Education
Educational needs are met by a variety of private and public educational institutions, ranging from early years through to senior high schooling. The Gold Coast is also home to the prestigious Bond University and Griffith University. Medical students from both universities are trained at the Gold Coast Campus. Other clinical streams such as Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, and Oral Health are trained at the hospital and in the wider health district while undertaking degrees at Griffith University.
Family
The world has changed since the generations that came before us, but the Gold Coast still echoes a time gone by. With low crime rates, a family friendly focus and respect for the diversity of its residents, the Gold Coast is a great place to raise a family. There is plenty of family-oriented entertainment. Whether your interests are on the footy field, in the pool or the surf, or at your local park, activities are easy to access anywhere on the coast. Its no accident the Gold Coast was named the theme park capital of the Southern Hemisphere. With four theme parks located within 20 minutes of Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast entertains children of all ages.
Culture
A vibrant local theatre scene, comedy clubs, art galleries, and live music venues all contribute to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Gold Coast. The recently opened Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre has become the cultural hub regularly hosting major events, exhibitions, and concerts. Lecture series at local universities compete for attention with world class shopping, including boutiques and large shopping malls, as well as beachside markets on weekends and at night. Brisbane is just an hour’s drive away and offers further options typical of any capital city in Australia.
Leisure
Leisure options abound on the Gold Coast. Over 40 kilometres of white sandy beaches and an average of 300 days of sunshine each year make an environment ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and swimming. Expansive bike and walking paths snake along the coastline while leafy parks and sporting grounds are in abundance. Day spas, cinemas and theatres provide further relaxation, or simply enjoy an espresso and the refreshing sea breezes at one of the many beachside cafes.
Sports
Australia is a nation renowned for its love of sport and the Gold Coast is no exception. With a mild climate and pristine beaches its not surprising there are so many water-based outdoor options. Surf lifesaving competitions, beach volleyball, rowing, swim squads, surfing, bodyboarding and organised beach sports are on offer for those who enjoy keeping fit and being active. The Gold Coast is also home to a variety of professional and recreational sporting clubs and associations.
Entertainment
The Gold Coast is never short of entertainment choices. Annual events include outdoor film festivals, Blues on Broadbeach - an annual music festival held in the streets and parks of Broadbeach. A recent addition to the entertainment calendar has been a Sculpture Festival held along the boardwalk of Currumbin Beach. Conrad Jupiters Casino offers fine dining, theatre shows, and gaming. The Gold Coast is also home to the internationally renowned Lexmark Indy racing competition and the national surf lifesaving championships.