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Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
The leading destination for an unforgettable event.
Situated in the heart of the vibrant Gold Coast, we offer world-class, versatile spaces designed to accommodate events of any size. Our commitment to excellence in service and state-of-the-art facilities promise to produce unforgettable event experiences for every single attendee.
Surrounded by luxurious hotels, fine dining and stunning beaches, our venue offers more than just an event space–it’s a gateway to a truly exceptional experience.
At GCCEC, we don’t just host events; we craft memories that last a lifetime. From unparalleled service and exceptional spaces to award-winning culinary expertise and arenas for events of any kind, you can count on us to set the stage for total event satisfaction. When it comes to hosting unforgettable gatherings, if it’s happening on the Gold Coast, it’s happening here at GCCEC!
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10 Things to Do Within Walking Distance of GCCEC
When your event wraps up for the day, there’s no need to travel far to experience the best of the Gold Coast. Located in the heart of Broadbeach, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) puts delegates within walking distance of world class beaches, shopping, dining, entertainment and more.
Whether you have 30 minutes between sessions or a free night to make the most of, there are plenty of ways to maximise your time beyond the venue doors. Here are 10 things to do within walking distance of GCCEC.
1. Take a stroll to Kurrawa Beach
Just a five-minute walk from GCCEC, Kurrawa Beach is the perfect place to start or finish your day. Go for a morning wander along the shoreline before your event begins, cool off with a dip, or relax and take in nature after a busy day of networking with your feet in the sand. For something extra special, head down at sunrise or sunset and experience one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic coastal views.
2. Shop until you drop at Pacific Fair
Whether you’re looking for a little retail therapy, a souvenir to commemorate your stay or somewhere to enjoy a leisurely lunch, Pacific Fair can be reached in less than 30 minutes’ walk from GCCEC to perfectly fill out a free afternoon. With more than 400 stores, the shopping precinct offers everything from luxury brands and Australian favourites to cafés, restaurants and entertainment options. It’s the perfect place to explore during a break between sessions or extend your stay after your event.
3. Visit The Star Gold Coast
Conveniently connected to GCCEC via a pedestrian bridge, The Star Gold Coast makes it easy to enjoy world class dining, entertainment and nightlife without too much travel time. From casual bites and cocktails to live entertainment and special events, it’s a convenient option for delegates looking to relax, celebrate or catch up with colleagues after an event. Now this is networking done right!
4. Wander through Cascade Gardens
Pack a picnic and some snags to grill on the barbecue or just enjoy the serenity of Broadbeach’s Cascade Gardens. With a waterfront pathway, playground equipment and the unique Kokoda Memorial Walk, these tranquil gardens are family friendly and feature beautiful traces of Aboriginal culture, offering beautiful green backdrops and a convenient natural reset. And didn’t you hear? Getting out into a lush, natural environment provides the perfect atmosphere to get creative juices flowing. Practicing speeches has never been so pretty.
5. Explore Broadbeach Mall
Stroll through Broadbeach Mall and discover one of the precinct’s most vibrant and classically Gold Coast outdoor spaces. Lined with cafés, restaurants, boutique stores and places to sit and soak up the atmosphere, it’s a great spot to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee before a morning session or enjoying an afternoon stroll, Broadbeach Mall offers a relaxed taste of the local lifestyle.
6. Go on a Broadbeach dessert crawl
Why settle for just one sweet treat when there are options aplenty? Broadbeach is home to a plethora of dessert destinations, making it easy to create your own after-conference challenge. Sample tooth-achingly tasty frozen yoghurt creations at Yo-Chi, be wowed at rolled ice cream created fresh at Milk and Marble Rolled Ice Cream Co., explore the warming and colourful offerings at Goo-E Dessert Bar, or sample a chunk of chocolate chip heaven in the form of Brooki’s cookies. The question remains: which treat will be crowned the sweetest?
