Event mode FAQs
#Standing Mode
What type of event mode is this?
This event is standing. No chairs, Eskies, cooler bags or picnic blankets are permitted.
Please see below for the complete list of allowed items and prohibited items.
What am I allowed to bring with me into the event?
• Clear, soft plastic water bottles up to 600ml max. Water bottles must be sealed. You may be asked to remove the lids upon entry (depending on the event) for safety reasons.
• Empty, clear, soft plastic water bottles up to 600ml max for filling at our water bubblers. You may be asked to remove the lid, depending on the event.
• Ponchos.
• Small bag (up to A4 paper size).
What is prohibited from this event?
• Chairs.
• Picnic rugs/blankets/pillows.
• BYO alcohol.
• Liquids other than water. Water must be in a sealed, soft, clear 600ml max plastic bottle.
• Food.
• Bags over A4 paper size.
• Glass or metal (including cans and water bottles).
• Umbrellas (even if it is raining).
• Sunshades, tents, and tables.
• Selfie and go-pro sticks.
• Metal cutlery and knives
• Professional cameras, drones and video recording equipment.
• Pets (Registered Service Animals allowed)
• Eskies or cooler bags.
• Prams and strollers.
• Trolleys/Carts.
• Weapons or anything that could be interpreted as a weapon.
• Aerosols.
• Bicycles, skateboards, and scooters.
There will be a security check at the gate. You will have the opportunity to return prohibited items to your vehicle; however, you will be required to join the back of the queue.
Anything illegal will be confiscated.
HOTA does not take responsibility for confiscated items.
What do I need to bring with me?
• Your ticket.
• ID. You will need one of the following IDs on arrival and your person throughout the entire event:
‣ Current valid Australian driver's license (with photo).
‣ Current Passport, Government Issued Proof of Age Card.
‣ Victorian Keypass.
‣ International Driver's License (must contain a photographer)
‣ Photocopies or photos of IDs are not accepted.
• Sensible footwear. The Outdoor Stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
• Come prepared for rain or shine. There are no sheltered areas in the Outdoor Stage. If the forecast is for rain, please wear sensible footwear/gumboots and bring a poncho or raincoat (no umbrellas are allowed in the event area).
Can I bring a chair or something to sit on?
No, you cannot bring chairs or picnic rugs into a Standing Mode event. Prams are also not permitted unless specified.
Can I bring my camera or sound and video equipment?
No. Professional cameras and video and recording equipment are not allowed.
Recording devices, including iPads/tablets or any mobile phone measuring greater than 20cm, are not allowed.
Cameras with powerful zoom lenses or detachable lenses in a carry case are not allowed. Unauthorised or prohibited photography may result in images being deleted.
Media and professional photographers must arrange accreditation by contacting us. Please message/email us, and we will respond to inquiries as soon as possible.
Where do I find performance times?
Please check the event page on our website for performance times. Please note, times can be subject to change without notice.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
No. If the event if licenced, alcohol will be available for purchase at the venue. So bring your ID!
Can I bring my own food?
No. You cannot bring food to Standing Mode events. We'll have food and beverage options to purchase onsite.
Every attempt is made to ensure all dietary requirements are catered for at our event; however, if you have a specific dietary requirement for medical reasons, you are welcome to bring your own food.
If you need to bring your own food for medical reasons, please ensure it is snack size and can fit in a small bag up to A4 paper size.
Where can I park?
Parking is available onsite and to the west of Bundall Road; however, we highly recommend investigating other methods of transport, such as taxi, rideshare, walking, cycling and public transport for getting to the event.
If you are driving, please consider carpooling. Parking is limited and there will be high demand for available spaces.
Are pass outs available?
No. Pass outs are not available.
I have accessibility and mobility needs. Will my visit be accessible?
HOTA is committed to providing access to the performing arts for everyone.
For more information about Accessibility at HOTA visit our accessibility webpage or call us on (07) 5588 4000 for specific requirements.
Is First Aid available?
Yes. First Aid is available on site. Please ask event staff, Security Officers, or First Aid Officers if you require first aid assistance.
Can I bring my dog?
No. For the safety and comfort of all our patrons, animals are not permitted inside HOTA Venues, including the HOTA Outdoor Stage when it is activated for an event.
Registered Assistance Animals are welcome.
What if it rains?
Performances will go ahead in rain.
