24 July 2025
FAREWELL TO JENNINE TAX, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Experience Gold Coast is bidding farewell to Jennine Tax, Executive Director of Education. Over the past six years, Jennine has played an important role across both Study Gold Coast and Experience Gold Coast, leading the education sector with purpose and dedication. Her contribution was formally recognised in 2021 when she was named Gold Coast Woman of the Year – Education Sector.
Over the past eighteen months, Jennine has supported Experience Gold Coast through a rapidly shifting policy environment in the education sector, helping to strengthen collaboration and advocate for the Gold Coast’s interests. Her efforts have contributed to building strong relationships with our educational partners and positioning the city as a respected learning destination.
We’ll certainly miss working with Jennine in this capacity and thank her for all her remarkable contributions to EGC and the broader community. We wish her all the best on her next adventure.
GOLD COAST MAYOR'S TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION AWARDS NOW OPEN!
Experience Gold Coast, in partnership with the City of Gold Coast, Cohort Innovation Space, and Bond University, is proud to announce that the Mayor’s Technology and Innovation Awards are now open for entries.
We’re calling on Gold Coast teachers to help us uncover the next generation of innovators! Open to students in Years 8–12, this exciting program encourages young minds to team up, think big, and create tech solutions that tackle real-life community challenges. Areas of focus could include sustainability, smart living, and improving everyday life on the Gold Coast.
Students will work in teams of 2-3 to solve problems, connect with industry mentors, and pitch their ideas to expert judges.
Why get involved?
• Develops teamwork, design thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Connects students with industry mentors
• Provides a platform to pitch to industry experts
• Fantastic prizes, including $5,000 for the winning school and $1,000 gift cards for each team member
Entries close Friday, 1 August.
SAVE THE DATE: STUDENT JOBS RECRUITMENT EVENT
The Student Jobs Recruitment Event is back for its fourth year—and it’s shaping up to be bigger than ever!
Held on Tuesday, 16 September, this free event connects students with local employers offering seasonal, part-time, and casual job opportunities across hospitality, tourism, and more.
Students will have the chance to engage in one-on-one speed interviews, gaining direct access to hiring managers and real job openings. It’s the perfect opportunity to build confidence, sharpen interview skills, and secure meaningful employment.
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• Students – Save the date and get ready to meet employers face-to-face!
• Employers – Have vacancies to fill? Register your interest now – spots fill fast
Let’s work together to support international and domestic students in building their future on the Gold Coast.
GOLD COAST NEW STUDENT GRANTS FULLY ALLOCATED
We’re excited to announce the successful completion of the Gold Coast New Student Grants Campaign, with all 250 of the $1,000 grants now fully allocated to new international students.
Beyond financial support, this initiative reinforced the Gold Coast’s reputation as a welcoming and supportive city for international students, even during uncertain times.
The campaign attracted applications from students representing 49 countries, including Canada, China, South Korea, the US, and India. Students from diverse fields – Health, Business, English, and Engineering – were among those supported.
One inspiring recipient, Michael from Kenya, is set to begin a double Masters in Civil Engineering and Project Management at Griffith University. Inspired by the Gold Coast’s leadership in sustainability, Michael hopes to return home to help tackle Mombasa’s urban challenges.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to this success. Together, we continue to show the world the Gold Coast is a place where students truly thrive.
JULY WRAPPED: THE HUB'S CAMPUS TAKEOVER
It’s been a big month for the Gold Coast Student Hub Team!
Throughout July, our team has been out and about across several university events, meeting new students, sharing everything the Hub has to offer, and handing out some exciting prizes along the way. We had the pleasure of connecting with over 900 students at Southern Cross University Term 3 Orientation, Griffith Discovery Day, Griffith New to the Gold Coast Welcome Event, Griffith Wellfest, and Bond University Wellness Week.
It’s always such a joy to meet students face-to-face, answer questions, and introduce the Hub as a safe, welcoming and vibrant space for all students on the Gold Coast. If we met you at one of these events, welcome! We can’t wait to see you at the Hub soon. And if you haven’t stopped by yet, check out our ‘What’s On’ calendar on the Gold Coast Student Hub page to stay in the loop with upcoming events, programs and opportunities.
KICKING OFF TERM 3 WITH VR AND NEW FACES
The Career Outreach team has hit the ground runnng for Term 3, welcoming a new team member—and Mayor’s Student Ambassador—Lizzeth, who will be joining us on school visits in the coming weeks.
In preparation, Lizzeth recently led a hands-on training session for our office team showcasing the immersive technology transforming the way the next generation envision their futures. Our popular VR headsets continue to be a huge hit with students, sparking curiosity and conversation about future careers.
Want to bring this engaging experience to your school?
SAVE THE DATE: ROBINA ALLIANCE BUSINESS BREAKFAST
Mark your calendar for Friday, October 10, and join us for the final Robina Alliance Business Breakfast of the year. For just $45, enjoy a morning of insights and inspiration with a stellar lineup of guest speakers including Paralympic gold medallist Matthew Levy, organisational expert Dr. Liz Crowe, and workplace design authority Associate Professor Libby Sander. Don't miss this opportunity to explore how organisational culture influences health and wellbeing in the workplace.
VIEW THE 10 JULY 2025 EDUCATION UPDATE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.