7. Jump on the G:link to Surfers Paradise
Whilst not strictly walking distance, this one gets by on a technicality! One of the best things about staying in Broadbeach is how easy it is to explore more of the Gold Coast. With the G:link station located right outside GCCEC, delegates can walk to the tram stop and hop on the next tram to reach Surfers Paradise in minutes, without needing a car. Spend your free time exploring the iconic Cavill Avenue, strolling along the beachfront, visiting SkyPoint or simply taking in the energy of one of Australia’s most famous holiday destinations. The sky is truly the limit.
8. Dine your way through Broadbeach
Broadbeach is renowned as one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations, offering something for every taste. From award winning restaurants and fresh seafood to casual eateries, international flavours and hidden laneway bars, there’s something for every palette in this corner of the Gold Coast. Whether you’re planning a team dinner, meeting colleagues for drinks or grabbing a quick bite between sessions, Broadbeach has you covered.
9. Relax in Kurrawa Park
Need a quiet moment away from the event floor? Kurrawa Park offers open green space, ocean views and plenty of room to slow down. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy takeaway lunch, catch up with colleagues or simply recharge between sessions. And with the Kurrawa shore just beyond, it’s a peaceful escape right in the heart of Broadbeach. Winner. Make sure to keep an eye out on the What’s On Gold Coast event calendar here for updates on community happenings in the park, as you can find anything from sports events to country music concerts on these grassy banks.
10. Take a scenic coastal walk
For those wanting to experience the Gold Coast at a slower pace, a coastal walk is the perfect option. Take your pick of following the beachfront pathway north towards Surfers Paradise or south towards Mermaid Beach and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views along the way. Keep an eye out during whale migration season in late May to early November, stop by one of the many beachfront cafés or simply enjoy the salty coastal air before heading back to GCCEC.
Make the most of your time at GCCEC
Whether you have a spare 30 minutes, a few hours between sessions or an entire evening free, Broadbeach makes it easy to experience the best of the Gold Coast without travelling far.
Short on time? Try a quick walk to Kurrawa Beach, explore Broadbeach Mall, or relax in Cascade Gardens.
Have a couple of hours up your sleeve? Shop at Pacific Fair, challenge your colleagues to a dessert crawl, or enjoy a fresh coastal walk.
Planning an evening out? Dine your way through Broadbeach or visit The Star Gold Coast.
The options are endless, and so is your itinerary. If you’re looking for a destination that delights, get in touch.
GCCEC Delivers for the Gold Coast in FY26
The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GGCEC) delivered on its role as a major economic driver for the city, contributing an estimated $383 million to the Gold Coast economy in FY26.
Now in its 23rd year of operation, GCCEC continues to attract strong repeat business, with returning events accounting for more than 60 per cent of its business, reflecting the strength of its client relationships and continued confidence in the destination.
Events held throughout the year spanned a wide range of sectors, with medical and wellbeing, education, and retail among the largest. This demonstrates the venue’s versatility, hosting everything from conferences and exhibitions to graduations, sporting events and community celebrations.
Nick Jeffrey, General Manager of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, said the results reflect the powerful flow-on impact of business events across the city.
“Business events are a powerful driver of high value visitation, bringing people to the Gold Coast with a clear purpose to connect, learn, collaborate and do business.
“Delegates are not just attending an event; they are experiencing the city. Delegates stay in our hotels, dine in local restaurants, visit attractions and experience the city first-hand, creating opportunities for return visitation, future investment and greater awareness of the Gold Coast as a business events destination.”
Rachel Hancock, Head of Destination & Engagement at Experience Gold Coast, said the Centre’s performance highlighted the important role business and major events play in supporting the city.
“The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre is a cornerstone of the city’s visitor economy, consistently hosting large-scale events ranging from concerts and sporting matches to conferences and exhibitions all year round.
“With business event visitors spending, on average, 57 per cent more than leisure visitors, the sector delivers significant benefits for accommodation providers, restaurants, attractions and businesses across the Gold Coast.”
The Centre enters the new year with strong momentum, with a program of new and returning events secured, including several multi-year agreements that will deliver ongoing value for the Gold Coast.
GCCEC’s new Director of Event Delivery
Experienced industry executive Avril Harris has joined the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) as Director of Event Delivery.
