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7 Gold Coasters bringing home the Gold

Tokyo 2020 Olympics was quite the success for QLDers.

Emma McKeon (image from @emmamckeon Instagram)
Emma McKeon (image from @emmamckeon Instagram)

After the final curtain came down on the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, Australia can very much be proud of their performance across a colossal discipline of sports. Even some events included for the first time like skateboarding, BMX and surfing, where — naturally — we won ourselves some medals!

But how did we do overall? Midway through the 14th of 17 days in Tokyo, Australia surpassed its Sydney 2000 haul and peaked with its all-time benchmark of 17 golds at Athens 2004. So, all up, we saw a nifty performance coming in sixth overall, considering our population is a fraction of those countries towards the top end of the table!

You might not be aware, but some of the gold medal-winning Olympians are devoted Gold Coasters — living and training on our very coastline day in, day out. But who are these people, we hear you ask? Read on and discover the local heroes that have brought home gold to the Gold Coast.

Emma McKeon
This 27-year-old originally from Wollongong is officially Australia’s most successful Olympian — ever. She not only became the greatest medal winner in Australian Olympic history – surpassing Ian Thorpe and Leisel Jones – but the first Australian ever to win four golds at a single summer games. Taking her successful Rio de Janeiro 2016 relay gold into account, she now joins Thorpe as the only Australian to win five golds. In the process, she became the first Australian ever to win the splash-and-dash 50m freestyle and only the sixth person ever to complete the 50-100m freestyle double. Her winning 50m swim also set the new world record!
> Griffith University Alumnus

Jean Van der Westhuyzen (image by @cavan_flynn)
Jean Van der Westhuyzen (image by @cavan_flynn)

Jean Van der Westhuyzen 
Often seen paddling the waters around Varsity Lakes first thing in the morning, this young man originally from South Africa is one of ours now. Jean helped Australia secure its first canoe medal of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games with a gold medal performance in the Men’s Kayak Double 1000m. Along with partner Thomas Green, the duo finished ahead of boats from the Czech Republic and Germany to secure the gold in a nerve-racking race that came down to just 0.3 of a second difference!

“World of emotion, the first thing that comes to mind is I am a man of faith, so I thank the Lord upstairs. The coaches, my family, my beautiful girlfriend, all my best mates, it’s such a big team that goes behind this performance,” Jean van der Westhuyzen said.
> Bond University Alumnus

Tom Green (image from @tom_green_athlete Instagram)
Tom Green (image from @tom_green_athlete Instagram)

Thomas Green
Originally a Gold Coast lifeguard (and an ex North Burleigh Surf Club employee) with the desire to be an ironman, this 22-year-old teamed up with Jean (mentioned above) to take out the Canoe sprint at the Olympics. Having always loved the water and sport in general, he grew his passion for the sport when he first started kayaking at the ripe old age of 10 at the Currumbin Creek Canoe Club.

But it must be mentioned that the best part of this win was that both gentlemen were the first gold medalists for Australia in the 85-year history of the event! Yeah the boys!

Mat Belcher (image from @ausolympicteam Instagram)
Mat Belcher (image from @ausolympicteam Instagram)

Mat Belcher
A Gold Coaster through and through, Mat began sailing at an early age out of Southport Sailing Club and showed promise winning the 420 World Championships aged just 18 years old. Shortly after, he was given a chance to carry the flag at the Sydney 2000 closing ceremony, sparking his desire to be an Olympian. Fast forward and after successful medal-earning appearances at London in 2012 and Rio 2016, Mat and teammate Will Ryan took the gold in the 470s this time around; thus, making him Australia’s most successful sailor of all time. Ironically, he was then asked to be the flag bearer at these games’ closing ceremony — mirroring the same thing some 21 years previously!

