April action: surf showcase, gems and Wallaroos
From iconic surfing contests, jewellery showcase and even a blockbuster Rugby Test, April is set to deliver an action-packed month of events on the Sunshine Coast. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a powerful mix of sport, community celebrations and activities.
Surfer on a wave
Sparkling events in and out of the water
Community and outdoor events also will take centre stage, with the much-loved Ma & Pa Bendall Memorial Surfing Contest being hosted at Currimundi from 3–5 April.
For those fascinated by precious stones, jewellery and fossils the popular Gemboree will be held at the Nambour Showgrounds from 3–6 April, attracting enthusiasts and families from across the state.
The Sunshine Coast will attract elite athletes from across the state when the Gymnastics Queensland State Clubs, Masters and Special Olympics come to Caloundra Indoor Stadium from 10–13 April.
Surf sports and ocean events will bring energy to the coastline, with the Surfing Queensland Series – Parko’s Junior Pro running from 14–19 April, providing a national platform for the next generation of surfing stars.
That excitement continues with the Mooloolaba Mile Ocean Swim Festival on 19 April, drawing elite and recreational swimmers to one of Queensland’s most iconic ocean courses.
From 18–23 April, Lake Kawana will come alive with the Dragon Boat National Championships, welcoming competitors from across Australia and delivering six days of high-intensity racing.
Another feature on the calendar for adventurers is the Suncoast Outdoor Adventure Expo. It will be held at the Nambour Showgrounds from 17–19 April, celebrating camping, caravanning and outdoor lifestyles.
A gymnast in a pink leotard flying through the air (with the roofing behind) with two judges at the forefront of the photos.
A group of gymnasts in pink costumes, arms linked.
A mass of people waiting on the beach to complete in the Mooloolaba mile swim - wearing bright green and bright pink swim caps
A table of beautiful gem stones - blue, grey and pink in colour
Surfing Qld Parko junior champion behing held up by fellow surf mates, with her surfboard behind her and the ocean behind them all.
A side photo of a number of Dragon boat teammates with paddles (oars) at the ready to dig into the water.
Rugby fans delight
Rugby league and rugby union fans are also in for a treat. The Sunshine Coast Stadium will host the Sunshine Coast Falcons vs Redcliffe clash on 11 April, before welcoming one of the biggest sporting events of the year on 25 April, when the Wallaroos take on New Zealand Black Ferns in a Trans-Tasman showdown on Anzac Day.
Elite athlete development continues behind the scenes, with the Women’s State of Origin Camp running from 24–29 April, reinforcing the Sunshine Coast’s standing as a high-performance training destination.
The month wraps up with the Aussie Futsal School Championships at Caloundra Indoor Stadium from 28–30 April, bringing teams from across the country.
With something happening almost every day, April is shaping up as a standout month on the Sunshine Coast — delivering economic benefits, unforgettable experiences and a packed calendar for locals and visitors to enjoy.
To find out more about these events and more visit events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
On the Horizon for May
Tickets are selling fast for 35 unique events on the Horizon Festival program. Horizon Festival marks its 10th year in 2026, as the Sunshine Coast’s premier celebration of people, place and possibility. From 1–10 May 2026 with 10 days of creativity and unforgettable moments across the region, you can experience joyous sunset performances along the coast to tranquil hinterland settings and music energising our urban streets. Follow on socials @horizonartfest
