Key Takeaways:
- The Schoolies event on the Gold Coast attracts around 15,000 school leavers each year.
- The event has a formal hub setup by the Queensland government to manage safety response and provide assistance to the attendees.
- Despite the large number of attendees, the number of incidents and arrests has decreased over the years, attributed to a "changing culture" of the attendees looking out for each other.
- The event features a range of activities, including music performances, dance parties, and costume themes.
- There are concerns about the pornification of the event, with some businesses and individuals promoting explicit content and products to the attendees.
Introduction to Schoolies
The Schoolies event on the Gold Coast is a week-long celebration for school leavers, attracting around 15,000 attendees each year. The event features a range of activities, including music performances, dance parties, and costume themes. This year’s event has seen a large turnout, with many attendees dressed in creative costumes, including a person dressed as The Lorax and another as a Christmas tree.
The Atmosphere of the Event
The atmosphere of the event is lively and energetic, with a DJ playing a club mix of popular songs, including Reel 2 Real’s I Like to Move It. The attendees are enthusiastic and excited, with many dancing and singing along to the music. The event also features a range of food stalls and shops, offering a variety of food and drink options, including halal snack packs and sugary alcohol. Despite the large number of attendees, the event is generally well-managed, with a formal hub setup by the Queensland government to provide assistance and support to the attendees.
Safety and Incidents
The safety of the attendees is a top priority, with the Queensland government and emergency services working together to provide a safe and supportive environment. According to Acting District Director of the Queensland Ambulance Service, Justin Payne, the number of incidents and arrests has decreased over the years, with only 18 attendees requiring hospitalization and 20 arrests made during the week. This is attributed to a "changing culture" of the attendees, with many looking out for each other and taking steps to stay safe.
The Daily Routine of Attendees
For many attendees, the daily routine during Schoolies involves sleeping in late, followed by a low-key day of relaxing and socializing. Many attendees spend the day lounging by the pool, watching TV, or exploring the local area. As the night approaches, the attendees get ready to go out and party, with many heading to clubs and bars to dance and socialize. The event features a range of activities and entertainment, including music performances, dance parties, and costume themes.
Concerns About the Event
Despite the overall positive atmosphere of the event, there are concerns about the pornification of Schoolies, with some businesses and individuals promoting explicit content and products to the attendees. This includes adult entertainment stores and viral sex workers, who are using the event as an opportunity to promote their products and services. Some attendees have expressed concerns about the objectification and exploitation of women, and the potential for the event to glorify and promote unhealthy attitudes towards sex and relationships.
The Impact of the Event
The Schoolies event has a significant impact on the local community, with many businesses and residents affected by the large influx of attendees. The event also has a impact on the attendees themselves, with many forming new friendships and creating lasting memories. For many, the event is a rite of passage, marking the transition from school to adulthood. As one attendee, Mila, said, "When I look back on this, I’ll have Fomo [of future years]. I already want to come back."
Conclusion
The Schoolies event on the Gold Coast is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, reflecting both the positive and negative aspects of youth culture. While the event is generally well-managed and safe, there are concerns about the objectification and exploitation of women, and the potential for the event to glorify and promote unhealthy attitudes towards sex and relationships. Despite these concerns, the event remains a popular and significant part of Australian youth culture, providing a unique and memorable experience for the attendees.
