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Janene Porter

Meet the General Manager of Irish Pub, D'Arcy Arms.

Tez & Flossy St Patricks Day at D'Arcy Arms (image supplied)
Tez & Janene 'Flossy' Porter on St Patricks Day at D'Arcy Arms (image supplied)

As we fast approach the notorious St Patrick’s Day, we used up the luck of the Irish to interview the General Manager of the oldest Irish Pub on the Coast, D’Arcy Arms. Janene Porter (nicknamed: Flossy) who has been busy gearing up for the St Patty’s celebrations gives us an insight into the history of the traditional pub and also a feel-good miracle story that comes from the establishment.

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I started commuting between the Gold Coast and Port Douglas in 1987 when I was apart of the crew on Mirage III, based at Marina Mirage. I then relocated to live permanently on the GC in January 1990. 

What do you love the most about living here?
It’s the perfect balance between coastal surroundings and city living. Ultimately it’s the climate, beaches, hinterland, the overall easy-going lifestyle and of course, the locals. 

Tell us about the history of D’Arcy Arms.
The pub was established on 8th August 1988 by founder Roy D’Arcy. D’Arcy Arms is an icon and is the longest-standing Irish venue (with a motel) on the Gold Coast. A great little story I love to tell is one of our former staff members, Robyn, was able to meet her biological father thanks to working at D’Arcy Arms. It all happened when a patron was chatting to Robyn and it was mentioned she had never met her father. The patron managed to find Robyn’s father, who was living in Guernsey at the time, which resulted in them connecting and meeting – they have been in contact ever since. It’s incredible because she would have never met her father if that patron hadn’t stopped in for a Guinness at the D’Arcy Arms.

D'Arcy Arms Foundation 1988 (image supplied)
D'Arcy Arms Foundation 1988 (image supplied)

What’s the craziest story to come out of D’Arcy Arms?
What goes on at the D’Arcy Arms stays at the D’Arcy Arms! Many of our patrons have been loyal since the pub opened in 1988. The D’Arcy has always been fortunate enough to have amazing support from both the local Irish & Aussie communities.

What can people expect at D’Arcy Arms for St Patty’s Day?
We have a full St Patrick’s Festival starting on Saturday 13th March. On Saturday and Sunday we are open from 12pm with incredible live Irish music, Irish dancing displays, delicious Irish Fare and plenty of craic! On the actual international St Patrick’s Day (Wednesday 17 March) we have a full day of entertainment starting at 10am with a line-up of Irish Musicians including: The Gathering, Munster Bucks, Mark Butler, The Carolan Academy of Irish Dance & Pipe Band. We will accompany this with delicious Irish fare, gift giveaways and of course the best Guinness, Kilkenny & Magners on tap, just to name a few things!

Tell us a fun fact, how many pints of Guinness are consumed at D’Arcy Arms on St Patty’s Day?
Honestly, you lose count!

Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Café for breakfast:
Hot Shott
Coffee spot: I am a Main Beach local, so anywhere on Tedder Avenue for a good coffee.
Restaurant for dinner: I’m more of a lunch girl and have many favourites from Burleigh, Broadbeach and Main Beach.
Bar or pub for a drink: The D’Arcy Arms of course!
How does your weekend usually look?  I am usually at D’Arcy Arms as our weekends a very busy, but l do always start the day with a long beach walk. When l occasionally have a weekend off, a long lunch with friends is always on the cards.

St Patricks Day 2018 at D'Arcy Arms (image supplied)

Top St Patrick’s Day venues on the Gold Coast

St Patrick's Day (image Unsplash)
St Patrick's Day (image Unsplash)

Ahhh St Patrick’s Day, you’re almost upon us. A day when even those who don’t drink beer (because wine) reach for a pint of Guinness, tuck into a hearty Irish stew, give their best Riverdance rendition a crack (generally after said pint of Guinness), and say “to be sure, to be sure” wayyyy too many times.

This year, it’s a case of the luck of the Irish because St Pat’s falls on a Friday (17th March), so there’s no excuse not to don something green, crank B*Witched full blast, and head out for some local Irish cheer.

Do we know the best places partial to a St Paddy’s celebration? To be sure, to be sure (see, we’re already doing it). Here’s a list of top Gold Coast spots to get your green on from north to south.

