We have three Natural Defence Ultra Moisturising Cream 24H from Spanish skincare experts, Skeyndor to give away. This thirst quenching product is ultrarich, yet light in texture for immediate absorption, restoring lost moisture and maintaining levels for 24 hours, making it ideal for complexions in need of continued and intense hydration. More at www.vogueimage.com.au
Spa Fresh is giving three readers the chance to experience the marvellous Jet Lag Spritz, which uses 100 per cent pure essential oils such as Peppermint, sweet Geranium and revitalising Lime Oil to revive and lift your mood during and after travel.
More at www.spafreshblends.com
We have four Baby Foot kits for Life readers to experience for themselves. Composed of natural fruit and herbal extracts, Baby Foot works to peel off the dead and dry skin on cracked feet to reveal silky, smooth skin beneath. More at www.babyfoot.com.au
We have one complete set of La Mav Age Defence Active Skincare which is 100 per cent natural, Fully Certified Organic, and free of any cheap, synthetic ingredients, petrochemicals, parabens and preservatives, for one lucky reader, specifically suited to your skin type. More at www.lamav.com.au
We have three beautiful and functional Daya Designs shower caddies to give away. Designed in Australia and made from acrylic plastic, in a range of clear and translucent colours, they are simple to use, easy to clean and will never, ever rust. More at www.dayadesigns.com.au
The noble art of painting and the subtle art of horse breeding join forces to depict how a winner is made. Retrospect Galleries, Broadbeach has initiated an exhibition to coincide with the major event, The Magic MillionsÇ on the Gold Coast Turf Calendar. The brief for the artists participating in this exhibition was 'aspects of the equine world'. From the intimacy of the race to the majesty of the beast our artists depict in pen and brush their interpretation and love of the horse world. Deb Mostert, Simon Roots, Jan Van Dijk, Jessica Geron, Nick Batchelor, Mike Chavez, Nikky Morgan-Smith, Kathy Mackey, Lisa Lee and Erica Gray are some of the artists participating in this exhibition. Opening 6pm, Friday 13 January. Exhibition runs 13 to 25 January, Retrospect Galleries, Broadbeach.
From 15 to 21 January 2012 you can explore Lamington National Park during O'Reilly's Wildlife Week. Take the family up to the hinterland to experience the magnificent subtropical rainforest and discover the world of pademelons, bandicoots, echidnas, gliders, birds, reptiles and frogs while tracking, trapping and sneaking up on wildlife. Guiding the group this year will be Ian Gynther, a Senior Conservation Officer with the Threatened Species Branch of Queensland's Department of Environment and Resource Management For information and bookings Tel: 1800 688 722 or visit www.oreillys.com.au
Enjoy the action on and off the track with all the colour, excitement, glamour and glorious racing of the BMW Magic Millions Race Day, Saturday 14 January. Head to Gold Coast Turf Club, from 9am and experience the $2 Million BMW Magic Millions 2YO Classic, $1 Million Gold Coast Magic Millions 3YO Guineas and R.M. Williams Magic Millions Cup, as well as Myer Fashion on the Field and other sensational aspects of this internationally famous festival. More at www.magicmillions.com.au
One of the world's most celebrated vocal ensembles, The King's Singers will make their long-awaited return to Australia for the first time in almost 30 years. In a Brisbane debut, The King's Singers will perform one concert only at QPAC accompanied by The Queensland Pops Orchestra on 19 February at 3pm. Bookings www.qpac.com.au or Tel: 136 246.
Featuring The Veronicas Thursday 26 January, Poolside is the place to be as Jupiters Hotel & Casino hosts its fifth and final Pool Party with a true blue twist on the Australia Day public holiday, midday to 6pm. Swimwear or Leisure Wear (please note: to continue the celebrations after the event, Jupiters Hotel & Casino's normal dress code applies). Tickets: From $65 per person including your first drink. VIP packages are available. All ticket types are strictly limited. Book at www.ticketmaster.com.au.