In the newly created role, Avril will lead and integrate the Centre’s event, operations and technology functions, driving innovation and operational excellence to support consistently high service standards and future growth.
Her appointment follows her role as Executive Director of Events at Experience Gold Coast, where she led event strategy and stakeholder engagement across the city. She brings more than two decades of events experience and a deep understanding of the Gold Coast’s visitor economy, industry partnerships and broader events landscape.
Nick Jeffrey, General Manager of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, said the appointment reflected the Centre’s focus on further enhancing leadership and operational capability for the future.
“The scale and complexity of our operation require leadership that can connect people, systems and infrastructure around a shared standard of delivery. Avril will play a central role in strengthening how our operational teams work together, building accountability across the Centre and ensuring we are well positioned to meet the evolving needs of our clients.”
Commenting on her new role, Avril shared she was looking forward to building on GCCEC’s strong operational foundations, bringing its teams and functions closer together and ensuring the Centre remains equipped to deliver exceptional events as client expectations and industry demands continue to evolve.
Best Sunrise and Sunset Spots on the Gold Coast
Gold Coast’s famous stretch of coastline boasts its fair share of world-class attractions. Glistening waves, exciting events, lush hinterland and over 300 days of sunshine each year leaves the city no stranger to demand and excitement. While delegates might grace our shores for a conference, exhibition or gala event, many come to find that there’s plenty more to explore beyond the halls of the Centre.
One of the biggest advantages of hosting your event at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre is the unbeatable location, perfectly primed for convenient access to some of the Gold Coast’s most spectacular sunrise and sunset locations. Whether it’s basking in morning rays before a keynote presentation or scoping out the perfect golden hour stroll spot after networking drinks, this list of scenic viewpoints will have your plans covered.
Here are some of the best places to catch the sunrise or sunset, all within easy reach of GCCEC.
Kurrawa Beach
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 5-10 minutes’ walk
For delegates staying in Broadbeach, it doesn’t get much easier than Kurrawa Beach. A stone’s throw from GCCEC, this stretch of coastline offers front row seats to one of the Gold Coast’s signature sunrises.
As the sun glides up over the Pacific Ocean, watch the sky transform into dazzling shades of peach, pink and gold, creating the picture-perfect backdrop for a morning coffee or beach walk. With a wide foreshore and the added benefit of calming ocean views, this spot is a favourite with locals, runners and visitors alike.
For an easy way to start the day feeling refreshed before heading into a packed conference schedule, Kurrawa Beach is not to be missed.
Burleigh Head National Park
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 15 minutes by car
A local (and global!) favourite, Burleigh Head National Park offers one of the Gold Coast’s most scenic vantage points.
The Oceanview Walk wraps around the headland, with several lookouts providing sweeping views across the coastline towards Surfers Paradise. Sunrise is particularly breathtaking here, while sunset brings warm golden light across the cliffs and surrounding beaches.
Delegates looking to add a little movement to their itinerary will enjoy the short wander through coastal rainforest before arriving at showstopping panoramic ocean views. And for a little-known locals’ tip: Beat the peak hour traffic by heading here bright and early for a spectacular canvas of colour before a busy day.
The Spit
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 20 minutes by car
If uninterrupted ocean views and wide sands are your idea of the perfect sunrise, The Spit certainly delivers.
Located at the northern end of the Gold Coast, this quieter stretch of coastline is ideal for photography, morning walks or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere before the day begins.
With smaller crowds than some of the city’s central beaches, it’s an excellent option for delegates wanting to escape for an hour before returning to their event.
Tallebudgera Creek
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 20 minutes by car
Known for crystal blue waters and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, Tallebudgera Creek is equally impressive at sunrise and sunset.
Early mornings bring quiet reflections across the water and a perfect place for some morning meditation or yoga, while late afternoons see the surrounding trees and sandstone cliffs glow luminescent in the fading dusk light. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, paddleboarding or slowing down after a busy day of meetings.
For delegates extending their stay, pencilling sunset in at one of the Gold Coast’s hidden gems won’t disappoint.
