Beloved Gold Coast social photographer Regina King given keys to the city

A fixture of the Gold Coast’s social scene for decades and an “iconic” photographer, Regina ‘Yoohoo’ King has been honoured again. See the ceremony photos

Beloved Gold Coast social photographer Regina King is best known for her decades behind the lens, but it was all eyes – and cameras – on her as she accepted the city’s highest honour.

Ms King was presented with the keys to the city on Friday - despite being able to walk through most doors - joining the illustrious ranks of high-profile Gold Coasters to receive the coveted distinction.

Previously praised by Mayor Tom Tate as an “iconic” photographer who “captured the essence of the city’s social life”, the impact of the former Gold Coast Bulletin social photographer’s work and presence was evident throughout the ceremony.

Gold Coast Bulletin social photographer Regina King presented with the Key to the City by Lord Mayor Tom Tate. Picture: Glenn Campbel

Jokingly referring to the crowd of friends, family and high-profile Gold Coasters as ‘the Regina King appreciation society’, Ms King’s partner Peter Flowers even led attendees in a chorus of her famous “yoohoo” catchphrase.

Ms King said she was “proud, excited, and honoured”.

“Little old me, who just did the job of running around the town and snapping everybody and everything I could find,” she said.

Peter Flowers and Regina King after announcing their retirement. Picture Glenn Hampson

Arriving on the Gold Coast in the 1960s, Ms King discovered her passion for photography and honed her craft by snapping photos of tourists on the city’s beaches in between stints performing onstage.

Her decades-long career would go on to feature interviewing celebrities and prominent figures and documenting milestones in the city’s history, in addition to capturing its vibrant social scene.

Ms King retired in December 2022.

Regina King and Peter Flowers flashback A photo shoot for GC magazine from 1995 approx

Tracing the Gold Coast’s transition from “a little village” to the burgeoning hub it is today, forging a path for herself in a male-dominated industry was no mean feat for Ms King – but it’s one she looks back on fondly.

“It was very hard because (the others) bullied me something terrible, but anyway I held my ground, as we do – as women do,” she said.

“It was exciting because every job was different – we might be at the Lady Mayoress’ Ball one minute, then out the back of Nerang doing (something completely different).

“All good fun, all good mates, all big laughs.”

Regina King and Peter Flowers

Quipping about the stories she and Mr Flowers could tell after their years in the job, Ms King saved her biggest thanks for her partner in all things.

“Of course I couldn’t do it at all without my helper here, Peter, because he has been over the last 50 years the most wonderful friend a person could have,” she said.

“May we have another 50 years.”

Ms King was the second person to receive the city’s top honour this week, joining billionaire developer Harry Triguboff.

Originally published as Beloved Gold Coast social photographer Regina King given keys to the city