A bald guy in a black suit, stand-up comedian Dave Jory is clever, slick and very funny. With several years of experience as a comedy writer and with performances on hit comedy shows such as Sydney Comedy Festival Gala (Comedy Channel), Last Comic Standing (NBC) and Channel 10's Joker Poker, Jory is acknowledged as one of Australia's best comedians. Friday 13 January. Tickets: $20 (pre-booked) or $22 at the door. Bookings: 5588 4000 or www.theartscentregc.com.au. Dinner and show package available.
Few literary characters inhabit a life of their own the way Mary Poppins has. Queensland born author P.L. Travers insisted that she didn't invent the character, but merely wrote her down. Wherever she came from, Mary Poppins has delighted children and adults alike for decades. Mary and Me looks at the remarkable journey from page to stage, and film, and features original papers from the P.L. Travers collections, archival video and costumes from the current musical version of Mary Poppins. On display at QPAC's Tony Gould Gallery until 17 March and entry is free. More at www.qpac.com.au or Tel: 136 246.
Set to reignite the sizzling live music series on Saturday 14 January 2012 is the ever popular, award winning jazz singer Ingrid James and her swinging Quartet! Performing unique interpretations of songs ranging from classic jazz standards through to timeless melodies from the Beatles and the Beach Boys, this Live and Intimate performance is a must see for lovers of jazz. Supporting Ingrid on stage is UK pianist John Reeves, Andrew Shaw (double bass) Bookings: 5588 4000 or www.theartscentregc.com.au. Dinner and show package available.
Friday 20 January to Sunday 22 January, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. With over 100 Exhibitors this event will have all the ingredients to tantalize your taste buds. From gourmet food to exquisite wines there will be something for everyone to indulge. Admission $15-$45. More at www.foodandwineexpo.com.au
ILLUMINATED Gala Dinner With special guests and unique performances, this will be the premier event during the BMW Magic Millions Carnival! MC is Alison Ariotti from Channel Nine's Today Show and organiser, Andrew Meadowcroft promises plenty of surprises as well. QT Gold Coast, Grand Ballroom. Friday 13 January 2012, from 7pm. Tables of 10 start from $3,500 More at www.magicmillions.com.au. To book tickets contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or gcVIP Events on 0439 824 882.
Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, head to Sanctuary Cove for FREE screenings of family movies under the stars on the Village Green. Pack a picnic or book in to one of the Village restaurants. Movies start 7pm. Friday January 27 will be Cars 2. Star race car Lightning McQueen and his pal Mater head overseas to compete in the World Grand Prix race. But the road to the championship becomes rocky as Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. More at www.sanctuarycove.com/events
With no other show on earth like it, one of Australia's most legendary stories is retold as Australian Outback Spectacular celebrates the courageous spirit of the Australian horse and commemorates the legend that is Phar Lap with the launch of the new show, Spirit of the Horse with a Tribute to Phar Lap. Village Roadshow Theme Parks Chairman, John Menzies said that after a hugely successful run of Heroes of the Light Horse, it was time to introduce something completely new and exciting to Australian Outback Spectacular.
"We decided to dedicate this new show to the legendary Australian story of Phar Lap, further enhancing our cultural heritage and paying tribute to one of Australiaís most courageous and spirited horses," he said.
Australian Outback Spectacular's "Spirit of the Horse" brings to life this iconic Australian story in a specially designed world class arena, featuring an amazing cast of larger than life characters, stunning special effects and magnificent animals including the spirited Australian stockhorse.
The highly entertaining show demands everyone is well fed with forty stockmen and women serving up a gourmet Aussie feast with beer, wine or soft drink to all 1000 guests in record time.
The show, whilst celebrating one of the most remarkable stories in our history, still contains all the modern day fun and competitive spirit of the outback and its people which everyone thoroughly enjoys. Since its grand opening in April 2006, Australian Outback Spectacular has entertained over one million people from around the world, celebrating the proud Australian culture. Audiences have learned about Australia's history, marvelled at demonstrations of world class riding skills, laughed at the gags and enjoyed the friendly competition that develops between the stockmen and women from rival stations in the true Australian spirit. For more visit www.myfun.com.au
A cohesive approach and positivity is what's needed to get the Gold Coast back on track - back to being Australia's premier tourist destination and one of the most sought after addresses in the world. The Regional Development Australia Gold Coast 'Roadmap' is set to do just that.