Point Danger
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 30 minutes by car
Perched on the border of Queensland and New South Wales, Point Danger is one of the few places where visitors can watch the sun rise over the water while enjoying uninterrupted views along both coastlines.
The elevated lookout provides panoramic vistas stretching from Coolangatta to Snapper Rocks and beyond, and during whale migration season, there’s also a chance to spot humpback whales passing offshore.
If you find yourself with an early morning free, grab a hot drink, a good pair of sunglasses and head down to Point Danger. We promise it’s well worth the short drive.
Mount Tamborine
Distance from GCCEC: Approximately 50 minutes by car
While the Gold Coast’s beaches are famous for sunrise, the hinterland steals the show at sunset.
Mount Tamborine offers postcard-worthy lookouts overlooking the Scenic Rim, where you’ll find rolling green hills, fresh rainforest and distant valleys bathed in warm, amber afternoon light. Popular viewpoints such as Rotary Lookout provide incredible sunset panoramas that feel worlds away from the city.
If you’re staying an extra day or have an afternoon free, perch on the hill with a few nibbles and a picnic rug and you will enjoy the perfect cosy end to your day.
GCCEC places visitors in the centre of one of Australia’s most desirable destinations, with beaches, rainforest, restaurants, shopping and natural attractions all within short reach on foot, tram, or car. Delegates can begin the morning watching the sunrise over the ocean, attend a full day of presentations and finish with sunset drinks overlooking the hinterland or coastline.
This balance of business and lifestyle is one of the reasons the Gold Coast continues to attract conferences, exhibitions and corporate events from around the world and delegates experience strong satisfaction rates during their time here.
Plan your next event on the Gold Coast
When your venue is just moments from famous beaches, showstopping hinterland and calendar-marking sunrise and sunset experiences, every event becomes bigger than just a meeting.
At the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, delegates can enjoy the convenience of staying close to the venue while experiencing everything the Gold Coast has to offer in one easy package. Whether they’re extending their stay, venturing out between sessions or simply maximising their visit, unforgettable moments are just waiting to be captured.
Ready to host your next event in one of Australia’s most naturally beautiful destinations? Discover why GCCEC continues to be the venue of choice for conferences, exhibitions and events on the Gold Coast.
FAQ
When is the best time to view sunsets and sunrises?
If the idea of sleeping in a little more than a 4:30am wakeup is piquing your interest, then winter is your best bet. Not only does the sun rise later in the colder months, but the lower humidity and sun’s angling provide for cleaner, crisper, and more intensely magical colours.
Where is the best lookout near Broadbeach?
Just a few minutes from the doors of GCCEC, Kurrawa Beach offers sweeping views and quick access to local cafes for the perfect pre-conference morning stroll.
Interested in a destination that goes further than the Centre? Chat to our team to find out more.
Going Beyond on the Gold Coast – Steadfast Convention 2026
Going Beyond on the Gold Coast – Steadfast Convention
22 – 24 March 2025
Australia’s insurance industry converges once a year – and in 2026, the Gold Coast was the place. Steadfast Convention brought together the industry’s leading voices for a multi-day event that went beyond the agenda, sparking the connections and conversations that move the industry forward.
Hosted at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, the program wove together plenary sessions, breakout content, marketplace networking and a Greek Island Escape-themed gala dinner into one high impact experience.
With a clear vision to elevate every aspect of the event, the Steadfast event management team embraced a collaborative planning process, working closely with GCCEC to explore new ideas and deliver an experience that exceeded expectations. That collaborative approach set the tone from day one, carrying through every stage of planning and delivery.
PARTNERS IN A VISION
Christine McGregor, Events and Sponsorship Manager at Steadfast Group, says working with a team that can find solutions made a real difference from the very beginning.
“The major factor is working with a team that can do. Every time we had conversations with the convention centre, they were amazing in being a partner with us, in helping us to find solutions.”
That partnership played a central role in the event’s success. With multiple moving parts, varied audience experiences and significant production requirements, everything needed to align under one clear vision.