“This has been a wonderful Team that has achieved so much. To lead them into the Closing Ceremony means so much. I will be carrying the flag not just for those who are here but for all those now in quarantine back home or headed elsewhere. This will be for all of us.” said Belcher.
> The Southport School
> Bond University Alumnus

Young Keegan Palmer with Mayor Tom Tate (image from Mayor Tom Tate's Facebook)
Young Keegan Palmer with Mayor Tom Tate (image from Mayor Tom Tate's Facebook)

Keegan Palmer
From Elanora skate park to winning gold in front of the entire world, Keegan has secured himself the very first title in men’s park skateboarding — and at the ripe age of just 18 years old! Born in California but then moving to the Gold Coast, he spent the first 14 years of his childhood crafting his skills in and around Currumbin. Going on to then compete in national events and winning the Bondi Bowl-A-Rama in Sydney — becoming the youngest competitor to win the pro division at this event — and claiming his first national title last year at the Australian National Championships. This kid was only ever going to win gold!

Logan Martin (image from @loganmartinbmx Instagram)
Logan Martin (image from @loganmartinbmx Instagram)

Logan Martin
Originally from Logan, we’re more than happy to claim him as one of our own. His career in BMX took off after a chance visit to the skatepark with his brother at the age of 12 — from there, his ability and passion for BMX rapidly took off. After a series of stints in overseas competitions, he went on to win the International Festival of Extreme Sports in 2015 and 2016, and in the same year, he debuted at his first X-Games in Austin, Texas, where he secured himself silver.

Interestingly he went on to spend a whopping $85,000 on a skate park in his backyard on the Gold Coast: that’s dedication, folks!

Martin secured the inaugural gold medal for freestyle BMX within the first 60-seconds of his finals run at Ariake Sports Park when none of his competitors were able to match his top score of 93.3. It meant our Queenslander could put the nail in the coffin with a front bike flip to put the finishing touches to his sport’s spectacular Olympic debut.

Chelsea Hodges (image from @chelsea.hodges Instagram)
Chelsea Hodges (image from @chelsea.hodges Instagram)

Chelsea Hodges
A long-time member of the Southport Olympic Swim Club, Chelsea represented Australia for the first time at the World Junior Championships in Indiana in 2017. She then became a prominent member of the 2018 Youth Olympic Games, where she won silver in the 50m breaststroke and the 4x100m medley relay. Now, in 2021 at the age of 19, Chelsea went on to qualify for her debut Olympic Games after placing first in the 100m breaststroke trials final. Always looking like she would do great things, individually, she placed 9th overall; however, the Gold Coaster was part of the gold medal-winning Women’s 4x100m Medley Relay, posting an astounding time of 1:05.57 in her leg.
> Benowa State High
> Griffith University Alumnus — currently studying nursing.

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

8 rejuvenating Gold Coast soak and float centres

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

Life inevitably takes its toll – you don’t have to tell us twice. Whether you’re juggling work, children, or a questionable affection for rosé (guilty), your body and mind are going to feel the effects. Enter: the ultimate fix, the humble soak session. Okay, it may not solve ALLLLL of your problems, but we promise it’s a good start.

In order to achieve an upgraded level of vitality and mindfulness, you needn’t go it alone. You’ll require some assistance, and this is where soak and float centres come in. These are the kind of spaces where tranquil surroundings and expert insight go hand in hand to pull you from that long road to ruin: a five-minute break with a strong cup of tea just isn’t going to cut it these days.

We took it upon ourselves to do some research, and lucky for us, the Gold Coast has a sizeable selection of such places where you can unwind, soak and nourish yourself back to previous glory. Here are our top 8 picks to recuperate and rejuvenate when rosé life has gotten the better of you.