Performances will be cancelled if the weather conditions are deemed to be dangerous.
The decision to cancel the performance will be made as early as possible but may not be made until the day of the show. In the event of inclement weather, we recommend you check the HOTA website and social media channels for the latest performance updates before departing.
Can I smoke?
Only in the designated Smoking Area.
Where is lost property?
After the event, any lost property will be kept at HOTA Hello Desk for a month.
Is the program time likely to change?
Occasionally changes occur that are out of our control.
Will there be accessible facilities?
Yes. Accessible toilets and parking are available at the venue. Please note: The Outdoor Stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
Besides driving what are the transport options to and from HOTA?
We have car parks at the venue, but our car park can fill up quickly. Instead of driving here we highly recommend catching a taxi, Uber, walking or cycling.
If you are going to drive, please consider carpooling.
Bus: See translink.com.au to plan your journey.
G:Link: catch the G:Link to Surfers Paradise then walk across Chevron Island and the HOTA Green Bridge – it’s about a 15-minute walk.
Pick up & Drop off: You can be dropped off and picked up from the venue. Please use the dedicated pick up / drop off zone. Drop off and pickup on surrounding roads is not permitted.
Taxis: There are two signed taxi zones within the precinct.
Rideshare: We advise that you get dropped off a short distance away and walk in to avoid being held up by any traffic entering or leaving the precinct.
#Chill Out Mode
What is Chill Out Mode?
When a HOTA event is in Chill Out Mode, we invite you to kick back and relax. You're welcome to bring along scamping chairs (back of chair no higher than 100cm), picnic rugs/ blankets and small pillows to make yourself comfy.
Please note, chairs are not provided. Please bring your own.
Please see below for the full list of allowed items and prohibited items.
What am I allowed to bring with me to the event?
• Standard-size camping chairs (back of chair no higher than 100cm).
• Picnic rugs/ blankets/small pillows.
• Clear, soft plastic water bottle 600ml max (sealed).
• Ponchos.
• Bags up to A3 paper size.
• Prams and strollers (we recommend folding down or using breaks, as the venue is on a slope).
• Sunscreen (under 600ml), sunglasses and hat.
What is prohibited from this event?
• Food.
• BYO Alcohol.
• Liquids other than water. Water must be in a sealed, soft clear 600ml max plastic bottle.
• Any unsealed bottles need to be emptied 600ml max limit
• Bags over A3 paper size.
• Glass or metal (cans and water bottles included).
• Umbrellas (even if it is raining).
• Sunshades, tents, and tables.
• Selfie and go-pro sticks.
• Metal cutlery and knives.
• Professional cameras, drones and video recording equipment.
• Pets (Registered Service Animals allowed).
• Beanbags, blow up chairs and lounges.
• Eskys or cooler bags.
• Trolleys/carts.
• Weapons or anything that could be interpreted as a weapon.
• Aerosols.
• Bicycles, skateboards, or scooters.
There will be a security check at the gate. You will have the opportunity to return prohibited items to your vehicle; however, you will be required to join the back of the queue.
Anything illegal will be confiscated.
HOTA does not take responsibility for confiscated items.
What do I need to bring with me?
• Your ticket.
• ID. You will need one of the following IDs on arrival and your person throughout the entire event:
‣ Current valid Australian driver's license (with photo).
‣ Current Passport, Government Issued Proof of Age Card.
‣ Victorian Keypass.
‣ International Driver's License (must contain a photographer)
‣ Photocopies or photos of IDs are not accepted.
• Footwear must be worn. Wear sensible footwear- the outdoor stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
• Come prepared for rain or shine- there are no sheltered areas. If the forecast is for rain, please wear sensible footwear/gumboots and bring a poncho or raincoat (no umbrellas)
Can I bring a chair or something to sit on?
Yes! You are welcome to bring a standard-sized camping chair (back of chair no higher than 100cm), picnic rugs, blankets and small pillows.
No deck chairs, reclining chairs, beanbags, blow-up air chairs or lounges.
We want as many people as possible to enjoy performances at HOTA, so we ask that you be considerate of others and consider how much space you take up with items such as chairs and rugs. We reserve the right to ask patrons to condense their space to help accommodate other patrons.
Can I bring my camera or sound and video equipment?
No. Professional cameras and video and recording equipment are not allowed.
