices to tech requirements to consider – REC boasts a variety of versatile facilities and spaces – including eight multi-purpose function rooms that can effortlessly adapt to events of all scales and types.

It’s a forward thinking approach to sustainability that really sets Robina Events Centre apart, with a refreshing, future-focused ethos at the forefront of everything they do. Of the extensive facilities on offer, the largest is the magnificent Anna Rose Room. With the capacity to facilitate up to 300 guests, the multi-purpose, pillarless room has been designed with flexibility in mind – adapting to a multitude of configurations or dividing down to suit smaller functions.

The REC perks also extend to a variety of cutting-edge amenities – such as an expansive foyer, a fully equipped interactive demonstration kitchen, a purpose-built theatre, breakout rooms, a rooftop bar and restaurant and on-site cafe… the perfect pick-me-up to keep the inspiration flowing after a day of corporate hijinks.

For entities and individuals who are also passionate about championing eco-conscious practices, it’s in this area that the change-leading REC shines brighter than a (renewably powered) spotlight on a keynote speaker. Fitted with 250 solar panels and dedicated EV charging stations, the venue has been thoughtfully designed to minimise environmental impact, in addition to ongoing sustainability measures, such as menus designed around locally sourced produce, closed loop composting and plastic-free practices.

It’s an ethos that’s evident everywhere you look- right down to the array of projectors and digital sharing options fitted throughout. The venue has also opted for eco-conscious materials wherever possible, such as the breakout spaces which proudly showcase reclaimed railway planks, and furnishing selections chosen for their high recycled content.

Impressively, REC also converts all its food waste into nutrient-rich compost, which is then donated to a local community garden. The passionate REC crew are just as eager about imparting their eco expertise to help hosts reach their sustainability goals, too – including a free guide that outlines their top ten tips for holding a sustainable event.

Combining environmentally conscious practices with leading-edge facilities? We think you’ll a-green, Robina Events Centre sets an impressive new standard for functions on the GC.

Where: Robina Events Centre, Level 4, TAFE Queensland, Robina Campus, 94 Laver Drive, Robina
When: ‍Monday to Saturday, 6:30am – Late
Website: www.robinaeventscentre.com.au
Instagram: @robinaeventscentre

Words by Kellie Leader.

STORY SPONSORED BY ROBINA EVENT CENTRE.

If there’s one place on the Gold Coast where you can shop till you drop, eat your body weight in quality nosh, do some srsly cool stuff, and wander amongst stunning natural parklands, it’s Robina.  There’s also a hospital, a train station and a sports stadium, one of which is exciting enough to make our list (hint; it’s not the hospital or the train station).

In honour of this central GC gem, we’ve compiled a list of 14 reasons why Robina peeps love their ‘burb, and why wider GC locals travel en masse to experience all it has to offer.

Pasta Emporium
With their Euro background and extensive experience in the food industry, mum and daughter duo Natalie and Sonia have created an artisan pasta boutique store like no other. Made with a high-quality durum wheat semolina (rich in fibre, protein, vitamin B and also digestion friendly), their fresh-as pasta can be paired with a selection of nasty-free slow cooked sauces. The.Best!
Where: Easy T Centre, 514 Christine Avenue, Robina

Palmer Golf Course
Carved out of 65 hectares of native woodlands with fairways lined by towering gum trees, this uniquely designed course is in the top 30 resort courses in the country #noice. A 6078-meter, 18-hole, Par 71 championship golf course (Aust Course Rating 72) designed by the Marsh / Watson team, its rolling fairways, manicured greens, towering eucalyptus and natural water course make it a local and visitor fave.
Where: Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Zone Bowling / Timezone
This dual-branded entertainment venue is an uber-exciting entertainment experience, combining Zone Bowling and Timezone in one renovated super space. Perfect for a birthday of any vintage and for corporate functions, you’ll find ten pin bowling, the latest arcade games, a laser tag arena with a ‘futurism/apocalyptic robots’ theme, and super fun spin zone bumper cars (coming later this year). Just yay!!!
Where: Robina Town Centre, 1 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

