A JAMAICAN, A BRIT AND A KIWI GO INTO A BAR ...
There’s no party better than one that brings together some of the world’s best sporting types and their fans – and Gold Coast venues are getting in on the action by joining up with national teams
THE Gold Coast is famed for its nightlife and ATG has the hotspots where you can party with teams and supporters from competing Commonwealth Games nations.
Plenty of countries have joined forces with Glitter Strip bars – but you’ll only see athletes after their event has finished. Probably. (Except maybe for some basketballers, and a large percentage of the lawn bowlers).
Outside of television coverage, the venues they’ve nominated as their chief place to blow off steam are the most likely hubs for star spotting.
The Australians have pride of place at The Star in Broadbeach (look out for their schedule) while the New Zealanders have gone all swanky on it too and teamed with QT Gold Coast’s hip Stingray Bar.
Stingray manager Jared Thibault reveals the Kiwis will feel right at home with a rocking home-grown music line-up most nights. It was kicked off with an opening ceremony after-party last night by Kiwi Danny Faifai from the famed Koi Boys.
Stingray has a later last drinks time of 1am too, as per the State Government’s temporary Gamesrelated relaxation of every venue’s licence by an hour.
House of Brews co-owner Sacha Kanaghines said he sealed the deal with Team Canada to be their base over a few bourbons waaaay back when an earlier scouting party hit town. The Surfers Paradise craft beer bar, known for elaborate cocktails and a hearty barbecue-inspired menu, has gone all out as expected.
A cocktail that appears to resemble the Canadian flag contains strawberry daiquiri and pina colada. It is served on a medal podium with one hanging off it.
The venue is planning special events for Team Canada on Sunday night and next Wednesday, so look out for those. It also has extended trading until 3am from April 12-16.
Sprint star Usain Bolt was infamous for giving the Jamaicans a reputation for enjoying a good time out socially but is rumoured not to be arriving on the Gold Coast until later in the Games. It might be a good thing for the teammates who are competing.
Word from an ATG source close to Team Jamaica is they’ll have Helm bar on the Surfers Paradise riverfront rocking. It will be known as Jamaica Commonwealth Manor during the Games. The team has already had a local fixer scouting ska bands for the venue, which will feature live music and Jamaican-styled food and drinks.
The Kiwis will feel right at home with a rocking line-up