Recording devices, including iPads/tablets or any mobile phone measuring greater than 20cm, are not allowed.
Cameras with powerful zoom lenses or detachable lenses in a carry case are not allowed. Unauthorised or prohibited photography may result in images being deleted.
Media and professional photographers must arrange accreditation by contacting us. Please message/email us, and we will respond to inquiries as soon as possible.
Where do I find performance times?
Please check the event page on our website for performance times. Please note, times can be subject to change without notice.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
No. If the event if licenced, alcohol will be available for purchase at the venue. So bring your ID!
Can I bring an esky?
No. Eskies or cooler bags are not permitted.
Can I bring my own food?
No. You are not able to bring food to Chill Out Mode events. We'll have food and beverage options to purchase onsite.
Every attempt is made to ensure all dietary requirements are catered for at our event; however, if you have a specific dietary requirement for medical reasons, you are welcome to bring your own food.
If you need to bring your own food for medical reasons, please ensure it is snack size and can fit in a small bag up to A4 paper size.
Is First Aid available?
Yes. First Aid is available on site. Please ask event staff, Security Officers, or First Aid Officers if you require first aid assistance.
Can I bring my dog?
No. For the safety and comfort of all our patrons, animals are not permitted inside HOTA Venues, including the HOTA Outdoor Stage when it is activated for an event.
Registered Assistance Animals are welcome.
Where can I park?
Parking is available onsite and to the west of Bundall Road; however, we highly recommend investigating other methods of transport – taxi, rideshare, walking, cycling and public transport for getting to the event.
If you are going to drive, please consider carpooling. Parking is limited and there will be high demand for available spaces.
Are pass outs available?
No. Pass outs are not available.
I have accessibility and mobility needs. Will my visit be accessible?
HOTA is committed to providing access to the performing arts for everyone.
For more information about Accessibility at HOTA visit our accessibility webpage or call us on (07) 5588 4000 for specific requirements.
What if it rains?
Performances will go ahead in rain.
Performances will be cancelled if the weather conditions are deemed to be dangerous.
The decision to cancel the performance will be made as early as possible but may not be made until the day of the show. In the event of inclement weather, we recommend you check the HOTA website and social media channels for the latest performance updates before departing.
Can I smoke?
Only in the designated Smoking Area.
Where is lost property?
After the event, any lost property will be kept at HOTA Hello Desk for a month.
Is the program time likely to change?
Occasionally changes occur that are out of our control.
Will there be accessible facilities?
Yes. Accessible toilets and parking are available at the venue. Please note: The Outdoor Stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
Besides driving what are the transport options to and from HOTA?
We have car parks at the venue, but our car park can fill up quickly. Instead of driving here we highly recommend catching a taxi, Uber, walking or cycling.
If you are going to drive, please consider carpooling.
Bus: See translink.com.au to plan your journey.
G:Link: catch the G:Link to Surfers Paradise then walk across Chevron Island and the HOTA Green Bridge – it’s about a 15-minute walk.
Pick up & Drop off: You can be dropped off and picked up from the venue. Please use the dedicated pick up / drop off zone. Drop off and pickup on surrounding roads is not permitted.
Taxis: There are two signed taxi zones within the precinct.
Rideshare: We advise that you get dropped off a short distance away and walk in to avoid being held up by any traffic entering or leaving the precinct.
#Community Mode
What is Community Mode?
When a HOTA event is in Community Mode, you're encouraged to bring a picnic and make yourself at home. Feel free to bring camping chairs (with backs no taller than 100cm), picnic rugs, blankets, small pillows, and a light picnic to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Please see below for the full list of allowed items and prohibited items.
What am I allowed to bring with me into the event?
• Standard-size camping chairs (back of chair no higher than 100cm).
• Picnic rugs/blankets/small pillows.
• Clear, soft plastic water bottle 600ml max (sealed).
• Ponchos.
• Bags up to A3 paper size.
• Prams and strollers (we recommend folding down or using breaks, as the venue is on a slope).
• Snacks (sandwiches, chips, etc).
• Plastic/ wooden cutlery.
• Paper/plastic/bamboo plates.
• Soft chiller bags or cooler bags. Cabin size (under 26L).
• Sunscreen (under 600ml), sunglasses and hat.
What is prohibited from this event?
• BYO Alcohol.
• Liquids other than water. Water must be in a sealed, soft, clear 600ml max plastic bottle.
