Gold Coast Community Foundation Sunset Chat

We warmly invite you to join us for the 2026 Gold Coast Community Foundation Sunset Chat, with thanks to the support of Kurrawa Surf Club.

Be inspired as media personality Emily Jade O’Keeffe sits down with Soheil & Anne Abedian and Sonia Stradiotto to explore their philanthropic journeys, what inspires their giving, and the difference philanthropy can make in creating a stronger future for Queensland communities.

From business and community leadership to giving back, our guests bring unique perspectives and experiences to a conversation about purpose, generosity and the power of philanthropy.

We’ll also proudly celebrate the 2026 Gold Coast Community Foundation grant recipients: LIVIN, OzHarvest Gold Coast, Baby Give Back, Surfers Paradise Anglican Crisis Care Inc, Gold Coast Community Fund, StandbyU Foundation and Integra Service Dogs Australia LTD.

Together, these organisations are delivering initiatives that support the wellbeing, safety, inclusion and resilience of Gold Coast communities.

Established by then Major Gary Baildon in 1999 with an initial $10,000, the fund has proudly distributed more than $611,000 in grants to 111 grassroots charities and non-profit organisations across the region. 

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, 8 October 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Kurrawa Surf Club, Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach, QLD
Dress Code: Smart Casual

A complimentary drink will be served on arrival, with a cash bar available for additional drinks throughout the evening. Complimentary canapés will be served throughout the evening.

Tickets are $35, with 100% of your ticket price (excl. booking fees) going to the Gold Coast Community Foundation sub-fund and its work to create lasting community impact across the Gold Coast.

Feeling lucky? Grab a ticket in the For the Love of the Gold Coast raffle for your chance to win an unforgettable Lady Elliot Island experience for two, a Ninja Slushie Professional Frozen Drink Maker, $100 Padre Brewery voucher, or a Tailored Experience at Fitting Room Tailoring. Every ticket helps support community giving across the Gold Coast. Raffle will be drawn at the Sunset Chat! For the love of the Gold Coast - 2026

We look forward to raising a glass, celebrating our grant recipients and hearing from some of the Gold Coast’s inspiring philanthropic leaders.