Soak Bathhouse
Conveniently located in Mermaid BeachSoak Bathhouse is the comprehensive answer to looking after yourself with a holistic approach. By their own ethos — it’s time to start feeling great again — they invite you to experience opulent mineral spa baths and steam rooms. If you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the cold plunge that sits at a very fresh 10 degrees to get the blood pumping. But it’s so much more than just a spot for a soak, if you’re after the full wellness experience why not add on an infared sauna, LED facial or massage? Because health is wealth. If soaking up the vibes with a beverage in hand is more your vibe then the Soak and Sip is a must-do, we’re partial to their Wine Not Wine Pouches because rosé all day! And if you feel the need to hit the emails between sauna and plunge pool circuits, they have a gorgeous co-working space to nut out some work.
Where: 2532 – 2540 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Soak Bathhouse, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)
Soak Bathhouse, Mermaid Beach (image supplied)

Greenhouse The Bathhouse
The Bathhouse team were behind one of the original venues to open allowing you to soak your weary body and relax in a serene setting. Now nestled in Tallebudgera Valley – the ultimate destination for relaxation if you ask us – Greenhouse The Bathhouse has everything you need to switch off and kick back for a few hours. Soak up a 90-minute session in their magnesium spas and then soak up some rays (using protection of course) on the sun terrace and garden lounges. An ode to traditional bathhouses and sweat lodges, they offer intuitive massages on demand and have even got a beautiful restaurant and botanical bar onsite so you can refresh and rehydrate.
Where: 286 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Tallebudgera Valley

City Cave Float & Wellness Centre (image supplied)
City Cave Float & Wellness Centre (image supplied)

City Cave Float & Wellness Centre
Seeking the ultimate relaxation with added health benefits? Yep us too. City Cave Float and Wellness Centres have six convenient locations across the Gold Coast and specialise in float therapy, remedial, sports, pregnancy and relaxation massages while also offering Infrared Sauna facilities. It’s about time you look after your mind, body and gut at City Cave with their holistic services.
Where: Markeri St, Mermaid Waters, 76-84 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina, 3/201 Ferry Road, Southport, Helensvale Plaza Shopping Centre, 12 Sir John Overall Dr, Helensvale, 340 Hope Island Rd, Hope Island or Shop 2, Coomera Square, Coomera

The Bathhouse at Ground
As if you needed another reason to take a sojourn out into peaceful Currumbin Valley, you can certainly add this new decadent bathhouse to the list. Set within the tranquil grounds of the Currumbin Eco Village, book yourself an hour here and simply let life’s stresses fade away. Spend your 60 minutes of luxury jumping from giant hydrotherapy spa pools to a genuine Finnish sauna before sinking into a refreshing pool packed with salty goodness all under the canopy of their gorgeous fig tree If this isn’t enough for you, be sure to book a massage or other heavenly treatment which take place in their adjoining fairy-tale-looking century-old Queenslander.
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley

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

Native State
Another goodie for the southern Gold Coasters, Native State is where luxury, wellbeing and peak performance coexist in perfect harmony – sounds pretty inviting if you ask us. The marriage of gym, movement classes like yin and vinyasa yoga if you want to get it om, and of course the bathhouse is pretty much everything you need in one spot. Native State offers both casual sessions as well as full studio memberships if you can’t enough of the holistic health haven.
Where: 3/2 Creek Street, Coolangatta

Native State, Kirra (image supplied)
Native State, Kirra (image supplied)

Floating Away
Float therapy sounds exactly like our kind of therapy, Floating Away is the ultimate spot to do just that in your own float tank and leave the weight of the day behind. It’s that time of year when we’re pretty much crawling to the finish line, so a session of sensory deprivation to escape the outside and immerse yourself in a deep state of relaxation sounds like just what the doctor ordered. Or why not sweat it out before you soak it up in their infrared sauna? Guaranteed to leave you feeling rejuvenated. Because we’re all about that journey to self discovery we were totally intrigued by their Yoni Steaming offering. An ancient practice of vaginal steaming and yes, you read that right – a steamer for your nether region – the Kardashian-approved treatment helps to promote circulation and hormonal balance. It’s basically a facial for down there. Because every part of you deserves self-care.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Level 1/75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Floating Away, Broadbeach (image supplied)
Floating Away, Broadbeach (image supplied)

