Local Events & Activities

Varsity Social Business Forum
May
14

Varsity Social Business Forum

🤝 Varsity Social Business Forum – Connect, Network & Enjoy!

Looking for a fun and relaxed way to meet like-minded business owners, locals, and professionals? Our Varsity Social Business Forums offer just that!

No long speeches, just great conversations, networking, and a fantastic atmosphere.

Catch up with old friends & make new ones
✅ Bring yourself, a friend, or your team
✅ Open to everyone
– businesses, residents, educators, clubs, churches, organisations, retirees, and community members.

🎟️ Exciting Prizes & Giveaways
Enjoy lucky door prizes, business card draw, and raffles – plus drinks and nibbles. Don’t miss out!

📅 Event Details
📆 Date: Wednesday, 14th May 2025
🕓 Time: Registration from 4:00 PM (not AM! 😉)
📍 Location: Hotel CBD Varsity Lakes – Sports Bar, Varsity Lakes, QLD
💰 Cost: $20 per attendee (includes 2 drinks, nibbles, and entry into prize draws!)


🎉 Brought to you by: Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL)
🚀 Event Major Sponsor: [TBA]

🔗 Book Now & Spread the Word!

https://events.humanitix.com/varsity-social-business-forum-may-14th-2025


📞 Contact:

Nic Rone: General Manager – VLCL & Sports House
📱 0413 525 787
✉️ gm@sportshouse.com.au
W sportshouse.com.au 

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VLCL Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day - May 2025
May
23

VLCL Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day - May 2025

THE ROBINA VARSITY CORPORATE GOLF DAY

Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL) and Sports House @ Varsity Lakes proudly present the inaugural Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day.

Join us for an exciting day celebrating our vibrant community and local businesses.

Date: Friday, May 23rd, 2025

Time: 9am registration | 10am shotgun start

Location: Robina Woods Golf Course – Palmer Gold Coast

Event Highlights:

Format: Ambrose event, welcoming golfers of all skill levels

Affordable: Low-cost team and hole sponsorship to ensure accessibility - TEAM $600

Networking: Connect with colleagues and friends from across the Gold Coast

Sponsorship and Marketing Opportunities:

Promote your business while supporting the community:

- Raffle Prize Donation

- Gift Bag Item Contribution

- Hole Sponsorship: Limited spots available at just $300 per hole (Act fast to secure your spot)

Contact Details:

Contact Information: Nic Rone

General Manager, Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL) & Sports House @ Varsity Lakes

Email: gm@sportshouse.com.au

Phone: 0413 525 787

We eagerly anticipate your participation in this premier event. Gather your staff, teams, and businesses for a memorable day of golf, fun, and community bonding!


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VLCL Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day - October 10th 2025
Oct
10

VLCL Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day - October 10th 2025

THE ROBINA VARSITY CORPORATE GOLF DAY

Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL) and Sports House @ Varsity Lakes proudly present the inaugural Robina Varsity Corporate Golf Day.

Join us for an exciting day celebrating our vibrant community and local businesses.

Date: Friday, Oct 10th, 2025

Time: 9am registration | 10am shotgun start

Location: Robina Woods Golf Course – Palmer Gold Coast

Event Highlights:

Format: Ambrose event, welcoming golfers of all skill levels

Affordable: Low-cost team and hole sponsorship to ensure accessibility - TEAM $600

Networking: Connect with colleagues and friends from across the Gold Coast

Sponsorship and Marketing Opportunities:

Promote your business while supporting the community:

- Raffle Prize Donation

- Gift Bag Item Contribution

- Hole Sponsorship: Limited spots available at just $300 per hole (Act fast to secure your spot)

Contact Details:

Contact Information: Nic Rone

General Manager, Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL) & Sports House @ Varsity Lakes

Email: gm@sportshouse.com.au

Phone: 0413 525 787

We eagerly anticipate your participation in this premier event. Gather your staff, teams, and businesses for a memorable day of golf, fun, and community bonding!


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VLCL & Bond University Business Breakfast
Mar
27

VLCL & Bond University Business Breakfast

Bond University & VLCL Industry Breakfast:

Expert Insights into Psychosocial Risks

Just How Exposed Are You?

