4 The Rotary Club Of Ormeau-Pimpama gives back to the community - In a big way Rotary Club of Ormeau-Pimpama Since its charter in 2019, The Rotary Club of Ormeau-Pimpama has set an ambitious agenda-and delivered remarkable results for the local community. In just a few short years, the club has donated a huge sum of $250,000 in support to the local community. These have included, vehicles, assistance packages, and a wide range of community grants- designed to provide practical help, where it is needed most. Club President Russell Mowles said “raising such a significant amount of money was no small achievement. It requires dedication, teamwork, and a strong commitment from the club’s volunteer members, as well as the invaluable support of sponsors and local businesses.” The achievement reflects the spirit of the area; it is a demonstration of community minded people supporting their community,” said President Mowles also praising the local business owners for their ongoing support to the clubs and initiatives, acknowledging that their generosity played a vital role in making these contributions possible. Mr Mowles encouraged anyone interested in giving back to the community or simply wanting to experience the positive energy of The Rotary Club of OrmeauPimpama, “to come along to one of our meetings and experience the vibe.” The club is also championing the cause for a new PCYC to be built in Pimpama and is working in conjunction with The State Member for Coomera, Michael Crandon and Division One Councillor and Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel to facilitate this much needed asset. The club continues to welcome new members, sponsors and supporters who share a passion for making a tangible difference to our local community. “This is an extraordinary achievement by The Rotary Club of Ormeau- Pimpama. To raise $250,000 in just five years speaks volumes about the commitment, generosity, and drive of the group,” said Cr Hammel. “Behind the quarter of a million dollars are countless volunteer hours, early mornings, late nights, and people giving up their time simply because they care about the community. It is a significant milestone and one the entire community should be proud of. I thank every Rotarian and volunteer who has contributed to this remarkable event – our community is a better place because of you, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside the club to deliver even more for the Northern Gold Coast.” The Rotary Club of OrmeauPimpama meets on the first Tuesday of each month for a business meeting followed by a dinner meeting- generally with a guest speaker, or a fun night on the Third Tuesday of the month. Interested? For more details – contact Mike Mellare on 0432 065 027 or check us out on Facebook. Big Laughs, Big Names: GC Laughs Festival Returns to HOTA in 2026 The Gold Coast’s comedy scene is set to erupt in laughter this March as the much-loved GC Laughs Festival returns to HOTA, Home of the Arts from 13–22 March 2026. Now firmly established as the region’s premier comedy event, the ten-day festival promises a packed program of stand-up, storytelling and side-splitting entertainment featuring some of Australia’s biggest comic talents alongside rising stars and international acts. Billed as the Gold Coast’s largest celebration of comedy, GC Laughs brings together household names and fresh voices for a diverse lineup designed to appeal to all tastes — from observational wit to absurdist humour and everything in between. The festival atmosphere is vibrant and inclusive, turning HOTA’s theatres and venues into a hub of shared laughter and live performance energy. Among the 2026 lineup are acclaimed comedians including Lizzy Hoo, Luke Heggie, Zoë Coombs Marr, Dave Thornton and Dane Simpson, with many more acts rounding out a strong national and international program. The result is an impressive showcase that reflects both the strength of Australia’s comedy scene and the festival’s growing reputation on the touring circuit. Opening night traditionally centres on the GC Laughs Gala — a flagship two-hour showcase featuring a curated selection of the festival’s funniest performers and surprise moments. Often dubbed the biggest night of comedy on the Coast, the gala sets the tone for the days that follow, as audiences spill out across multiple shows and venues eager for more laughs. Beyond the jokes, GC Laughs also highlights the cultural importance of live comedy in the region. Festivals like this create opportunities for audiences to connect, unwind and share collective experiences — something increasingly valuable in a fast-paced, digitally saturated world. They also support the creative economy, drawing visitors to the Gold Coast and reinforcing HOTA’s status as a leading arts precinct. For ten days in March, the Gold Coast will once again echo with applause and laughter, proving that when great comedians and eager audiences come together, the result is nothing short of joyful. For more info www.hota.com.au
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