Organic Aum
Possibly one of the Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets, Organic Aum, a Japanese fusion day spa, is a hinterland haven nestled in Lower Beechmont. With natural rainwater used to fill the spas before being topped with magnesium, the open-air wooden hot spas are the ultimate place to beat muscle fatigue or wind down for some stress relief. Now when you visit our beautiful hinterland it makes sense to make a day of it. If you’re going solo our pick is one of their indulgent facials or if you’re planning on making a date of it their massage rooms are perfect for two. If you’ve been trying to find a way to relax and recentre we’re big fans of a sound healing session (if you haven’t tried it, you need to) and Organic Aum introduces the Singing Ring – a new instrument invented in Japan – that uses crystal-infused metal to cleanse, recharge and refresh your energy. Sign us up.
Where: 113 North Road, Lower Beechmont

organic aum, Japanese fusion private day spa (image supplied)
organic aum, Japanese fusion private day spa (image supplied)

The Banya
Ok, so it’s not technically on the Gold Coast, but like Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman, we’re happy to claim it! Set in the heart of the ‘biggest little town in Australia’, The Banya is a total #mood. Indulge in allll the offerings, from lap pools to hot mineral pools, a wood-fired sauna, steam room, and a refreshing cold plunge hugged by lush foliage and cobblestone pathing. With 5 massage treatment rooms and a rooftop sundeck, relaxation awaits. Post-soak, savour a leisurely lunch or drinks at the on point on-site bar and dining. Explore small share plates, nutritious options, and a selection of wine, cocktails, and health elixirs – perfect complements to elevate your relaxation experience. Namaste!
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

The Bathhouse, The Banya, Mullumbimby (image by Kristian Beek)
The Bathhouse, The Banya, Mullumbimby (image by Kristian Beek)

12 of the best Sports Bars on the Coast

Footy season at Sports Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
Live sports at Sports Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

Picture this: the game’s on, your crew’s assembled, the beer is icy cold, and the only thing louder than the crowd is your mate who suddenly thinks he’s the coach. Anything less than this elite setup? Unacceptable. But finding the ultimate spot to soak up the action – one with massive screens, solid feeds, and an atmosphere that screams game on – isn’t always an easy feat.

Luckily, we’ve done the legwork (no pre-game warm-ups required) and rounded up the best sports bars on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or just here for the snacks, these Gold Coast sports bars (listed north to south for your convenience) have you covered. Now, go forth and cheer responsibly – or, you know, as loudly as possible.

Hope Island Tavern, Hope Island (image supplied)
Sports Bar at Hope Island Tavern, Hope Island (image supplied)

Hope Island Tavern
This coastal-cool tavern has had a massive glow-up, and sports fans, you’re going to love this one. The brand-new sports bar is stacked with mega screens, TAB access, and an ice-cold beer lineup that’ll keep your thirst quenched from the first whistle to the final siren.

Not just a sports haven, this revamped spot also brings next-level pub bites (hello, Prawn & Bug Rolls and Salsiccia Pizza) and a lush beer garden perfect for pre-game pints or post-match celebrations. Add in a pool table, air hockey, and weekly entertainment, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate sports, sips, and good vibes HQ.
Where: 93 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island

Crafty’s Sports Bar
Shopping and sports? An unexpected MVP combo. Smack bang in Harbour Town, Crafty’s lets you mix and match – stock up on the essentials, then settle in for some top-tier craft beers and next-level eats while you catch the action. Or, better yet, let your partner hit the stores while you lock in for the game. Win-win.
Where: Harbour Town Eats – 147/189 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters

Crafty's Sport Bar (Image: © 2018 Inside Gold Coast)
Crafty's Sport Bar (Image: © 2018 Inside Gold Coast)

Ashmore Tavern
If you haven’t checked out Ashmore Tavern’s $5 million glow-up, now’s the time. With a revamped sports bar (hello, sleek screens and balcony views), daily live sports, and a lineup of delicious eats, this place is serving up the action in serious style.
Where: 161 Cotlew Street, Ashmore

