Iceland: Bundall ice skating rink run by Sullivan family closes after nearly 30 years

The Gold Coast’s last remaining ice rink has suddenly closed after nearly 30 years in business, with its operators revealing the sad reason why. THEIR SAD GOODBYE

The beloved Iceland ice skating rink opened in 1996.

The Gold Coast’s last remaining ice rink has suddenly closed after nearly 30 years in business, with its operators saying the decision was “not an easy one”.

Bundall’s Iceland Ice Rink opened in 1996 and has been a favourite attraction for generations of families but the Sullivan family say rising costs have made it impossible to continue.

Grahame and Sharon Sullivan, who first opened the complex with Mrs Sullivan’s father Patrick Burley, said via statement they wanted to “keep the spirit of Iceland alive”.

“The decision to close this beloved rink has not been an easy one – Rising insurance premiums and operating costs have made it impossible to continue (and) like many in the industry, we’ve faced challenges beyond resolution,” they said.

The Iceland ice skating rink in Strathaird road Bundall has closed.

“We want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey - skaters, coaches, players, parents, and supporters. You’ve all helped make Iceland the special place it was.

“While the Bundall rink has now closed, the next generation is dedicated to carrying the brand forward and we remain optimistic about Iceland’s future as we look to find a new location.

“Thank you all for your unwavering support (and while) Iceland may be closing its doors, the impact it has had on so many lives will live on forever.”

Iceland was announced in late 1995 by Mr Burly, a legendary skating figure who opened rinks across Australia and had built special facilities for Torvill and Dean.

Grahame and Sharon Sullivan at Iceland in Bundall on the Gold Coast. The rink has closed after nearly 30 years.

His wife Nancy was an Olympic skater in the 1950s, while his daughters Sharon and Robyn won nine titles between them.

Sharon Sullivan also represented Australia at the Helsinki Winter Olympics in 1976.

Built inside an abandoned warehouse at a cost of $1m, Mr Burley predicted it would be a success.

“We installed a temporary ice skating rink at Pacific Fair a while back and it was a tremendous success,” he said at the time.

The rink was popular with ice skaters for generations.

“When we found the Bundall property we thought what a wonderful opportunity it was to set up a permanent rink here.

“It is an extremely complicated process but the vibes we are getting from the public I believe will make it extremely successful.’’

Ownership of the Bundall property on Strathaird Road, has changed several times in recent years.

In 2017 a NSW investor bought it for $2.4m, while it was then snapped up in 2020 by developer John Potter’s Potter Group for $2.8m.

Mr Potter later announced plans for a $10.5m strata-titled warehouse development project which is yet to progress.

The rink was a popular place to keep cool on hot days in summer. Picture: Glenn Hampson

Mr and Mr Sullivan said the decision to close had been difficult and had been made with “heavy hearts”.

“For decades, it has been a home for skaters, hockey players, and ice sports fans of all ages,” they said.

“Gold Coast Iceland was not just a rink — it was a legacy, a place where we made lifelong memories and formed many lasting relationships.

“Grahame carried Pat’s vision forward from Victoria to the Gold Coast, creating a space where both beginners and seasoned athletes could thrive.

“The Burley family legacy in the ice-skating world is unmatched, and through Iceland, they ensured the name remained synonymous with quality, passion, and innovation in ice sports.” 

Originally published as Iceland: Bundall ice skating rink run by Sullivan family closes after nearly 30 years