• Commercial branded takeaway food.
• Bags over A3 paper size.
• Glass (including water bottles and containers).
• Metal (including cans and water bottles included).
• Umbrellas (even if it is raining).
• Sunshades, tents, and tables.
• Selfie and go-pro sticks.
• Metal cutlery and knives.
• Eskies or cooler bags larger than 26L (cabin size).
• Professional cameras, drones and video recording equipment.
• Pets (registered Service Animals allowed).
• Beanbags, blow up chairs and lounges.
• Glass/ceramic/metal containers.
• Trolleys/Carts.
• Weapons or anything that could be interpreted as a weapon.
• Aerosols.
• Wooden chopping boards.
• Bicycles, skateboards, or scooters.
There will be a security check at the gate. You will have the opportunity to return prohibited items to your vehicle; however, you will be required to join the back of the queue.
Anything illegal will be confiscated.
HOTA does not take responsibility for confiscated items.
What do I need to bring with me?
• Your ticket.
• ID (if the event is licensed). You will need one of the following IDs on arrival and your person throughout the entire event:
‣ Current valid Australian driver's license (with photo).
‣ Current Passport, Government Issued Proof of Age Card.
‣ Victorian Keypass.
‣ International Driver's License (must contain a photographer)
‣ Photocopies or photos of IDs are not accepted.
• Sensible footwear. The Outdoor Stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
• Come prepared for rain or shine. There are no sheltered areas in the Outdoor Stage. If the forecast is for rain, please wear sensible footwear/gumboots and bring a poncho or raincoat (no umbrellas are allowed in the Outdoor Stage area when it is activated for a performance).
Can I bring a chair?
You are permitted to bring a standard-sized camping chair (back of chair no higher than 100cm), Picnic rugs/ blankets/ small pillows.
No deck chairs, reclining chairs, beanbags, blow-up air chairs or lounges.
We want as many people as possible to enjoy performances at HOTA, so we ask that you are considerate of others and consider how much space you take up with items such as chairs and rugs. We reserve the right to ask patrons to condense their space to help accommodate other patrons.
Can I bring my camera or sound and video equipment?
Professional cameras and video and recording equipment are not allowed.
Recording devices including iPads / tablets or any mobile phone measuring greater than 20cm are not allowed.
Cameras with powerful zoom lenses or detachable lenses in a carry case are not allowed. Unauthorized or prohibited photography may result in images being deleted.
Media and professional photographers must arrange accreditation by contacting us. Please message/email us and enquiries will be responded to as soon as possible.
Where do I find performance times?
Please check the event page for performance times. Please note, times can be subject to change without notice.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
No. The event will be licensed, and alcohol will be available for purchase at the venue. ID is required.
Can I bring an esky?
Yes. Soft chiller bags and cooler bags are permitted as long as they are cabin size (under 26L).
Can I bring my own food?
Yes. Small snack food items are permitted. For example: chips, sandwiches, fruit, etc.
Commercial branded takeaway foods are not allowed.
Where can I park?
Parking is available onsite and to the west of Bundall Road, however we highly recommend investigating other methods of transport – taxi, Uber, walking, cycling and public transport for getting to the event.
If you are going to drive, please consider carpooling. Parking is limited and there will be high demand for available spaces.
Are pass outs available?
Yes. Pass outs are permitted; however, you may need to re-enter the queue.
I have accessibility and mobility needs, what do I do?
HOTA is committed to providing access to the performing arts for visitors with special needs.
For more information on accessibility at HOTA click the link below and or call (07) 5588 4000 for specific requirements.
Is First Aid available?
Yes. First Aid is available on site. Please ask Security, Event staff or First Aid Officers for help. Please consider others as well as your own safety. If someone is in need of medical attention please let Security, Event staff or First Aid know so they can help.
What if it rains?
Performances will go ahead in rain.
Performances will be cancelled if the weather conditions are deemed to be dangerous.
The decision to cancel the performance will be made as early as possible but may not be made until the day of the show. In the event of inclement weather, we recommend you check the HOTA website and social media channels for the latest performance updates before departing.
Can I smoke?
Only in the designated Smoking Area.
Where is lost property?
After the event, any lost property will be kept at HOTA Hello Desk for a month.
Is the program time likely to change?
Occasionally changes occur that are out of our control, however we deem it unlikely.