The Cavill Hotel
When it comes to bigger is better, The Cavill delivers – literally. With one of the biggest screens in Surfers, this is the place to park up, grab a drink, and catch every second of the action in all its larger-than-life glory. Bonus points for booking a table so you can cheer on your team in style.
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines, Surfers Paradise(Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines, Surfers Paradise(Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines
This place is a game-changer – literally. Sitting pretty on the most iconic corner in Surfers, The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines is a state-of-the-art sports mecca, boasting wrap-around digital screens, a killer menu, and an on-site microbrewery. Oh, and the city’s largest circular island bar, so you’ll never be more than a few steps away from your next cold one. Game on.
Where: Cnr Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Broadbeach Tavern
Broadbeach Tavern is a coastal icon and your go-to for catching all the live sports action. Whether you’re watching the footy, cricket, or the latest game, the Sports Bar has you covered with huge screens showing every play, goal, and try. Catch all the sports action on the big screens or relax on the spacious deck with a drink in hand, enjoying the sunshine and ocean breeze.
Where: The Oasis, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach

The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach (image supplied)

The Beach Hotel
Fat Freddy’s may be gone, but what has replaced it? A revamped, reimagined, and ridiculously good sports bar that blends beachy vibes with big screens. The Beach Hotel Broadbeach has more screens than ever, so you won’t miss a second of the action. With wall-to-wall TVs in the Public Bar, a breezy Beer Garden, and a menu that’s part pub grub, part chef-hatted magic, this spot delivers top-tier viewing, top-tier bites, and top-tier vibes. Game on.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

The Star Sports Bar
If sports bars had a podium, this one would be standing front and centre, medal gleaming. With 23 massive screens, private booths (yes, you can pre-book them like a VIP), and a huge 10.5-metre mega-screen, The Star Sports Bar is where legends are made – on and off the field. Add in the iciest beers and a smorgasbord of top-notch food options, and you’ve got yourself a championship-level experience.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Main Gaming Floor, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

The Sports Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)
The Sports Bar, The Star Gold Coast (image supplied)

The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill
When it comes to knowing what sports fans want, The Sporting Globe has it down to a fine art – and a nationwide lineup of venues to prove it. Expect wall-to-wall screens, daily food specials, and an electric atmosphere that rivals the final seconds of a tied game. Heading to a Gold Coast Titans match at Cbus Stadium? These legends will shuttle you there and back, so you can focus on celebrating (or commiserating) properly. Now that’s a game plan we can get behind.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town CentreRobina

Burleigh Bears Leagues Club
Can’t make it to the big game in person? No worries! Burleigh Bears Leagues Club is your ultimate sports haven on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re in the Lounge or the Sports Bar, this place has it all – big screens, a relaxed atmosphere, and the best spot to catch every moment of the game. With cold beers flowing and friendly staff making sure you’re looked after, it’s no surprise that this spot is a top pick for sports fans.
Where: 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami

The Sporting Globe Bar and Grill, Robina (image supplied)
The Sporting Globe Bar and Grill, Robina (image supplied)

Burleigh Town Hotel
Burleigh Town Hotel isn’t just playing the game – it’s winning it. Home to an 11-metre mega-screen (the biggest pub screen in the southern hemisphere, no less), this place is an absolute showstopper. Add in a suspended cylinder screen so you can see the action from every angle, plus a sleek new bistro for pre-game feasting, and you’ve got yourself a spectator’s paradise.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads

Coolangatta Hotel
On the southern end of the Coast, The Coolangatta Hotel is the prime location to catch any sporting activities and be assured of a buoyant and passionate atmosphere. Pair it with a splash and lounge on one of Coolangatta’s famous golden beaches, and then be sure to stick around for the post-game live music, and you are onto a hole in one.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Belinda Symons

Burleigh Town Hotel (image supplied)
Burleigh Town Hotel (image supplied)

Southport Yacht Club Watersports Centre

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