My French Pastries
A venue called My French Pastries needs no introduction but since it’s amongst the cream of the crop here on the GC, we’ll give them one anyway. Jen and Antonio Marchesi have created something really spesh with French pastries made from scratch. Think key lime Chantilly, lemon meringue, blueberry and chocolate tarts, and if you’re not salivating, you must be unwell. A special shout-out must go to the scrumptious savoury goodies, providing a well-rounded experience for your tastebuds.
Where: Robina Quays Shopping Centre, 5/361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Eddy + Wolff
The trendiest of the Robina bunch, Eddy + Wolff opened in early 2019 bringing exceptional, modern Asian eats to the people. It’s a sleek, 22-seat venue serving up ten-outta-ten eats, just like it’s northern brother from the same mother, Can Tho Kitchen at Runaway Bay. The menu features BBQ-style dishes, snacks, larger plates and sides, all of which are designed to share and hail from Thao and Vien’s home country of Vietnam, China, Japan and Korea to name a few. The drinks list is tight and perfectly curated to match the food with an unmissable lemon sake. An absolute fave.
Where: 44 Commerce Drive, Robina 

The Kitchens
Fact; foodie marketplace-style situations are one of life’s greatest gifts. The Kitchens is precisely that, with an array of exceptional venues all in the one beautifully appointed area. Think tasty teppanyaki, big ‘ole burgers, a vegan foodie venue and even a craft beer bar offering delicious eats to name a few. There is more choice here than you can poke a stick at and bonus; it’s attached to one of the region’s best shopping centres #UnicornsDoExist.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina 

El Camino Cantina
A good time Mexi-joint at Robina Town Centre, what’s not to love? Rocking one of the most colour-filled interiors you ever did see, a menu packed with family-friendly Mex-cellent eats, and frozen margaritas, it’s love at first sight/bite/sip. The legendary venue is one of seven Queensland restaurants, synonymous with funky neon signage, sweet sombreros, and an all-round winning ambience. Gather the crew and get on it.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

CBUS Super Stadium
Home of our beloved Titans, CBUS Super Stadium is one of the best regional stadiums in Australia and it’s ours, all ours (insert wicked snigger). Not only do Gold Coasters spend their weekends cheering on the boys here, but we’ve also been lucky enough to watch A-league and international football games, the Nitro Circus, and the Rugby 7s as part of the Commonwealth Games. High five to CBUS for being our homegrown hub of sporting joy.
Where: Centreline Place, Robina

Robina Pavilion
A tried and tested (regularly. Very regularly….) favourite, Robina Pav features a sleek look’n’feel, dreamy deck overlooking the water, a specialised kids area, and plenty of good vibes. Boasting a menu packed with epic eats from woodfired pizzas to stacked burgers, it would be rude not to get involved with the impressive cocktail menu #IfWeMust. It’s the perfect spot for sun-soaked afternoon sessions with you posse.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Robina Parkway Dog Park
Obviously one for the locals with hairy mates but if you live further afield and have a furry friend in tow, we highly recommend. There are all kinds of fun things for your doggo to explore including tunnels and hurdles, and they’re bound to make a new buddy or two in the process. If you don’t have a pooch, get down there anyway and score free pats a-plenty #GoodForTheSoul.
Where: Lot 21, Robina Parkway, Robina

Parkway Coffee
Ahh Parkway Coffee how we love thee and your equally irresistible sibling Third Base in Palmy. Like its southern sister, this Robina crowd pleaser offers similar laidback community vibes, and also serves up the same level of tasty brunch eats. Their Reuban Toastie with beef pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, gherkins, and thousand island dressing on golden toasted sourdough is the perf example of Parkway’s culinary prowess. Pair your feed with some quality time in the garden…and day made.
Where: Robina Quays, 361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Cheltenham Park
If open spaces and oodles of greenery, in the middle of a city no less, is your thing (yes please), Cheltenham Park is the business. There are plenty of areas for the kids – human and fury – to run themselves ragged (#yeahmums!) bushwalking tracks, and big leafy trees to stretch out beneath with a picnic and your favourite people. Perfect for escaping the rat race without chewing through the petrol in search of a tree change.
Where: Cheltenham Drive, Robina 

