Sapphic & Seen: A New Space for Queer Joy

Gold Coast’s lesbian community is stepping into the spotlight with Sapphic Socials—a fresh, fun, and fearless gathering space turning visibility and safety into the new norm. Learn how this grassroots movement is changing the game and making the Goldy a lot more gay.

Finding queer community can be tough—especially when you’re a lesbian living outside the major cities. For one Gold Coast local, that challenge sparked a movement. After moving from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, where queer spaces were few and far between, she noticed a gap: where were the lesbians? Inspired by run clubs and community groups popping up in Sydney and Brisbane, she set out to build something even bigger—a social network where connection came first. Sapphic Socials was born from that desire to create something we were never really given: a space to fully be ourselves. With no exclusivity, no hierarchy—just warm, safe, authentic energy—it’s quickly becoming a hub for lesbians and sapphic folks to find comfort, visibility, and joy on the Glitter Strip.

What inspired you to start Sapphic Socials?

Being a lesbian on Sydney’s Northern Beaches was lonely—even after coming out, I was mostly surrounded by straight people. When I decided to move to the Gold Coast, one of my goals was to make more gay friends, but I knew there weren’t many spaces for lesbians there either. I saw lesbian run clubs popping up in Sydney and Brisbane, and it inspired me to create something similar—but broader. Not just fitness, but a whole social community where lesbians on the Gold Coast could connect, feel seen, and make our own space together.

What does reclaiming space look like in night life or social settings?

Creating something we were never really given—a place to fully be ourselves. For Sapphic Socials, it’s about turning spaces that have historically centred men, straightness, or exclusivity into places that feel warm, connected, and safe for lesbians and sapphic people of all kinds. We don’t just want to feel safe—we want to feel seen. And Sapphic Socials exists to make that the norm, not the exception.

Can you describe the vibe you hope people get at a SS gathering? 

At a Sapphic Socials gathering, I hope people feel comfort, freedom, and genuine entertainment—no exclusivity, no hierarchies, just authentic, safe energy where we can truly be ourselves. It’s about creating that space where we can finally do all those things we often think, “I wish I had a group of people to do that with,” together.

What’s your advice for someone still finding their tribe? 

Sometimes you’ve got to take matters into your own hands—whether that’s moving somewhere new, joining a team or club, or signing up for a workshop or course. When you follow what lights you up, you start to find your people and your place. Nothing changes if nothing changes, so you’ve got to create the life you want. For me, finding lesbian community on the Gold Coast was a huge priority, and I worried I wouldn’t find one—so I made a space where we could come together. But it doesn’t always have to be so bold. Sometimes it’s the small, subtle steps that lead you to your tribe!

Any quotes from you or attendees? 

“Let’s go, lesbians!” was our siren sound.

Just shouting “Lesbians!” became a constant, freeing reminder that we’re all gay as f*ck—and proud of it.

What’s a takeaway after your first gathering? 

That the lesbians on the Gold Coast—especially those under 35—do exist! They’re not hiding; they’re just waiting for the right space to connect. The energy in the room was proof that we’re ready for community, connection, and joy. I have no doubt this community will flourish—because when lesbians come together, there’s power, magic, and momentum.

How can people support Sapphic Socials? 

Basically, I was lovingly peer-pressured by the sapphics of the Gold Coast to launch early—and that’s exactly how you can support Sapphic Socials: the same way it all began. By engaging. Sharing. Hyping it up. Showing up.
And most of all, being a villager. This is a community built by all of us, for all of us.

Tag us. Talk about us. Invite your friends.
Be part of it. 🌈

By @Cadydeville