Sunshine Coast Through a Vintage Lens: My Artistic Tribute to Paradise
There’s something timeless about the Sunshine Coast — a region where golden beaches meet lush hinterland, and laid-back surf culture coexists with vibrant local creativity. As an artist inspired by the golden era of travel posters, the Sunshine Coast is not just where I live — it’s my muse. Through my Sunshine Coast retro travel poster series, I aim to capture the charm and character of this iconic stretch of Queensland in a way that pays tribute to its past while celebrating its present.
My work is heavily influenced by mid-20th-century travel advertising — the kind of posters that once adorned railway stations and travel agency windows, promising adventure and relaxation in equal measure. These vintage designs were bold, colourful, and full of optimism — much like the Sunshine Coast itself. By applying this aesthetic to familiar local landscapes, I strive to evoke both nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for the places we sometimes take for granted.
Take Noosa, for instance. Known for its pristine beaches, world-class surf breaks, and chic Hastings Street vibe, it’s a location that feels both classic and contemporary. In my poster, I framed Noosa Main Beach beneath a stylised sunset sky, with vintage sun umbrellas on golden sands and the headland walking trail stretching into the distance. It’s a blend of simplicity and serenity, inspired by old Qantas and P&O travel ads — but unmistakably Noosa.
Then there’s Mooloolaba, a place that radiates energy with its beachfront esplanade and buzzing café scene. For this design, I leaned into the dynamic spirit of surf culture. I illustrated a classic surfer heading towards catching a wave, with the Mooloolaba Spit in the background and the classic surf life-guard tower nodding to the area’s holiday heritage. The use of soft pastels and sun-faded textures gives the piece a dreamy, sun-kissed vibe — much like a memory from a beach holiday long ago.
Perhaps most dramatic of all is the Glass House Mountains. These ancient volcanic plugs rising from the hinterland offer a completely different visual language — one of mystery, grandeur, and deep connection to Country. In my poster, I chose to depict the peaks at golden hour, with exaggerated shadows and bold, geometric shapes inspired by 1930s travel art. The colours are earthy and rich, drawing from the ochres and greens of the surrounding bush. It’s less about tourism and more about timeless awe.
Creating these posters is more than just a design exercise — it’s a way of storytelling. Each piece is an invitation to pause, reflect, and rediscover the Sunshine Coast through a different lens. Whether you’re a local who knows these places intimately, or a visitor dreaming of sun-drenched escapes, my goal is to stir a sense of wanderlust — and to remind us all why we fell in love with this coastal paradise in the first place.
As I continue to expand the collection, I’m always on the lookout for new locations, forgotten corners, and community stories to bring into the frame. Because in the Sunshine Coast, inspiration is everywhere — all you have to do is look.