The approach also made a difference when it came to balancing ideas with investment, as McGregor explains:
“Together we worked on a vision and found solutions to make it happen, while still delivering value for money… so everything was well thought out, and we were able to achieve the best we could for our convention.”
“Working side by side made it easier to explore ideas while still keeping value in focus.”
A balance of responsiveness, commercial understanding and creative problem solving created a planning environment built on confidence.
Belinda Crofts, Senior Event Manager at GCCEC, says every event starts with a clear understanding of the client’s goals.
“With any event, it’s about working with the client to understand what outcomes they’re trying to achieve, to understand their goals and expectations and to deliver the best event experience possible.”
That client first mindset shaped every decision, from room use and delegate flow through to production, catering and logistics.
ONE VENUE, MANY EXPERIENCES
A defining feature of this event was the way multiple experiences were brought effortlessly together within one connected footprint.
The format called for spaces that could support plenary content, exhibition and sponsor engagement, networking and an immersive gala dinner, all while maintaining a strong sense of flow for delegates. GCCEC’s flexible layout made that possible.
“GCCEC is a blank canvas, our spaces are very flexible and can be utilised for many different purposes,” says Crofts.
The Centre’s flexible spaces made it possible to deliver multiple experiences within one connected footprint. The arena hosted plenary sessions, exhibition areas supported Steadfast’s signature marketplace, shared spaces became networking zones, and the halls transformed for the gala dinner.
The marketplace became more than a functional exhibition area. It was an active part of the event atmosphere, helping to maintain energy throughout the program and encouraging conversation across the convention.
EVENT DESIGN
At the centre of the event was a clear focus on the delegate experience.
Every element, from program flow to room design, contributed to an atmosphere that encouraged learning, connection and energy. The result was an experience that felt not only well organised, but genuinely enjoyable to be part of.
That was reflected in delegate feedback:
“The highlight is definitely the camaraderie between participants, the buzz in the room, people coming together and exchanging ideas. It’s really positive.”
The benefit of having key elements brought together in one location also stood out:
“It’s great having everything in one place, with the plenary and marketplace all together. It’s modern, it’s clean and it suits our purposes.”
This kind of feedback reflects the impact of thoughtful event design. When the environment feels open, movement is intuitive and the space supports interaction, delegates engage more fully with the experience.
TECHNOLOGY THAT ELEVATED THE EXPERIENCE
The venue’s technical capability played a major role in shaping the overall impact of the event, both as a creative and immersive element of the experience.
That strength was particularly evident in the gala dinner, which was designed to deliver more than a traditional end-of-conference celebration. It was an immersive experience, with complex production, lighting, staging and entertainment all working together to create a stronger sense of atmosphere and occasion.
For Chris Davey, Executive Manager of Technology at GCCEC, that result came down to understanding not just the event brief, but the story the client wanted to tell.
“It’s not always about how theming can complement a gala dinner. It’s how our technology can complement the theming. We look at how lighting can bring the set to life and bring the whole experience together.”
This approach reflects GCCEC’s broader in-house capability, where venue knowledge and technical expertise come together to shape the event. Lighting, AV and staging are not just supporting elements, they are part of how the experience is delivered.
FLEXIBILITY THAT FUELS CREATIVITY
A major advantage is the team’s ability to create around a vision, rather than forcing the brief into a fixed format.
This flexibility gives the team greater freedom to think creatively about how a space is configured and how a concept is brought to life, as Davey explains:
“What sets us apart is our flexible event spaces. Nearly none of our equipment is installed in the roof. So that gives us the ability to shape the room in just about any configuration the client wants.”
This approach allows the team to build from the ground up and respond to each event as a unique opportunity rather than a standard format.
“We really enjoy working with our clients here to bring their events to life. There is no concept that’s out of the realm for us.”
For clients, it means ideas can be explored with confidence. For delegates, it creates a more immersive and engaging experience. And ultimately, it means the space can be shaped around the brief, not the other way around.
DELIVERED THROUGH EXPERTISE
Perhaps the strongest theme to emerge was the quality of the team behind the event.
