Gold Coast singles swipe right on 2025’s biggest day for dating

What Gold Coast singles in their 20s, 30s and 40s really want and go for has been revealed by a dating expert. Read how she is playing cupid for couples.

Gold Coast singles are preparing for ‘Dating Sunday’ - the busiest day of the year for swiping, liking, and messaging.

But it’s not all online; locals are flocking to speed dating and singles mixers as they dive into their dating resolutions with “in-person connections”.

Falling on January 5, the first Sunday of the new year sees a spike in dating activity, with apps like Hinge reporting a 27 per cent increase in likes and a 29 per cent jump in messages compared to the average Sunday, new data suggests.

But Cheeky Events founder Cheri Mangan says the in-person dating scene is also thriving.

“People on the Coast are looking for real, genuine connections. They’re ready to meet their long-term partner, especially those aged 26 to 44.

“And they’re looking for wholesome dates - things like picnics, beach walks, or indoor rock climbing.”

Cheeky Events founder Cheri Mangan. Photo: Supplied

“We’re also seeing a lot of business-type people and yong professionals on the Coast seeking goal-driven partners.”

The Burleigh local who hosts events at popular dating hotspots like Isla Cantina and ELE Bar and across Australia, has seen a huge surge of interest in the new year, selling 250 tickets per day - nearly triple the normal rate.

“People have had a couple of weeks to reflect over the holidays and they’re deciding to take their love life seriously.”

Photos from Cheeky Events singles mixer on the Gold Coast. Photo: Supplied

Photos from Cheeky Events singles mixer on the Gold Coast. Photo: Supplied

She said what she calls “the single tax” is one of the main motivators.

“It’s expensive being single.

“Renting a place on your own is hard and the chances of buying somewhere on your own are quite low unless you’ve got wealthy parents.

“It’s also loneliness - you’re feeling like you’re third wheeling with your friends and it’s frustrating.

“A lot of women are also worrying about their biological clock.”

Cheri Mangan with her husband and daughter. Photo: Supplied

Ms Mangan, who met her husband at one of her events offered some advice for those stepping out of their comfort zone this Sunday.

“You have to be yourself - even if you have to fake your confidence a little bit. You also want to have a few ice breaker questions up your sleeve to get the conversation flowing.

“People love talking about themselves, so ask lot’s of questions.

“Picking a life partner is the biggest decision you’ll ever make,” she said.

“It’s worth taking the time to get it right.”