The Gold Coast is bracing for one of the biggest months on the event calendar, with May set to deliver 12 major events across the city.
The events showcase is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors to the region and inject almost $60 million into the Gold Coast economy.
In addition to the return of global showcases like the Gold Coast Pro and the milestone 25th anniversary of Blues on Broadbeach, the city will welcome it’s very first Women’s State of Origin match when it hosts Game III of the Women’s State of Origin.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said May was shaping up as one of the most exciting months on the Gold Coast calendar.
“There is nowhere better to be in May than right here on the Gold Coast. This is our region at its absolute best,”Mr Warn said.
“To see the world’s best surfers in action, major sporting moments, cultural festivals and the pinnacle of marine events all take place in the same month shows the Gold Coast has made its mark as a world class events destination, delivering a calendar that few places can match.
“A large portion of these events are free or affordable, making it easy for everyone to be part of an unforgettable month on the Gold Coast.”
The Gold Coast Pro wrapped up on Monday after making its highly anticipated return to Snapper Rocks with the world’s best surfers descending on our shores.
Surf culture will continue its sweep of the Gold Coast, with the Flotsam Film and Photography Festival popping up across the coast from 1–15 May, followed by the Australian Interschools Surfing Championships from 13-15 May.
Sessions Surf Festival will bring a week-long celebration of surf, music, film and art to the region from 23–30 May.
Back on land, Blues on Broadbeach will celebrate its 25th anniversary when it takes over the Broadbeach precinct for four days of rhythm and blues from 14–17 May.
While from 21–24 May, Sanctuary Cove will welcome the much-loved Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Mulpha events and partnerships general manager Corey Rattray-Wood said it was anticipated to draw huge crowds to the northern Gold Coast.
“Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show continues to cement its reputation as a world-class marine event, attracting strong interest from local boating and leisure enthusiasts alongside a growing number of intrastate and interstate travellers who plan their visit around the four-day show,” Mr Rattray-Wood said.
“We expect to host over 45,000 visitors at this year’s event, while also welcoming global marine giants who continue to invest in Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show as the
premier destination for Asia-Pacific debuts.”
Full May event program
- TRL QLD State Championships, 1 – 3 May
- Gold Coast Pro (WSL Championship Tour), 1 – 11 May
- Flotsam Festival, 1 – 15 May
- Bowls Queensland State Championships, 11 – 24 May
- Australian Interschools Surfing Championships, 13 – 15 May
- Blues on Broadbeach, 14 – 17 May
- Cooly Classic Ocean Swim Festival, 16 – 17 May
- Careers Festival, 20 – 21 May
- Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, 21 – 24 May
- Sessions Surf Festival, 23 – 30 May
- Ampol Women’s State of Origin Game III, 28 May
- Volleyball Queensland Intermediate Schools Cup, 29 – 31 May