Across GCCEC, that expertise showed in a team that was reliable, solutions focused and aligned around one shared vision.
That consistency showed throughout delivery, with Steadfast recognising a team that was reliable, solutions focused and working toward one shared vision. With everyone aligned and contributing to the same outcome, the team’s expertise and approach helped ensure a seamless delivery from start to finish.
That sense of alignment is supported by a disciplined planning process and strong communication across client, suppliers and internal teams, as Crofts puts it:
“Communication is key for any event here at the Centre.”
This is what holds the event together.
A LASTING IMPRESSION
Steadfast Convention 2026 shows what’s possible when strong event design is backed by venue flexibility and in house expertise.
From planning through to delivery, GCCEC provided the expertise, creativity and support needed to shape an event that felt polished, immersive and highly connected. Every element, from the plenary experience to the gala dinner, contributed to a convention that delivered for both the client and delegates.
The result speaks for itself, as Steadfast puts it:
“Our experience has been absolutely phenomenal. It’s been amazing to work with people that have expertise in their field, everyone giving the best that they can has been absolutely phenomenal. Love working with this team and can’t wait to do it all again soon.”
It’s the kind of outcome every client looks for, and the kind of partnership GCCEC is proud to deliver.
Best Gold Coast Hinterland Walking Trails
If you’re a fan of nature with a business trip booked to the Gold Coast, you’re in luck. Broadbeach is perfectly positioned between the Gold Coast’s world-renowned beaches and the lush landscapes of the Hinterland, making it easy to experience both during your stay.
Whether you’re extending a business trip by a day, fitting in some downtime between conference sessions, or simply looking to swap skyscrapers for ancient rainforests and cascading waterfalls, there are countless opportunities to explore beyond the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
From easy scenic strolls to rewarding waterfall circuits, these five Hinterland walks are all within easy reach of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (okay, maybe a little further!) and offer a truly magical way to experience another side of the Gold Coast.
What are the best Hinterland Walking Trails near the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre?
Twin Falls Circuit
Shining bright as the first pick on the list is Twin Falls Circuit in Springbrook National Park. Located around 50 minutes inland by car, this 4km circuit begins at either the Tallanbana picnic area or Canyon Lookout and forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.
Give yourself roughly two hours to finish the walk, allowing plenty of time to stop and soak in the scenery along the way. You’ll be rewarded with refreshing waterfall views, lush rainforest and opportunities to spot native wildlife. Be sure to keep an eye out for the distinctive pink bark of the brush box trees that line the trail. Some trees in the area have been radiocarbon dated at around 1,500 years old, making them the oldest ever carbon dated trees found on mainland Australia. Now that’ll be a fun fact to share with the coworkers!
Tip: To get the steep stair-climb out of the way first, start at the Tallanbana picnic area.
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 170m
Great for: The all-round experience
Travel time from GCCEC: Approximately 45 to 50 minutes
Purling Brook Falls Circuit
Sparkling waterfalls and breathtaking scenery aren’t far from your keynote with a visit to Purling Brook Falls. Less than an hour’s drive from the Centre, this 4km circuit takes around two hours to complete. Winding through ancient rainforest, towering eucalypts and dramatic cliff faces, the track eventually leads to the base of the spectacular Purling Brook Falls. Along the way you’ll cross a suspension bridge, encounter unique wildlife and discover plenty of photo opportunities.
While relatively short, the trail includes approximately 265 steps and more than 300m of elevation change, making it best suited to those with a moderate level of fitness. For those keen to extend the adventure, the Warringa Pool detour comes highly recommended, adding around 40 minutes to the walk. As always, check track conditions and park alerts before visiting, particularly after wet weather when surfaces can become slippery.
Tip: Walk the circuit clockwise so you can finish with a gentler climb back to the picnic area.
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 300m
Great for: Waterfall views
Travel time from GCCEC: Approximately 50 minutes
Natural Bridge
For delegates with limited time, Natural Bridge is hard to beat. Located just under an hour from the Centre, it’s one of the Gold Coast Hinterland’s most accessible and unique natural attractions, making it an ideal escape if you only have a couple of hours to spare.