On 14 December, RDA Gold Coast Chairman Craig Devlin unveiled the Roadmap at the official launch held at Metricon Stadium, to an audience of 180 representatives from government, business and the local community groups - a plan that identifies the needs and priorities of the region.
Over the last 30 years, the twin drivers of tourism and population growth have made the Gold Coast the sixth largest city in Australia. However, the recent economic downturn and strengthening Australian dollar has seen a dramatic drop in tourism presenting a major challenge for the Gold Coast, subsequently impacting on construction, hospitality and retail sectors.
But it's time to stop being so negative. "Let's focus on the things we can change" Mr Devlin said, calling upon local businessmen and residents to show their support and positivity in order for the city to have a prosperous future.
Confident of the positive opportunities available to the region and excited about the role of RDA Gold Coast in driving economic recovery of the city, Mr Devlin reiterated the three key priorities identified within the Roadmap; to create jobs, strengthen the community and enhance the lifestyle and environment.
"Our focus is to reinvigorate the Gold Coast through new education, business and lifestyle opportunities, and to reinforce the message that the Gold Coast is a great place to both visit and live" he said.
Special guest speaker and Gold Coast champion Grant Hackett, shared his experiences in overcoming adversity and focusing on the goal ahead.
"It is the tough times that bring out the best in people - both in sport and in business", Mr Hackett said as he spoke of performing his personal best despite the worst setbacks of his career.
To drive economic recovery - a common focus is needed. RDA Gold Coast has identified seven key opportunities for growth and development of the region and will be focused on supporting initiatives that align with these priorities.
Economic diversity, infrastructure, town planning, affordable housing, community, education and training, and de-regulation made the list.
Mr Devlin is excited about the role of RDA Gold Coast in leading the city to a greater future. For a copy of the Roadmap visit www.rdagoldcoast.org.au.
The founder of Australia's biggest tattoo festival, SURFn'ink, believes the Gold Coast is a hot contender for the title of Australia's most inked city.
"Look around and every second person on the Gold Coast seems to have at least one or two tattoos - celebrities, footballers, surfers, musicians, tradies, even professionals and CEOs", said Marco Ventura, the Peruvian-born Gold Coast tattoo artist and founder of SURFn'ink.
"Many people, including more and more women, want intricate and elaborate designs on their bodies, said Marco.
"Tattoos are a source of pride and a fashion statement. They often tell the story of an event in the person's life or an affirmation they strongly associate with" he said.
A US poll conducted in 2010 reported that 36 percent of 18-25 year olds and 40 percent of 26-40 year olds have at least one tattoo. Marco believes this figure could be higher on the Gold Coast.
"For every person you can see with a tattoo, double that number of people have tattoos you can't see", said Marco.
"Some people keep them hidden because of their profession; others like big, bold tattoos that cover entire sections of their bodies".
Marco said that most people now put a lot of research into what kind of tattoo they want before they make their decision.
"Those planning to have a tattoo done at SURFn'ink have the opportunity to preview the list of artists, research what their artwork is like and make a booking", he said.
"Alternatively, they can come along and watch the artists at work and then book in if the artist has time available", he said.
Set for its third year at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from 13-15 January 2012, SURFn'ink continues to attract an army of international artists, some of whom will travel from as far away as Austria, Greece and England to tattoo at the event.
Headliners at the event will be: famous Japanese tattoo artist, Shige; American portrait artists, Bob Tyrrell and Nikko Hurtado, both of whom have appeared on LA Ink; and traditional Polynesianstyle "tattoo" artist Brent McCown, a New Zealander who now resides in Austria.
As well as including all forms of tattoo culture, from tattoos and body piercing, competitions, industry-focused workshops and seminars, SURFn'ink's 2012 program also includes prowrestling, Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, Capoeira, art fusion, art exhibitions, music and a wildcard heat for the national tattoo pageant, Miss Ink Australia.