Topic:

Recent updates to Workplace Health and Safety regulations across most Australian states now include psychosocial risks—defined as risks to the health or safety of a worker arising from psychosocial hazards.

Organisational leaders are now responsible for identifying and managing these risks effectively. This responsibility necessitates a thorough understanding of:

The key psychosocial hazards in the workplace.

  • The impacts of stress caused by these hazards on individuals.

  • Recognising the signs of workplace stress.

  • Implementing appropriate interventions for affected employees.

 

Join us for this exclusive industry breakfast event, where Professor Alan Patching from Bond University will share his unrivalled expertise on this critical topic.

 

About the Presenter:

Professor Alan Patching brings over 40 years of experience managing projects exceeding $20 billion in value, including serving as Project Director and CEO for the design and construction of the Sydney Olympic Stadium. A seasoned expert in risk management, he combines his practical knowledge with advanced academic credentials—a master’s degree, a PhD, and extensive clinical experience in psychology and human behaviour. With over two decades of teaching experience in risk management and psychology-related subjects, Professor Patching is uniquely qualified to guide you through the complexities of managing psychosocial risks in the workplace.

 

Event Details:

        Date/Time: Thursday 13 March 2025, Registration starts at 6:45am

         Location: Princeton Room, Bond University, Robina, Queensland

       Cost: $25 per attendee

 

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights into navigating the new psychosocial risk regulations and creating a safer, more resilient workplace.

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Disability Awareness Workshop
Mar
12

Disability Awareness Workshop

EVENT: DISABILITY AWARENESS WORKSHOP


Wednesday 12th March - Sports House at Varsity Lakes

This workshop is for anyone in the sport/fitness or recreation industry who works with people with disability.

Please join us in attending a free, interactive Disability Awareness Workshop where Carers Queensland will provide an opportunity to build confidence in creating welcoming spaces for people with disability to get involved. Workshop participants will explore perceptions of disability and be introduced to a simple framework to support inclusion across a variety of activities and environments.

Registration opens 9.30am

10am -1pm workshop

Where: Sports House 337 Christine Ave Varsity Lakes

Light refreshments provided

Limited spaces available so please secure your ticket ASAP - We expect this workshop to reach capacity quickly!

Register your attendance here: https://events.humanitix.com/disability-awareness-workshop-2025

#AIP #activeandhealthyalliance #inclusivegoldcoast #activeInclusionprogram #disability #disabilityawareness #disabled #inclusion #accessibility #invisibleillness #disabilityadvocate #disabilityrights #disabilityinclusion #disabilities #abilitynotdisability #disabilitylife #diversity #awareness #community #ndis #support #activeinclusion #inclusivefitness #adaptivefitness #adaptivesports #inclusivesports #inclusivesport #inclusiverecreation #adaptiverecreation

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Inclusive Futures: Insights into sports classification
Nov
27

Inclusive Futures: Insights into sports classification

Come & Join us!!!

EVENT - Inclusive Futures: Insights into sports classification

We would like to welcome all allied health professionals, sport, fitness, recreation and wellness organisations, and industry professionals to join us at this event.

When: Wednesday 27th November 2024

Time: 7- 9am

Where: Sports House 337 Christine Ave Varsity Lakes

What to expect:
We will be announcing the 2025 Active Inclusion Program recipients
Hear updates about the Active Inclusion Program and its new Allied Health Pathway
Hear from a parent on their journey with classification for their child
Learn about the sports classification process with Emma Beckman
Network with likeminded industry professionals

Light breakfast will be provided.

The Active Inclusion Program and the Allied Health Pathway are a partnership between Gold Coast Recreation & Sport Inc. and Active & Healthy Gold Coast and proudly supported by City of Gold Coast and Queensland Sport and Recreation

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Varsity Community Food Drive
Nov
18
to 22 Dec

Varsity Community Food Drive

  • Dates: The Food Drive will run from Monday, November 18th through Sunday, December 22nd.

  • Hubs: There are six hubs set up around Varsity.

    • Hope Church: 4/175 Varsity Parade

    • Varsity College: For students and their families two hubs will be at Varsity College Junior and Senior Campuses which will serve as drop-off points for the school community.

    • Sports House Varsity Lakes - 337 Christine Ave

    • Hotel CBD: 15/21 Lakes Street

    • Blackboard Cafe: 7/240 Varsity Parade

  • Contacts: Hope Church are the primary contact throughout the drive and can be reached at 5551 0269.

  • Food Drive Bags: Can be collected from, and dropped off at, any of the Food Drive HUBS around Varsity Lakes.

  • Extra Bags: If you need more empty bags for the drive, we can provide them upon request, depending on availability. Please inform us of the initial number of bags needed for your hub, as each bag will include a small instruction sheet.

  • Promotion: We encourage everyone to use their media channels and databases to spread the word about this initiative. Any and all support in promoting the drive will significantly boost its impact.

  • Prize Draw: As part of their commitment to community involvement, Hotel CBD will be giving away three $100 vouchers and six $50 venue vouchers in a prize draw for those who leave their names and contact details inside filled bags.

Below is a suggested list of non-perishable items that we are asking the community to donate:

  • Water (600ml bottles)

  • Canned tuna and meals (soups, spaghetti, etc.)

  • Low-sodium canned vegetables

  • Dry noodles and soup

  • Cans/jars of fruit (no sugar)

  • Rice and pasta

  • Jars of bolognese or chicken sauces

  • Coffee/tea bags

  • Shelf-stable (UHT/long-life) milk

  • Soft drinks, cordial, popper juice packs

  • Zooper Dooper ice blocks

  • Cereals and biscuits

  • Toiletries

  • Any other packaged goods with a long shelf life

Thank you for your support and for helping make a difference in our Community.

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Bond University & VLCL Business Breakfast
Nov
12

Bond University & VLCL Business Breakfast

We would like to invite you along to our final business breakfast for 2024.

Bond University Industry Engagement is again partnering with us -Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL) - to bring you a final breakfast event for the 2024 season.

Our objective is to help you gain key insights into the 2025 strategic initiatives you need to adopt to position your business for enhanced results during 2025 following the upcoming Queensland election.

This is a breakfast you definitely will not want to miss!

It won't be a 'chalk and talk' event. It's a 'give and gain' event - a collaboration of delegates, all contributing to the discussion in an engaging and interesting way that provides important business, strategy and leadership lessons, insights, and benefits for all involved. 

And, as has become a hallmark of these events, it will be fun - very much in line with one delegate's description of our launch event...“an energetic, engaging and insightful morning of thought-provoking information, fun and networking – no better way to start a day!”

In keeping with all of our event this year - and the cost of doing business - this breakfast is heavily subsidised by Bond UNiversity - so we hope you can all join in to close out the year with yet another sell out event.
 
EVENT DETAILS ARE:

Date: Tuesday 12th November 2024

Time: 7 am - 9 am (registration from 6.45am)

Venue:  Bond University, University Club, Level 3, Building 6,

Investment: $25.00

Complimentary Parking is available in PG9 & PG10 carparks

Registrations close Thursday 7th November or until allocations exhausted. 
Our moderator will be Dr. Alan Patching, who is a Professor of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, and of Project Management at Bond University. He is also our Director of Industry Engagement. 

Professor Patching topped a stellar career in senior leadership positions in construction and property with his roles as owners' Project Director for the development of the Sydney Olympic Stadium, and CEO of the owning entity of that, the largest Olympic stadium venue ever constructed. He was also Project Director on the $280m redevelopment of Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. 

Dr. Patching is a respected business negotiator who has held records for property deals that stood as Australian records for many years. Possibly best known for bringing luxury jewellery brand Tiffany & Co.® to Australia, he once conducted training for senior Government officials who were negotiating the Federal Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme renewal with major pharmaceutical companies. A man of many hats, Alan is also an experienced clinical psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. His PhD combined his passions for both property and people, and he has published a double peer-reviewed academic book (2022) titled ‘Attitudes to Psychological Stress Among Construction Professionals’.

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Pan Pacific Masters - Dragon Boats
Nov
7
to 9 Nov

Pan Pacific Masters - Dragon Boats

Pan Pacific Masters - Dragon Boats

Dates & Times

  • Thursday 7 – Saturday 9 November 2024 (7:30am – 5:00pm daily)

Thursday 7 November 2024 – 500m
Friday 8 November 2024 – 200m
Saturday 9 November 2024 – Around the Island (standard boats only) as well as any finals not held Thursday or Friday due to poor weather

Divisions

  • Snr A 40+: Open, Mixed and Women in both small and standard

  • Snr 55+: Open, Mixed and Women in both small and standard

  • All Cancer Survivors: Small boat only

  • Paradragons: Small boat only

  • Around the Island: All Divisions – Standard only
    Boats being used are all standard boats (20s) only

Gold Coast Dragon Boat Club

Calm waters and stunning scenery make Lake Orr one of the finest places to dragon boat race on the Gold Coast. The 80-hectare man-made lake attracts water sport enthusiasts from around the world and is located a stone’s throw away from the bustling Market Square in Varsity Lakes.

Contact

Dragon Boat Enquiries
Janine Lette
Gold Coast Dragons
Email: dragonboat@mastersgames.com.au
Phone:  +61 411 286 868
Web: goldcoastdragons.com.au

Event Enquiries
Pan Pacific Masters Games
Email: info@mastersgames.com.au
Phone:+61 7 5668 9888

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Varsity Paddlers - Varsity Lakes Race 2024
Sept
8

Varsity Paddlers - Varsity Lakes Race 2024

Varsity Lakes Race 2024 coming up - Sunday 8th September
Standard Entries Close: Saturday, 7th September 12pm

Seniors $25.00, Juniors $15.00 (Members Only) Non-Member Fees apply

Late Entries Close: Sunday, 8th September 7am

Seniors $40.00, Juniors $25.00 (Members Only) Non-Member Fees apply

Each paddler must register separately

 CHECK IN & REGOS // 7:30 - 8:20am

BRIEF // 8:30am


15.4 km RACE START // 9:00am (Kayaks & Skis Only from U16)

10.6 km RACE START // 9:05am (All craft from U14)

5.8 km RACE START // 9:10am (All craft and ages)

Regsiter - Link - https://www.webscorer.com/register?pid=1&raceid=362869


Link - https://www.webscorer.com/register?pid=1&raceid=362869

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Battle at Bond: A Live Esports Competition
Sept
7

Battle at Bond: A Live Esports Competition

Battle at Bond: A Live Esports Competition

This specially curated live esports competition promises to be an exhilarating experience for everyone involved.

  • Teams: Comprised of four players

  • Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024

  • Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm*

  • Location: Basil Sellers Theatre, Bond University (click here)

During this event students will showcase their skills and strategic prowess in the thrilling arena of esports. As we witness the teams battle it out , we invite you to join us to cheer for these talented individuals and celebrate their dedication to esports.

We extend this invitation to parents and supporters, the public, and Bond University students and staff. Your presence will undoubtedly add to the excitement of the competition, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and support.

In addition to the main event, we are delighted to offer additional gaming areas for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or simply looking to immerse yourself in the world of esports, there will be something for everyone to relish.

The event will also provide participants with health and wellbeing practices tailored to high-performing gamers. This initiative aims to enhance gamers' physical and mental wellbeing, recognising their unique challenges and demands. Attendees will have access to expert-led sessions on various topics

Join us for a day filled with adrenaline-pumping action, friendly competition, and unforgettable moments at the Battle at Bond.

WIN A PS5 JUST FOR ATTENDING!** A PS5 prize will be given away at the event. Raffle tickets will be issued upon check in to go into the draw!

*general admission registration desk open until 11am.

**You must be present at the time of the draw. Only registered spectators go into the prize draw. Raffle tickets non transferrable and the console must be taken with you immediately if successful.