This easy 1km circuit takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and showcases an extraordinary natural rock arch sculpted over thousands of years by the waterfall flowing through the basalt cave below. The surrounding forest is equally impressive, home to colourful riflebirds and ancient hoop pines dating back around 180 million years.
It’s important to note that sections of Cave Creek are a Restricted Access Area to protect both visitors and the environment, so swimming within the cave and creek is prohibited.
Tip: For an extra special experience, book a guided evening tour to see the famous glow worm colony that calls the cave home.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 325m
Great for: Those with limited time
Travel time from GCCEC: Just under one hour
Morans Falls Track
For a deeper rainforest experience or those extending their Gold Coast stay, Morans Falls has well and truly earnt a spot on the itinerary. Located within Lamington National Park approximately 75 to 90 minutes from the Centre, this lush subtropical oasis delivers some of the Hinterland’s most impressive scenery.
This easy and picturesque walk leads to spectacular views over Morans Falls and the surrounding gorge, passing towering booyong trees and impressive strangler figs along the way. Plunging 80m below, Morans Falls changes dramatically with the seasons, transforming from a powerful surge after heavy rain to a gentler flow during drier periods.
Tip: Continue to the second lookout at the end of the track to see layers of ancient volcanic lava flows from one of Australia’s largest shield volcanoes, which erupted around 23 million years ago.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation: 910m
Great for: Nature lovers
Travel time from GCCEC: 75 to 90 minutes
Python Rock Track
Ready to fill your camera roll with ancient escarpments, panoramic views and dramatic Hinterland landscapes? Pencil in Python Rock Track for a pre-conference wander or an afternoon refresh before networking drinks.
Located within Lamington National Park, this rewarding walk offers sweeping views across Castle Crag, Mount Razorback and the surrounding valleys, showcasing millions of years of natural erosion that have shaped the landscape. The park forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area and is renowned for its geological significance and biodiversity.
Along the way, keep an eye out for tree identification signs that reveal fascinating facts about the surrounding flora. If you’re visiting after rain, listen closely for the distinctive ‘popping’ call of the ancient masked mountain frog.
Tip: Visit on a clear morning or late afternoon. The lookout is fully exposed and cloud cover can significantly impact visibility, but on a good day, you’ll be rewarded with some of Lamington National Park’s best panoramic views.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation: 148m
Great for: Photo opportunities
Travel time from GCCEC: Approximately 75 minutes
If unwinding in nature after a fast-paced conference sounds like your cup of tea, adding a Hinterland adventure to your itinerary is a must. While the Gold Coast may be best known for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife, its Hinterland offers an equally memorable experience, and one complete with crisp mountain air, ancient rainforests and moments of genuine tranquillity. So, build a little extra time into your itinerary for your next business event here and discover why the Gold Coast Hinterland is the perfect complement to your conference experience.
FAQ
How far is the Gold Coast Hinterland from GCCEC?
Most popular Hinterland walking trails are located in Springbrook and Lamington National Park, between 45 and 90 minutes from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. This makes them ideal for a half day or full day trip before or after a conference.
What should I pack for a Gold Coast Hinterland walk?
Fill a backpack with plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray, and some light snacks depending on how long you’re planning to walk. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses and a thin jacket are also recommended. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Hinterland, especially after rain!
Can conference delegates visit the Hinterland as a day trip?
Absolutely. Many of the Gold Coast Hinterland’s most iconic attractions can be explored within a few hours, making them easy to incorporate into a business trip or an extended stay in Broadbeach.
Which Gold Coast Hinterland walk has the best waterfall views?
If waterfalls are your priority, Twin Falls Circuit and Purling Brook Falls Circuit are the top picks. Twin Falls offers an immersive rainforest experience, while Purling Brook Falls rewards walkers with a dramatic waterfall at the base of a cliff face.
Interested in a destination that goes further than the Centre? Chat to our team to find out more.