The Sporting Globe
The spacious, sports-themed bar and restaurant made a big splash on Robina Town Centre when it first moved in and continues to do so in 2023. Within The Sporting Globe there are no less than 50 high definition screens including two 5m2 screens and a nine-screen video wall, so yeah nah, you’re not missing a single second of the action. They’re also serving up perfect sport-watching food, frosty bronsons galore, and an all-round cracking good atmosphere. It’s a sure thing.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina

Alpine Indoor Climbing
Robina’s state-of-the-art climbing centre is positively R.A.D if you’re somewhat of an adrenalin junkie, or someone looking for a new sporty-spice-esk challenge. Alpine Indoor Climbing is a favourite amongst both professional and beginner climbers (including those lacking in coordination, AKA us). There are varying levels of challenges and you can go across, straight up, or anyway you like really, and there are cushioned pads underneath should you lose your grip. Good times.
Where: 86 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Words by Bianca Trathen.

When we say Christmas on the Gold Coast, what comes to mind? Fireplaces, hot and hearty food with mulled wine and piping hot eggnog to warm us from the inside out, and (cringe) matchy-matchy pj’s to warm us from the outside in? Sleigh whattttt? Oh soz, our bad – we left out a couple of key words: Christmas on the GC… IN JULY.

So ho-ho-hopefully you’ve been saving room for a feast (or ten) because we’ve found a tree-mendous amount of Christmas in July options that would keep even the big guy in red’s hunger at bay. Get rid of that resting Grinch face because we’re not pudding up with it when there are this many options to treat yo’elf with, go on.. yule want to check them out.

Bon Appetea Teahouse
Fancy a Christmas inspired high tea in a 1900s building with garden tables and a huge sprawling veranda? Yeah, us too! Returning for another year our favourite Hinterland hideaway is bringing Christmas in July high tea back with Christmas carols, live music, mulled wine (eee), little pressies for guests (double eee) and loads of fairy lights. It’s pure Christmas (in July) perfection! Tickets are $80 for adults + $10 for a sneaky glass of bubbles (treat yourself, after all Christmas only comes around.. twice.. a year) and $30 for the kidlets.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
When: Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th July

D’Arcy Arms
There are three things in life that are certain… Death, taxes and D’Arcy Arms are going to put on one hell of a Christmas in July celebration. So if one Christmas celebration isn’t enough (it’s not), get your festive on all July long at D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub! Once again transforming their digs into a festive wonderland with all the Chrissy feels, there will be a roaring fire, succulent Christmas roasts, homemade sticky date pudding with caramel sauce and Oh-HO so much more. Tuck into a 2-course festive feast for $50 per adult and $25 per child.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
When: Throughout July

Spaghetti & Jazz
Spaghetti, Jazz and Christmas in July? Name a more iconic trio… Nothing says cosy, festive feast like a 4-course Italian feast while you listen to the sweet sounds of live music from crowd favourites Tabatha Ashmore and Ivan Fisher. A Christmas-themed cocktail on arrival is mandatory and probably necessary because the team at Spaghetti & Jazz say dancing shoes are a must. Get ready to get your jingle bell rock on.
Where: 30-34 Commerce Drive, Robina
When: 12.30pm, Sunday 21^st July

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Get ready to jingle all the way to Aviary this July! They’re decking the halls and frosting the walls with three fabulous festive events you simply can’t miss.

From 12pm on Sunday 7th July, indulge in a Festive High Tea with high tea towers loaded with sweet and savory festive treats and live music. Elevate your experience (to rooftop level status) and enjoy Aviary’s signature authentic Italian pizzas that are sure to be more lit than a Christmas tree.

On Saturday, 20th July, from 1pm to 3pm, enjoy Sessions: Christmas in July Edition with a two-hour food & beverage package featuring yuletide-themed canapés, a festive grazing station, an eggnog cocktail on arrival, and a roving assortment of Aviary’s signature Italian pizzas (suddenly the stretchy red trousers make so much sense). Guys, tickets are just $65pp + bf… so we suggest you gift yourself a good time and book!

