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The stunning Swell Sculpture Festival is back for 2020

From Friday 11th to Sunday 20th September.

SWELL Festival 2020 (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

In some of the absolute greatest news of 2020, the Swell Sculpture Festival is happening across the city starting Friday 11th September.

It has obviously been quite some time since we’ve had a festival, or any kind of cultural event to attend and we are absolutely thrilled.

No doubt you’ve had the pleasure of visiting the festival before but in case you’re new to the Coast (welcome, good choice) here’s a little rundown.

Swell Sculpture Festival is a free, 10 day outdoor sculpture festival created by the people, for the people. And we, the people, love it very much.

It’s a celebration of narratives and stories spoken through the artworks produced by local, national and international artists and we’re all encouraged to immerse ourselves within the sculptures set amongst the natural landscape of Currumbin Beach.

SWELL Festival 2020 (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

The 2020 festival (not a thing we thought we’d type) showcases 50+ works of art by nationally and internationally renowned artists with pop-up exhibitions presented as westerlySWELL in The Village Green, Mudgeeraba, northerlySWELL in the Cultural Precinct, Helensvale and the SWELL Smalls Gallery at Dust Temple, Currumbin Waters.

Free art everywhere. What a revelation.

The SWELL Smalls Gallery is already running at Dust Temple, so you can get started there if you can’t wait until Friday.

Speaking of, there are a number of workshops and live music events you can get involved in throughout the festival including life drawing and a poetry evening.

You can also choose to go on a guided twilight sculpture walk or listen to one of the free artist talks throughout the festival.

Of course, there’s plenty for the kiddies too including the popup Storyfest library with live storytelling events, online workshops and film nights.

SWELL Festival 2020 (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Check out the entire program here.

Throughout this years’ festival you can expect to see plenty of new artists faces and some absolutely mind-blowing creations and honestly, what could be better than strolling around barefoot on the sand marvelling at life-size art installations? Not much we think.

Get down to Currumbin Beach from Friday September 11th until Sunday September 20th.

A festival, what a treat.

WHEN: September 11th to 20th, 2020

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

SWELL Festival 2020 (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Currumbin Boatshed

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

18 reasons locals love Currumbin

The Bread Social, Currumbin Waters (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
The Bread Social, Currumbin Waters (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Currumbin is the gift that keeps on giving, and locals just can’t get enough! From lush wildlife sanctuaries and delectable dining spots to vibrant cultural hubs and scenic coastal views, this coastal gem truly has it all.

Whether you’re an avid foodie, nature enthusiast, or culture vulture, there’s something here to tickle your fancy and keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into 18 of the endless reasons why Currumbin is the place to be.

The Homestead, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Currumbin (image supplied)
The Homestead, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Currumbin (image supplied)

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
If there’s one place that’s been synonymous with Currumbin for as long as we can remember, it’s Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled within a lush 27-hectare outdoor sanctuary, people of all ages can enjoy a variety of fun and educational shows, feed the lorikeets, cuddle a koala, visit the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, and enjoy a bite to eat at The Homestead. Enjoy 10% off adult/family general admission on us here.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin

Tommy's Italian, exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Tommy's Italian, exterior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Tommy’s Italian
From day dot, Tommy’s stole a pizza our hearts with its incredible Italian nosh partnered with the breathtaking backdrop that is Currumbin Beach. Expect familiar favourites but served Tommy’s style (fresh, authentic, and using the finest local produce) prepared with passion. Do yourself a favour and book on the upstairs balcony – it’s the spritz to your Aperol.
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Chicos Taqueria, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Chicos Taqueria, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Chicos Taqueria
This is the fast and fresh Mexican we’ve all bean waiting for, served from a vibrant nook that radiates geniality.  Serving a loud and proud curation of Mexican-Aussie faves, Chicos leans in to super fresh ingredients (delivered daily) and bold flavours. The no-risk, all-reward menu offers all the classics, namely tacos, enchiladas, burros, burritos, and nachos. It’s quac-en good.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters

The Bread Social, Currumbin Waters (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
The Bread Social, Currumbin Waters (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The Bread Social
Get b-ready! After baking out of The Farm in Byron for eight years, mates Sam Saulwick, Tom Scott and Paul Giddings moved the entire operation to a huge new space on Queensbury Ave. The café design invites patrons to peep on the bakers, involving us in all aspects of sourdough bread and pastry production. Think scrolls, croissants, tarts, baked cheesecake, cookies, sandwiches and more.
Where: 2 Queensbury Avenue, Currumbin Waters

Tarte Beach House, Currumbin (image supplied)
Tarte Beach House, Currumbin (image supplied)

Tarte Beach House
Cult flavourite alert! We were shook when our Burleigh-based numero uno Tarte Bakery launched a bigger and slightly more refined big sis lunch venue. Tarte Beach House is an elegant combo of Paris meets The Hamptons, while looking out over the crystal-clear waters of Currumbin. All items are made completely in house using the freshest ingredients possible, and the mouthwatering menu changes seasonally.
Where: 2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin

Kinship Cafe, Currumbin (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Kinship Cafe, Currumbin (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Kinship
Nestled underneath the Currumbin SLSC’s new Junior Activity & Community Centre is the kool-as Kinship. Rivalling all the edgy hipster haunts, its menu combines fresh and trendy takes – such as brekkie tacos and biscoff crumpets – along with your classic cafe faves. The breezy beachside spot offers sit-down service, along with plenty of equally delicious portable options for peckish passersby.
Where: 766 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Foccacia Pugliese & Coffee, Aperitivo Cafe (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Foccacia Pugliese & Coffee, Aperitivo Cafe (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Aperitivo
If a charming Italiano café full of character is your vibe, you’ll fall head over heels for Aperitivo. Tucked away in Thrower Drive, nom your way through tasty focaccias, paninis, arancini, sfogliatelle, Roman style pizza, lasagne, cannoli, tiramisù, and grazing boxes to order. Go on a weekend and you and your pooch can pull up a pew in neighbour Currumbin Dental Care’s quaint garden space next door.
Where: 8a Thrower Drive, Currumbin

Little Vine Room exterior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Little Vine Room exterior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Little Vine Room
We are so grapeful for this piece of paradise. Decked out in delicious deep green and apricot hues, Little Vine Room is as pleasing to the eyes as its food and sips are to the palette. Think cheese and charcuterie plates, gourmet toasties and jaffles, and a spread of sensational bites, paired perfectly with wines for days and top tier cocktails.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters

The Bathhouse at Ground (image supplied)
The Bathhouse at Ground (image supplied)

The Bathhouse at Ground
The Bathhouse offers the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation in the stunning Currumbin Valley, forming part of the Ground community hub. Think mineral enriched hydrotherapy spas, a plunge pool, traditional cedar hot tub, therapeutic cold bath, large wood fired hot stone sauna, an outdoor infrared sauna, massage, and bespoke facials. Tranquilly personified.
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley

Soundlounge, Currumbin (image supplied)
Soundlounge, Currumbin (image supplied)

Currumbin RSL
I mean, who doesn’t love an RSL and this one is the MVP. Set on the banks of picturesque Currumbin Creek, Currumbin RSL also known as ‘The Best Little Club in The World’, is a multi-award-winning boutique style show-stopper. With delish global grub, a pizzeria, hand-crafted drinks, and Soundlounge, a live music lounge with some of the best acoustic artists, everything this place touches turns to solid gold.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin

Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pasture & Co, Currumbin Valley (image: ©2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Pasture & Co
Embracing the eco-friendly philosophy with gusto, Pasture & Co is a must-visit family-friendly café with d-lish healthy eats, a prime location, friendly service, and an environmental conscience. Committed to nurturing both people and the planet, self-sustainability, and supporting small local businesses, don’t skip this one!
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley

Fuel Bakehouse, Currumbin (image supplied)
Fuel Bakehouse, Currumbin (image supplied)

Fuel Bakehouse
Serving up some of the absolute best doughnuts you’ll ever eat is Currumbin’s Fuel Bakehouse. With varieties like Nutella, custard and salted caramel to name a few, calories don’t count here so buy at least four of each. It’s not just doughnuts though, they also do epic pies, cruffins, croissants; all of the baked goodies – and cracking good coffee. Perfection the lot of it.
Where: 44 Currumbin Ck Road, Currumbin Waters

The Salt Mill
A tiny little space directly across from the beach, The Salt Mill is one of the Coat’s most beloved cafes for a reason. Several in fact. They do exceptional coffee, takeaway sandwiches, Açai bowls (arguably some of the best around), smoothies, fresh juices, smashed avo, raw treats – everything that is delicious in the world. Buy one of everything then stroll across the road and take in that unrivalled ocean view.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Consciously Clean (image supplied)
Consciously Clean (image supplied)

Consciously Clean
Consciously Clean is the place to go if you need to stock up on anything and everything eco-friendly in terms of home and body cleaning goods. They have a system where you can bring in your own jar or bottle and fill it with the product of your choice (or purchase one there) – and it’s all very affordable. Not only that, but you can also grab food containers and wraps, drink bottles, pet things, and skincare too. It’s a one-stop shop. We love.
Where: 4/42 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

Freeman’s Organic Farm
For a tree-change, make sure you add Freeman’s to your weekend rotation. The farm was established in 1915 and in the 1920’s, became the largest commercial banana farm in Australia. Today, the farm grows all organic produce which you can purchase (grocery shop – tick), plus grab a bite and an organic 3 Elements coffee at The Farm Café. Enjoy your treats and take in the sensational hinterland views.
Where: 618 Tomewin Mountain Road, Currumbin Valley

Currumbin Valley Brewing, Currumbin (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Currumbin Valley Brewing, Currumbin (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

Currumbin Valley Brewing
Currumbin Valley Brewing, crafted by local brewers Pete “Smokey” Wheldon and Luke Ronalds, is the newest gem in the creekside area’s growing list of watering holes. Featuring a 10hL Rolec copper-clad brew house, this taproom and brewery took several years and community support to bring to life.
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters

Dust Temple
All your favourite arty aspects combine at Dust Temple, an ex-warehouse turned gallery, coffee shop, and creative community hang. Hosting local, national and international artists, musicians, poets, an in-house ceramicist, a leatherworker, and a silversmith, it’s certainly a place to go if you need to feel creatively inspired. Amp up the happy vibes with a coffee while you’re there.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

Balter Brewery
You’ve heard about it and if you’ve not yet had the chance to visit, make today the day. Balter is the brainchild of your fave local pro surfers combining two of the things we Gold Coasters love the most, beer and waves. It’s a delightfully decked out space with big old beer vats on display, a sweet mural on the wall, and plenty of outdoor spots to sit. Happy days.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin

Words by Bianca Trathen

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