Will there be accessible facilities?
Yes. Accessible toilets and parking are available at the venue. Please note, The Outdoor Stage has some sloped and uneven areas.
Besides driving what are the transport options to and from HOTA?
We have car parks at the venue, but our car park can fill up quickly. Instead of driving here we highly recommend catching a taxi, Uber, walking or cycling.
If you are going to drive, please consider carpooling.
Bus: See translink.com.au to plan your journey.
G:Link: catch the G:Link to Surfers Paradise then walk across Chevron Island and the HOTA Green Bridge – it’s about a 15-minute walk.
Pick up & Drop off: You can be dropped off and picked up from the venue. Please use the dedicated pick up / drop off zone. Drop off and pickup on surrounding roads is not permitted.
Taxis: There are two signed taxi zones within the precinct.
Rideshare: We advise that you get dropped off a short distance away and walk in to avoid being held up by any traffic entering or leaving the precinct.
#Ticketed Events & Ticket Scalping
Will tickets be available at the gate?
Tickets will not be available at the gate. If tickets are still available on the night of the show you can purchase them from Box Office.
Can lost tickets be replaced?
No. Once the ticket sale is processed the purchase is final. While obviously we sympathise with you if you lose your ticket, we are unable to reissue. Even if we have a record of your purchase, we cannot be certain that other less scrupulous members of the public will not use the ticket.
Who do I contact if I have an enquiry regarding ticket orders/purchase?
Please contact the HOTA box office (07) 5588 4000.
I have selected print-at-home but can't find the confirmation email. How do I print my tickets?
Please contact the HOTA box office (07) 5588 4000.
What does HOTA do to prevent ticket scalping?
HOTA limits the number of tickets individuals can purchase to a concert. On shows that are considered to be particularly popular, numbers may be greatly limited and special measures may be employed such as lining up in person to purchase tickets, ticket suppression and/or photo identification being required to enter a seat/venue on the night.
We monitor prominent auction sites and unauthorised resellers for tickets that are being sold in breach of our authorised ticketing agencies’ Terms of Sale.
It is worth noting that it is against the Listing Policy of most auction sites and unauthorised resellers to offer products that are not physically in the seller’s possession.
Unfortunately these measures can sometimes inconvenience the patrons we’re trying to protect; however these are the current methods available to us to limit and control scalping. You should seriously consider whether to buy tickets from a scalper.
We also do our best to educate our customers not to purchase tickets via any secondary resale site with messaging on our website and social media channels.
Our hope is that the various Governments will introduce anti-scalping legislation that will protect and look after the interest of honest fans.
Australians are passionate about their music, sport and entertainment and, we believe, shouldn’t be taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals.
What is HOTA's position on ticket scalping?
Ticket scalping and the presence of unauthorised resellers is an issue which continues to frustrate many music fans, artists, venues and promoters, including the team at HOTA.
For this event tickets will only be available from HOTA, Home of the Arts – online or at our Box Office.
We know that Australians are as passionate about music and live entertainment as we are and we believe that you shouldn’t be taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals.
We really cannot stress this enough – fans buying tickets to shows presented by any promoter are warned not to buy tickets from unauthorised operators.
Our only advice is: simply don’t do it.
You don’t know who you’re buying from, the ticket may be in breach of the terms and conditions set by the original ticketing agency (and therefore cancelled), or the same ticket might have been sold multiple times to different people.
We hate seeing patrons pay inflated prices for tickets or turned away because their ticket isn’t valid. Beware of sites offering “100% money back guarantee” as this is not the same as getting to experience the show you have booked tickets for. We constantly see disappointed fans turned away at the door when they present tickets which have either been cancelled, sold multiple times, or are complete fakes.
Not only is it a waste of money, it’s simply heartbreaking for fans when this happens – particularly right outside the venue door.
Unfortunately, when this happens, HOTA is unable to help you in getting a refund or re-issuing the unauthorised ticket.
At no time does HOTA allocate tickets to any of the following organisations:
theticketmerchant.com.au | ticketfinders.com.au | worldticketshop.com | ebay.com.au | viagogo.com.au | Ticketmaster Resale (accessible via ticketmaster.com.au)
Scalpers also use the platform Ticketmaster Resale but that does not make them authorised sellers. This can be confusing because Ticketmaster is an official ticketing outlet.
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