Around 15,000 people are expected to visit the three day event.
SURFn'ink tickets are priced from $20 and are available from www.ticketek.com
For those who can't get enough surf, sand and sun, brace yourself - Bleach* Surfing the Fringe is coming. The Gold Coast's premiere and inaugural Surf Culture Festival will celebrate artistic expression and creativity inspired by surf and beach culture via an eclectic mix of pop up art installations, photography exhibitions, film screenings music, food, theatre and fashion events all targeted to represent the surf lifestyle. Bleach* will descend on the spectacular beaches, foreshores and major venues unique to the Southern Gold Coast from 11- 26 February, 2012, and promises to be a must-visit event. An initiative of Connecting Southern Gold Coast, Bleach* will showcase the work of over thirty local and international artists, including celebrated designer, artist and photographer Claudio Kirac, photographers Ted Grambeau, Shelli Bankier, Peter Joli Wilson Trent Mitchell and Sean Scott and author Tim Baker, with more to be announced.
Louise Bezzina, artistic director of Bleach* says the festival will incorporate more traditional gallery settings like Surf World Gold Coast as well as a series of beachside pop up events liberally scattered across the coast, including art housed in shipping containers, mobile music truck concerts, childrenís theatre performances and workshops, a street party in Currumbin and outdoor projections and cinematic experiences. All the events will be geographically spread out and held over different timeframes, making each event seem small and organic in feel, yet Bleach* will be the largest arts festival in geographic size, scope and duration ever held on the Gold Coast. Despite the Gold Coast being home to many of the world's most iconic surf breaks, it will also be the first time that the Gold Coast has hosted a festival that explores the creative side of surf culture. So it's set to be a really unique experience, and we're expecting a great response, Louise reveals. Bleach* will also be timely, as the two-week celebration will ignite across the Southern Gold Coast's iconic surf spots and entertainment venues while the world spotlight is upon them. Nestled in timeframe between elite surfing events like the Breaka Burleigh Pro, the Kirra Teams Challenge, and the world tour Quiksilver Pro and Roxy Pro, Bleach* Surfing The Fringe will showcase the coast's surf- inspired arts and culture to countless thousands of international and domestic visitors.
All exhibits have been hand-picked to ensure a standard of workmanship that will impress. We're delighted with the depth of artistic talent we've brought together for Bleach* and it's going to be world class, Louise enthuses. For more information about Bleach*, visit www.bleachfestival.com.au
The Second Annual Gold Coast Community Christmas Lunch is being organised by a dedicated team from local and business communities to offer a dose of Christmas spirit to those less fortunate this December 25.
In excess of 350 guests were fed, entertained and given gifts at last year’s event, and this year organisers are expecting as many as 500 guests.
“One of our main aims was to make the day really special for our guests, so we didn’t want them to have to line up for their meal in ‘soup kitchen’ style. Instead, we had our volunteers serve our guests their lunch and share the meal time chatting, socialising and enjoying some of the great entertainment on the day,” says team coordinator and local businesswoman Susie Christie.
“Everyone has a story to tell. One lovely family of six attended… the father lost his job six weeks prior and they were forced to leave their rental property and move to a caravan park, with little funds for gifts or Christmas lunch. They had a wonderful day - the kids all received a present from santa and even dad got a new shirt. Mum was also given some vouchers for Coles and Woolworths, which seemed to mean more to her than any gift – she could shop to feed her family.”
There were also a number of elderly locals who would otherwise have spent Christmas alone, and volunteer drivers were rostered on to pick up those guests who were not mobile.
“This lunch is for anyone who wants to attend. They may be alone, or can’t afford Christmas lunch. Whatever their circumstances, they are welcome.
We will have a party atmosphere with plenty of food for all, toys for the children and entertainment throughout the day,” Susie adds.
The logistics of the event are staggering, and organisers are still looking for anyone interested in donating goods and services, especially those willing to drive people to and from the event.
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