The Dolphin Riders Arrive at Soul Boardwalk
Soul Boardwalk has welcomed a major new public artwork to Surfers Paradise, with internationally acclaimed artists Gillie and Marc bringing their striking sculpture, The Dolphin Riders, to the beachfront precinct.
Now installed at the front of Soul Boardwalk, the bronze and stainless steel sculpture creates a new visual landmark in one of the Gold Coast’s most recognised tourism and lifestyle destinations. Measuring three metres in length and standing 1.5 metres high, the artwork depicts Gillie and Marc’s signature characters riding a dolphin, bringing a playful coastal moment to the precinct while carrying a deeper message about unity, friendship and caring for our oceans.
A world-class artwork by Gillie and Marc
Gillie and Marc are internationally recognised artists known for their large-scale public sculptures and distinctive characters. Their work can be found in major cities around the world, with more than 100 public sculptures created globally and permanent installations in Sydney, New York and London.
Their work often combines playful imagery with meaningful messages, particularly around conservation, connection and the relationship between people and the natural world.
For Gillie and Marc, Surfers Paradise was a natural home for The Dolphin Riders.
“Surfers Paradise felt like a natural home for The Dolphin Riders because it is a place defined by its relationship to the ocean. The sculpture speaks directly to marine life, unity and collective responsibility and placing it along Soul Boardwalk allows the work to exist in dialogue with the sea itself.”
The artists also described the sculpture as a powerful visual metaphor, with Rabbitwoman and Dogman riding together above the shoreline to represent humanity moving in harmony with nature.
A meaningful gift to Surfers Paradise
The Dolphin Riders was generously donated by Gillie and Marc as a gift to Soul Boardwalk and the wider Surfers Paradise community.
The installation gives locals and visitors a new public artwork to enjoy in an everyday setting, positioned right by the beachfront and close to Soul Boardwalk’s dining, retail and family attractions.
Nicholas Rix, Associate Director of Savills Asset Management, Managers of Soul Boardwalk, said the sculpture is a significant cultural addition for Surfers Paradise.
“This is a significant cultural addition for Surfers Paradise. It demonstrates a commitment to public art and strengthens the connection between the precinct and its oceanfront setting.”
A new landmark for a changing beachfront
The arrival of The Dolphin Riders comes as Surfers Paradise continues to evolve through the City of Gold Coast’s major revitalisation plans.
This includes the permanent pedestrianisation of a 250 metre section of The Esplanade directly in front of Soul Boardwalk, as part of the broader $138 million Surfers Paradise Revitalisation Project. The upgraded beachfront is expected to support increased visitation, events and public space activation throughout the precinct.
Positioned alongside the newly pedestrian-friendly beachfront zone, The Dolphin Riders adds to the area’s transformation into a more walkable, experience-led destination.
For Soul Boardwalk, the sculpture enhances the precinct’s relaxed coastal atmosphere and creates a memorable new feature for visitors enjoying the beachfront.
Visit The Dolphin Riders at Soul Boardwalk
Visitors can now see The Dolphin Riders at the front of Soul Boardwalk in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
While you are there, explore the precinct’s restaurants, cafés, bars, family attractions and retailers. Soul Boardwalk is home to a diverse mix of dining and lifestyle experiences, including oceanfront venues, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Surfers Paradise and Build-A-Bear Workshop.
Whether you are visiting with family, meeting friends for a meal or walking along the beachfront, The Dolphin Riders offers a new photo-worthy moment at Soul Boardwalk.
Come and see the sculpture at Soul Boardwalk, Surfers Paradise.
Need a sugar fix?
Need a sugar fix?
Pancakes on the Rocks Surfers Paradise is located within Soul Boardwalk, 4 The Esplanade, Shop T1.31, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217 – just across the road from the beautiful beach!