Food at Harrigan's Calypso Bay (image supplied)
Food at Harrigan's Calypso Bay (image supplied)

Harrigan’s Irish Pub
Because one day just isn’t enough to enjoy Harrigan’s delicious Irish food and drink specials, they’re doing it for three days straight from Friday 17th till Sunday 19th. On Friday from 11am, enjoy live music from David McCrystal and get your jig on with Juggling Leprechaun Irish Dancers. On Saturday from 1pm, Sarah Caldwell be performing live, as will the Limerick & The Shamrock Dancers. Finally on Sunday from 1pm, Asleep at the Reel will be pumping out the live tunes like only they can!
Where: Harrigan’s Lane, Jacobs Well

Paradise Point Bowls Club
Embrace your inner Irish (coz surely we all have a long-lost relo from the Emerald Isle in our family tree) on St Pat’s Day at the Paradise Point Bowls Club. Catch the McNeill Academy of Irish Dance from 6pm to 7pm, followed by the Mitchell Fold from 7.30pm to 10.30pm. To add to the festive spirit, they’re putting on special deals on traditional Irish food and drinks, including a Guinness Filo for $8, Irish Stew with Mash, Veges & Irish Soda Bread for $25, and Guinness and Kilkenny cans!
Where: 22 Thrush Avenue, Paradise Point

St Patrick's Day at Dublin Docks Tavern (image supplied)
St Patrick's Day at Dublin Docks Tavern (image supplied)

Dublin Docks Tavern
Harbour Town Premium Outlet’s favourite neighbour Dublin Docks is never light on Irish cheer, particularly not on St Paddy’s Day! There’ll be live entertainment, Irish dancers, best-dressed prizes, Irish nosh, Guinness and Kilkenny on tap, and green beer. But we should issue a very valid warning here; too many of the latter may induce the Irish flu (aka a humdinga hangover)! Currently choccas for lunch, never fear because you can still get amongst it at the Sports Bar, Bistro and Gaming, all open from 10am.
Where: Harbour Town Drive, Biggera Waters

Southport Sharks
Another venue where one day of St Pat’s shenanigans just isn’t enough! Enjoy Irish sounds and flavours with two days full of quality Irish entertainment. On Friday and Saturday, get your gobber on with $13 Beef and Guinness Pies at Frenzy’s (drool). Epic Irish band O’Leary & The Munsterbucks will be rocking the main stage on Friday, then The Filberts (an equally epic Irish band) will give you all the Irish feels on Saturday.
Where: Cnr Musgrave and Olsen Avenues, Southport

Finn McCool's Interior (image supplied)
Finn McCool's Interior (image supplied)

Waxy’s Irish Pub
Always a sure thing for a hearty feed and Irish beer fix, Waxy’s has traditional Irish charm in spades!  Set in the heart of Surfers Paradise, you’re guaranteed to find an Irishman (or 50) here spread amongst 2 levels of entertainment, including the stunning Skyline Rooftop Bar. On St Paddy’s Day soak up the live tunes, Gold Coast Pipe Band, McNeill Academy of Irish Dance, and much more. Sláinte!
Where: 3206 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Finn McCool’s
Witness a sea of green take over Cavill Avenue at Finn McCool’s! All the crazy craic will be kicking off at 10am on St Paddy’s Day, with free entry and Guinness galore! You’ll have a grand ‘ole time celebrating all-things-Irish as traditional Irish dancers and pipe bands hit the stage! So tell Siri to remind you to swing by the $2 shop and stock up on silly Irish stuff now because Finn punters get involved!
Where: 39 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

St Patrick's Day, Darcy Arms Hotel (image supplied)
St Patrick's Day, Darcy Arms Hotel (image supplied)

D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub
It’s not just a day, or even a weekend, it’s a full-blown St Patrick’s Fest at this much loved local Irish icon. Over the three-day extravaganza, catch Mark (and Mary) Butler, Salliana Campbell, Munster Bucks, the Carolan Academy Irish dancers, the GC Pipe Band, Tartan Shamrock, and of course, The Gathering (woot!). Head down for some traditional Irish fare and what’s sure to be the best time outside of the motherland itself!
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise

The Local Tavern
The Local are bringing back a part of the old Lansdowne Road Tavern and guys, we salute you #RIPLandsdowne. Enjoy some of your Irish faves this St Patrick’s Day, an all-day breakfast, Guinness and Beef Pie, and other chef specials! We’ll forgive you for leaving a chubbier little leprechaun #MoreToLove. Available only on St Patty’s Day so get it while you can!
Where: Chevron Renaissance, 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Exterior of The Local, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Exterior of The Local, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Steampunk
Steampunk are all about a party and LBR – St Patrick’s Day is the ultimate excuse! Get your green on and celebrate with classic green beer, Guinness (obvs), specialty cocktails, live music and much more. Oh and it’s also Fishbowl Friday….and just like that, we’re suddenly 19 again #OhTheMems. Book now so you don’t miss out!
Where: 3113 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Beverage offerings at Finn McCool's Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Beverage offerings at Finn McCool's Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

13 Gold Coast bars for day drinks

Palm Springs Cafe (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Let it be known, we are quite the fans of basking in the sunshine and drinking icy cold tipples whilst gazing appreciatively at pretty views. In fact, those three things are right up there when it comes to our top reasons for living on the Gold Coast in general.

We suspect you might feel the same so, in celebration of summer and getting amongst all the goodness on offer, we’ve collated a list of the 14 best spots to drink frosty daytime beverages for maximum sun soaking opportunities.

Palm Springs Cafe
Miami’s new addition is indeed a cafe, but not as you know it. Found on the highway, where Siam Thai once lived, Palm Springs Cafe is unmissable, all white washed with pops of green – Southern California style. Inside it’s absolutely beautiful, the menu is packed with goodness and the best part – morning cocktails of the Margarita, Espresso Martini and Bloody Mary varieties. As early as you like. Best.
Where: Cnr Gardenia Grove and Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Rooftop bars are up high (surprise), so it makes sense they would get even more sunshine and even more balmy breezes, making them the perfect spot for daytime drinks. Aviary Rooftop Bar has a sweet little outdoor section called The Nest, it’s an uncovered space with cute pops of colours and 180 degree views toward Surfers Paradise. See, perfect.
Where: Melia Court, Southport

Burleigh Brewing Co.
Laidback beers around a table full of mates is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Particularly when said beers are local made by a team of absolute legends who know what’s up when it comes to brews. Burleigh Brewing Co. is all those things and more, found just off the beaten track and ready to cater to all your day drinking needs. Weekend sorted.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Pavilion (Image: Amanda Hibbard)

Burleigh Pavilion
This place was pretty much made for day drinking – right on the beach at Burleigh, with guaranteed life-changing sunset views, all your favourite beers on tap, Frosé (a revelation), plenty of fancy cocktails and lots of tasty each, there’s really nowhere better than Burleigh Pavilion to don your fave oceanside drinking outfit and gather the crew for a good time.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Garden Kitchen & Bar
It goes without saying a venue with the word garden in it is a good choice for day drinking. Garden Kitchen & Bar found in The Star Gold Coast, is a delightful mix of pretty insides and expansive, outdoor sunshine-filled spaces so you can alternate between the two and cram in as many good times as possible. One of our absolute favourites.
Where: Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Southport Yacht Club
Talk about jaw dropping views. The Southport Yacht Club is perched on the edge of the marina in Main Beach and with a huge outdoor deck, lawn space and even a white sandy beach, there are plenty of spots to kick back with a drink in hand and pretend one of those multi-million dollar yachts is yours. Drinking and dreaming, it’s definitely allowed.
Where: 1 Macarthur Parade, Main Beach

Rick Shores
Another Burleigh beauty, Rick Shores recently reopened with an updated menu and drinks list. Not that you need any extra incentive to go there because, bug rolls. With uninterrupted ocean views, and maybe even a salty splash or two, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to spend your drinking days. Get dressed up and grab the girls, this one is unmissable.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Precinct Brewing Co.
A brand new brewery on the Miami / Burleigh block is Precinct Brewing Co. by the good people who brought us a slew of epic local venues (Bine Beer Bar, Nightjar, Hideaway etc.). It’s a converted garage on Christine Ave and the team are going to be brewing an array of unique sips, they serve beloved Mr Consistent cocktails AND they’re serving up pizzas, fried chicken and all of the perfect beer-accompanying eats. Pop in for frothy and see it for yourself.
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami

Justin Lane
Burleigh’s much-loved rooftop bar is a no brainer when it comes to day drinks. Sunshine pouring in, an open roof and LOTS of other fun lovers enjoying the frivolities. Treat yourself to a pizza to go with those cocktails and that is one of the best days out you can possibly have. Oh and did we mention there are ocean views and people watching opps aplenty. Yes please.
Where: 1708 – 1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Lost Palms Brewing Co.
Miami’s pretty pink brewery is the GOODS guys. There is a basketball hoop for your playing pleasure and what could be better than sinking beers with your pals, while also sinking hoops and being outside in the fresh air. Not much we say. If running around isn’t your thing, pull up a seat along the fence and sledge those willing to give it a go. Or don’t and just drink beer.
Where: 11 Oak Avenue, Miami

Balter Brewing (Image: Destination Gold Coast)
Balter Brewing (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Club
Without a doubt, one of the most spectacular venues on the Gold Coast in terms of five star views is Currumbin Vikings. It rises directly out of the ocean and offers views of the city to the north and as far as Tweed Heads to the south. It’s a little bit magical to be honest and an absolute cracker of a spot for day drinking and counting your lucky stars you’re a Coastie.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Balter Brewing
Another of our epic breweries is the one and only Balter Brewing, found in Currumbin’s cool-as industrial area. The indoor space is good enough but there’s also an outdoor strip with umbrellas and bench seating and colourful cushions for lazing about with a beer in hand. Get a designated driver and taste test every single one. Best spot for a Sunday session.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters

Mr PP’s Rooftop Bar & Deli
Another bar up high is Southport’s Mr PP’s, overlooking the Southport cityscape and with plenty of space for all your pals. Found in the old post office building, there’s a deli downstairs for all your charcuterie needs plus plenty of pizza options to go with those tasty cocktails you’re sure to consume. The perfect spot for a long lunch that stretches into the evening.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Words by Kirra Smith

Stylish new brewhouse BOBs Beer opens in Surfers Paradise

BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

If there was one thing that Surfers Paradise was missing, it was a stylish brewery complete with it’s very own range of epic beers and a menu that is unlike anything you’ve seen in a brewery before. But that one thing is missing no longer thanks to the long-awaited opening of BOBs Beer this week.

Found on the corner of Elkhorn and Orchid Aves, in the heart of Surfers Paradise, the stunning new brewery is a must-visit not only because of an impressive range of frosty brews on tap and the aforementioned impressive menu but because the fitout is one of the very best we’ve seen in a while and you’re going to absolutely love it.

BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Being on a corner block means the venue offers plenty of window seating so you can sit back and watch the bustling world of Surfers Paradise roll by. There’s a little outdoor seating section if you’re keen to catch a breeze but inside is where all the Insta-worthy goodness can be found.

The first thing you’ll notice are the growlers suspended from the roof that have been transformed into light fittings and second, the bar made with beer taps that are actually huge copper pipes and behind that, the brewery itself. It all comes together absolutely perfectly and we are huge fans.

Waygu Beef Burger, BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Now let’s chat beer because that’s what we all came for and BOBs is of course, a working brewery led by famed (former) Melbourne brewmaster Ryan Fullerton who knows what’s up when it comes to beer. He and his team have been busy brewing and already you can get four BOBs Beers on tap ( a lager, IPA, XPA and a Saison), with four more on the way.

The idea is to always have eight in-house brews on offer and the rest of the taps to be taken up by other Australian brewers.

Oysters, BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’d prefer a cocktail there are sips like the Monkey Business with Mr Black Coffee Liqueur, Flor de Cana 5yo rum, banana and coffee and the Buffalo Berry with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Fino Sherry, Raspberry, Orange and Soda. So lovely. There’s also an extensive wine and sparkling list and A LOT of thought has been put into every single aspect of it.

To eat, as we said, there’s an incredible menu filled with bites you might not expect to find at a Surfers Paradise brewery — for example savoury profiteroles with craquelin, ricotta and King Island Mousse, oysters with mignonette, shallots, shitake and topiko and a chicken dish with carrot and pumpkin gels and purees and a chicken jus. All extremely delicious (tried and tested by us).

Savoury Profiteroles, BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Of course there’s also a Waygu Beef Burger (so good), premium steaks and fries with aioli.

The entire venue boasts a few finishing touches that really make BOBs Beers something special – for example a stamp to brand the ice cubes (played with that for way too long) and plates made out of leftover grain from the beer production (how good).

Not to mention the team is planning to open a whisky bar downstairs in the coming months. It’s all happening in Surfers Paradise Gold Coasters, you’re not going to want to miss this one.

BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

LOCATION: 10/2 Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
HOURS: 12pm to 12am daily

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

BOBs Beer (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
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