On Friday, 26th July, from 4pm for the White Christmas Party, where you can get your festive fashion on for the ultimate shindig! Dress in white, bask in the glow of UV lights, and enjoy a visual feast. And the best part? Entry is completely free!
Where: Aviary Rooftop Bar, 5 Melia Court, Southport
When: Various dates throughout July

Edgewater Dining
It would be rude-olf us to miss this waterfront gem off the list (if only Santa would bring us stunning water views this good on Christmas morning). Put a big ol’ circle around Thursday 25^th July in your calendar this faux festive season and partake in a 4-course feed, Christmas-themed share-style dinner with paired wines for $110pp. To get the festive spirit going, start the night with mulled wine. Don’t forget there’s also prizes on offer, we’re talking proper wine and dining vouchers here folks. Get into the spirit with Secret Santa for an extra $10 and in case you needed an excuse to bring out the Christmas ‘fits, there’s a comp for best dressed. Bring your friends, bring your family, bring your appetite.
Where: Shop 3 G7, Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri, Surfers Paradise
When: Thursday 25th July

Drag Queen Bingo at Miami Marketta
Secure your Christmas packages and hold on to your jingle bells ‘coz the famous Drag Queen Bingo is back at everyone’s fave night market, Miami Marketta…Christmas style. Sleigh Queen! It doesn’t matter if you’ve been naughty or nice, this enchanting winter wonderland is an all-inclusive affair serving up endless lols. Featuring a lineup with names as big as the hairstyles – Scarlett Fever, Ivyy Monroe and Kathy Pacific, this night will be the gift that keeps on giving #it’sgiving. Don’t be ‘elf-ish and tell your friends! Tickets start from $39.99pp.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: 6.30pm Saturday 27th July

The Collective
Tis the season (well, sorta kinda) and while technically this isn’t a Christmas in July theme, it’s Canadian so we’re going to go ahead and say it qualifies. Celebrate all things North America with The Collective’s Canada Day celebrations, the wintery themed Apres Ski festival is being good vibes and great tunes with a live DJ on the decks, and of course classic Canadian fare like Poutine and Chicken & Waffles to keep toasty and warm. Get in the spirit with their exclusive Grey Goose cocktail menu or snow cones for a taste of white Christmas. Entry is free, snow you won’t want to miss out.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
When: 6.00pm Monday 1st July

Greendays
Welcome to Christmas in July, Bali meets GC style (wow, these are really getting niche). Because who couldn’t use a little mid-year merriment and it’s scientifically impossible have a bad time situated in tropical surrounds with enough fairy lights to make the set of Mamma Mia! blush (unless of course you’re the Grinch, in which case, this may not be the list for you) #hohohoe into delicious food and drinks as Greendays transforms themselves into a winter wonderland with Christmas decos that would make David Jones jealous. Bust out your favourite Christmas attire and get ready for a jolly good time for $106.14pp.
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Rd, Bundall
When: 6.00pm Saturday 27th July

Fox & Hounds
There’s nothing quite like Christmas in London but we’ve found the next best thing, and that’s the Fox & Hounds’ Christmas in July lunches. Tamborine’s wintery, hinterland feel makes you feel like you’re tucked in a pub in the English countryside. There’s a reason people travel from near and far for a seat at the South East’s favourite English Pub. Cosy up by the fire and tuck into a classic roast of turkey and beef and don’t forget to save room for dessert because it’d be sacrilege to not have a taste of Christmas pudding and custard to finish the feed. Served daily and from $40, it’s a whole lot cheaper than a flight to the UK. Thank us later.
Where: Cnr Oxenford Tamborine Road & Elevation Drive, Wongawallan
When: Throughout July from 11.30am, bookings essential for groups

Café Metz
This cute little café in Canungra is famous for its homemade pies and cakes and now, their Winter in July! The fireplace is cranking and the wintery decorations have found the place, ready to turn this spot in a winter wonderland that locals can’t get enough because there’s snowplace like Café Metz. The locally sourced traditional roast ham will warm you up from the inside out along with soup-erb flavours with savoury mince and hearty soups already guaranteed to be crowd favourites. You might still be on the Gold Coast but their spiced mulled wine is giving apres ski so you can relax get cosy by the fire minus you know, the physical activity #winning.
Where: 37 Christie Street, Canungra
Where: Throughout July, from 5.30am to 3pm

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski