Photo courtesy of Pixabay

Join us for the premier self storage event of the year! This year we’re taking the SSAA Convention to the beautiful Sheraton Grand Mirage on the Gold Coast.

In an exciting three-day format from 9–11 November, we’ll launch the State of the Industry 2022, the SSAA Awards and our 30th(ish) Anniversary Celebrations – all while surrounded by sun-drenched beaches, heritage-listed rainforests, theme parks, shopping and nightlife. 

To help you plan your visit, here’s a list of things to do during your stay at the Gold Coast.  

Take in the stunning sunset views from above….

With 360-degree views, a visit to the Skydeck Observation Deck is a must if you’re visiting the Coast with the Most. Located 203m above sea level inside the iconic Q1 building – Australia’s Tallest Building, to be exact – the panoramic views of the city skyline and golden beaches are breathtaking.

If you’re feeling brave, you can strap in and join a guided climb around the building – but our recommendation would be the Dine & Deck option ($42 per person), where you can grab a drink, enjoy a meal, watch the sunset and relax whilst taking in the view.

Journey to the Australian Outback

Australian Outback Spectacular https://outbackspectacular.com.au/

Whether you’re a local or a foreigner, you’ll enjoy this dining experience that takes you right into the heart of the Australian bush. Located 20 minutes north of Surfers Paradise, this fun night out includes a hearty three course meal and beverages, all while being entertained by singing, light shows, animals and a cinematic storyline. Bonus: cowboy hats for everyone on arrival!

From the Outback to the Outlet

If you’re looking for a great place to shop, put on your most comfortable shoes and head on over to Harbour Town, Australia’s largest outlet mall. This is an open-air mall lined with palm trees and plenty of fresh air, so it’s a lovely stroll regardless of whether or not you indulge in a bit of retail therapy. There’s a great selection of high end and high street fashion, plus plenty of delicious dining options to boot as well. 

Harbour Town is located about 15 minutes north of Surfers Paradise, and there are free shuttle buses that run regularly from Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise – but if you’re heading back to Brisbane Airport after the Convention, you can always make a pit stop on the way home.

Take a day trip to Mount Tamborine

Photo courtesy of Tourism Queensland

Swap the world-famous beaches for foliage with a day trip to the picturesque Gold Coast Hinterland, just one hour’s drive inland. The lush rainforest of Mount Tamborine is home to a variety of wonderful plant and animal species, as well as the impressive Curtis Falls, iconic gallery streets and some of Queensland’s top wineries.

If you’re not self-driving, tours like this one will pick you up from the hotel and take you on a fully guided tour of the rainforest and tree-top skywalk, including morning tea and wine tasting.

Go on a snorkel safari with turtles

Photo courtesy of Cooly Eco Adventures https://coolyecoadventures.com.au/tour/swim-with-turtles/

Spend the morning getting up close and personal with turtles on this unforgettable underwater adventure! The tour begins with a 20 minute boat ride out to the Cook Island Reserve, where the waters are home to a wide variety of marine life – think Green turtles, wobbegongs, manta rays, colourful fish, coral gardens and more. All the snorkel gear is provided and the guides are experienced, friendly and knowledgeable – plus the tour is limited to 12 people at a time so it is not overcrowded.

This three-hour experience costs $139 per person and departs from Chinderah, which is located on the southern border of the Gold Coast/Tweed Heads region, so you’ll need to get here by car or taxi. 

Tip: Make sure you stop at nearby Cubby’s Bakehouse for a treat on your way back!

Hit up the Miami Marketta

Photo courtesy of Miami Marketta

Street food, live music and boutique bars…this night market will have you feeling like you’ve just traveled to the back streets of Thailand, Barcelona or New York City! Located about 30 minutes south of Main Beach, the Miami Marketta is a great place to spend your Wednesday, Friday or Saturday evening. 

This is another must-do if you’re on the Gold Coast – but it does get pretty busy, so if you want to snag a table we suggest heading there before 7pm.

Indulge in a set menu at the Shores

Photo courtesy of Rick Shores https://www.rickshores.com.au/

While there is no shortage of lofty dining experiences on the GC, Rick Shores will take you on an incredible journey of pan-Asian cuisine. With exceptional beach views and service, it’s easy to see why this is an iconic dining institution.

We recommend the Set Menu at $85 per person (Moreton Bay Bug Rolls! Red Duck Curry!), but you can’t really go wrong with anything from their à la carte menu. Come for the view, stay for the food. Just make sure you book in advance – even if you don’t snag a table by the ocean, the views will be incredible nonetheless.

Unleash your inner child at the Big 4 Theme Parks

The Gold Coast is known as the “theme park capital of Australia”, so we couldn’t do a round-up of things to do without at least mentioning the Big 4. Whether you want to swim with the dolphins at SeaWorld, become a stunt driver for a day at Movieworld, strap in and ride the tallest thrill rides at Dreamworld or chill on a cabana at Wet’n’Wild, there’s no better way to unwind after the Convention than with time well spent at a Gold Coast theme park. Top tip: entry tickets are usually cheaper if you book online. 

Self storage owners and leaders are invited to join us for the annual SSAA Convention on the Gold Coast, Australia from 9-11 November 2022. Unlock the next normal over three days, including the launch of the State of the Industry 2022, the return of the SSAA Awards for Excellence and our 30th(ish) Anniversary Celebrations. Register for Convention here.