Here on the southern Gold Coast and Tweed Coast, we’ve got the best of both worlds. Superb sun-soaked beaches, remnant rainforests, rolling countryside, top-notch tucker and a broad range of creative endeavours – including the famed Margaret Olley Art Centre, at Tweed Regional Gallery.
Located just over the Queensland border in New South Wales, the popular gallery takes pride of place in the Tweed Shire, nestled in the historic country town of Murwillumbah.
Best of all, it’s just a relatively short, scenic drive from Kirra Beach Apartments, which is situated within bird’s eye view of the breakers at world famous Kirra Beach.
The Margaret Olley Art Centre celebrates, in extraordinarily intricate detail, the life of Australia’s most revered painter of still life and interiors. Only completed in the last few years, the spectacular gallery, which also features a rather yummy cafe and restaurant, is practically compulsory viewing for any budding art aficionado.
The centre features an interactive multi-media drawing activity, research library and education workshop, and is complemented by the Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio. But the centre’s main drawcard for many creative types is the much-publicised recreation of Olley’s famous home studio – namely the Hat Factory and the Yellow Room.
The rooms are filled with over 20,000 items Margaret Olley collected over many years – many featuring as subjects in her paintings, and they offer a intimate insight into Olley’s career, and the inspiration driving it.
While you’re at the gallery take a moment to appreciate the many other exhibitions, which update regularly. They’re always well-conceived, and offer yet another reason to pay the charming town of Murwillumbah a visit.
The centre is located at Tweed Regional Gallery, 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah. Check out the gallery online for more information.
While you’re venturing a little south, it’s a wonderful opportunity to check out Mt Warning (Wollumbin)– the centre of the Tweed Valley caldera, which was formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The beautiful rainforest surrounds offer lazy day treks – or if you’re feeling up to it, the rather taxing hike to the summit of the mountain is well worth it for the exceptional views. If you leave early enough, you’ll be among the first in the world to see the sun rise. Something to tick off the bucket list?
Otherwise, a drive along the Tweed Coast is also highly recommended. While the Gold Coast’s beaches have an excellent vibe, Tweed beaches are often located off the beaten track, and present a tempting, quiet escape for curious travellers. One such example is Fingal, as seen below.
Just remember: Beaches without the telltale red and yellow flags are not currently patrolled by surf lifesavers, so extra caution is needed.
While you’re in the region, why not take advantage of the sunny summer weather on the Gold and Tweed Coasts? Both regions boast a huge range of scuba diving, wakeboarding, jetskiing and other waterborne experiences. Combine pristine beaches, top-rated dining and leisure venues and our famous laid-back atmosphere and you won’t find a more appealing holiday hub than Kirra Beach Apartments.
Kirra Beach Apartments is only a short walk from Coolangatta, and close to many popular Gold Coast attractions and events. To find out more about a short stay, or accommodation for your family holiday or business venture, call (07) 5523 7900, or email info@kirrabeachapartments.com.au.
