The Weekend Edition - Sleep In. Slow Down. Enjoy.

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Laneways, laughs and local gems – spend a long weekend in Caloundra for the hilarious That’s Not My Dog! festival

With June upon us and the middle of the year nigh, many of us will be craving a little escape. While an extended holiday may not be possible until Christmas, a long weekend here and there is definitely on the cards. That's Not My Dog! comedy festival is serving you with the perfect excuse to apply for some leave – or chuck a sneaky sickie – and head up north to enjoy three days of laughs, good food and plenty of sunshine in Caloundra. While we're sure you don't need any convincing, we've gone to the trouble of curating the perfect long weekend itinerary so that you can soak up the sun, sample the local brews and bites, take in the scenery and enjoy some classic Aussie comedy.


Just over an hour and a half from Brisbane, Caloundra is an understated gem in the Sunshine Coast’s glittery crown. This beachside haven is the perfect place to escape winter, home to pristine waterways, ocean pools, rolling surf and streets abuzz with cafes and boutique stores. That’s Not My Dog! festival offers three days of Australian comedy gold set in Kings Beach Caloundra from August 26–28. The quick-witted line-up of funny folks includes Shane Jacobson, Peter Helliar, Fiona O’Loughlin, Dave O’Neill, Lehmo and Marty Fields, just to name a few. Consider yourself somewhat of a loveable larrikin? As part of the festival, you can attend comedy workshops and participate in the storytelling and amateur open mic competition! While you lavish in the laughs, you can also tuck in to some local bites and sip on craft beers and wines from the area.

Caloundra has plenty of activities to keep you and the family occupied when you’re not tickling your funny bone. Keen to get out on the water? Jump on a jet ski up the Pumicestone Passage, or hire a boat for a leisurely day spent cruising and exploring the pristine beaches of Caloundra and North Bribie Island. Alternatively, head into town and explore the Caloundra Street Art Trail and Regional Gallery. As you pound the pavement searching for the myriad of murals that adorn local streetscape and laneways, you’ll quickly realise that Caloundra is giving Melbourne a run for its money. Another must-do activity during your Sunshine Coast stay is a spice-blending class at Red Hot Chilli Pepper. Here, you can learn about the herbs and spices that go into your favourite cuisines before devouring the spoils of your cooking efforts.

Speaking of food, the good folks of Caloundra do not shy away from a delicious meal out and about. If you judge every destination based on the quality of its brunches, then prepare to be wowed by the food at One Block Back and White Picket Fence. The respective menus are bursting with colour and flavour, serving up breakfast classics and beach-inspired brunch with a twist. If you’re after something a little more refined for lunch or dinner, we recommend reserving a table at Tides Waterfront, where you can enjoy 180-degree views of the Pumicestone Passage and Glass House Mountains while savouring dishes from the seasonal, award-winning menu. No visit to Caloundra is complete without a tasting paddle or two from one of the many breweries and distilleries, including Brouhaha BreweryBeachtree Distilling Co and Moffat Beach Brewing Co.

With an itinerary packed full of nourishing nosh, sun-drenched activities and plenty of belly laughs, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest and rejuvenate. If you prefer self-contained apartment accommodation on the beach, look no further than Rumba Beach Resort with its one-, two- and three-bedroom offerings. Bringing the kids? Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort offers apartment and villa-style rooms and an epic waterpark for the little grommets to run wild. Finally, if you’re seeking tranquillity by the sea that overlooks white sands and emerald waters, ULTIQA Shearwater Resort is ready to welcome you into the heart of Kings Beach.

So, what are you waiting for? Tickets to That’s Not My Dog! are on sale now. While you’re at it, secure some accommodation and lock in that extra day of leave with your boss. We promise Caloundra will make it worth your while. 

This article was written in partnership with our friends at Visit Sunshine Coast.

To find out more about what’s on in the Gold Coast, head to our Event Guide.



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