Location

Bond University

14 University Drive Basil Sellers Theatre (level 3, building 6) Robina, QLD 4226

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Affordable Housing From Problems to Solutions
Aug
25

Affordable Housing From Problems to Solutions

On Behalf of McPherson Independent

We’re excited to invite you to our next monthly community conversation, and this time, we’re diving into the critical issue of housing.  If you are coming, share it with a friend.

Join us on Sunday, 25th August from 2-5 PM at Sports House Varsity (designed by our very own speaker, Amy Degenhart!) to hear from an incredible panel of experts:

  • Matt Grudnoff from The Australia Institute, bringing insights on national housing policies.

  • Jackson Hills from Q Shelter, with expertise on community housing and support systems.

  • Amy Degenhart, Architect at degenhartSHEDD, innovator in tiny-lot, mixed used and sustainable housing designs.

Join us to learn, discuss, and engage with thought leaders who are shaping the future of housing. Whether you’re passionate about affordable housing, urban development, or just want to be part of the conversation, this event is for you!

Sports House Varsity
Sunday, 25th August
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Registration is required—don’t miss out! Head to www.mcphersonindependent.org/affordable_housing

Looking forward to seeing you there

On Behalf of McPherson Independent

Leah - Volunteer member

https://www.mcphersonindependent.org/

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

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Convoy Collective Networking Event
Aug
7

Convoy Collective Networking Event

WELCOME TO THE GOLD COAST'S FRESHEST ALTERNATIVE TO SAME-SAME NETWORKING EVENTS AND IMPERSONAL BUSINESS GROUPS.'

Join us for a comfortably curated evening with a distinctly different networking flavour, hosted by a private business network built by founders, for founders. You can rely on us as your concierge for quality connections, cool conversations and unique opportunities.

MAKE THE COMPANY YOU KEEP MATTER WITH OUR LATEST COLLECTIVE EVENT!

WHEN? Wednesday 7th August 2024 from 6pm.

WHERE? The Brooklyn Wine + Tapas, Ground Floor, Lot 5/190 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes.

WEAR? Come as you'd like to be perceived.

HOW MUCH? Only $35 + GST*

*Includes a house beverage and complimentary bites.

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TREC FOR REC
July
11

TREC FOR REC

Over 300 attendees will participate in a 5km or 10km TREC around Pizzey Park (Miami) to help raise funds for Gold Coast Sport & Recreation – an organisation providing opportunities for people with a disability to participate in recreation and sport. It’s all about having fun, keeping fit, making new friends, joining a team, experiencing competition and being a part of the local community!

The event also includes ‘come and try’ side activities for attendees and families, some of the major sporting codes and schools in attendance, a BBQ lunch, and a fundraising raffle with some epic prizes!

To ENTER please visit https://www.trybooking.com/CRWWW

For more info on how you can support TREC FOR REC, please email events@gcrs.com.au


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Active & Healthy Inflatable & Skill Session - FREE
July
4

Active & Healthy Inflatable & Skill Session - FREE

Inflatable ninja challenge skill session

DATE: THURSDAY, 04 JULY 2024 | 09:30 AM TO 11:30 AM
Varsity Central Park

Tickets

www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Things-to-do/Active-Healthy-program/Active-Healthy-calendar

Like a challenge? See how fast you can jump, climb, and slide through this huge inflatable course and explore a variety of ball sports in a fun environment.

15 meter ninja warrior inflatable obstacle Experience the thrill of dash, leap, slide, and navigate your way through the exhilarating 15-meter Ninja Warrior Inflatable Obstacle. This dynamic adventure not only guarantees a blast of fun but also offers children the chance to enhance balance, agility, and speed, all while channelling the spirit of a true ninja!

Skill sessionDuring this skill-packed session, children will explore an array of essential techniques vital for various ball sports. From throwing and passing to kicking, speed, agility, ball control, and beyond. These activities aim to promote not only coordination, agility, and strength but also endurance and sportsmanship.

This is a free event.

1st Fives Rugby M: 0405 828 273 E: info@1stfivesrugby.com.au

Did you know there is a great array of free and low cost experiences offer through the City of Gold Coast Active & Healthy holiday program.

Download the Active & Healthy Holiday program

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