wellness
Protein sources beyond meat: a local guide
Gold Coast residents are shifting toward eggs, legumes and seafood to fuel surf lifesaving drills and hinterland hikes amid rising interest in varied protein options.
How we reported this
More Gold Coast locals are swapping some meat meals for eggs, pulses and fresh seafood as they prepare for summer training at surf clubs and weekend treks through the hinterland.
The change reflects a broader push for balanced eating that supports high activity levels without depending on a single protein type. Wellness influencers based around Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach have posted meal ideas featuring chickpeas and Greek yoghurt in recent months, aligning with community programs run by clubs along the coastline.
Local spots stocking alternatives
Shoppers can find bulk chickpeas and lentils at the Miami Marketta on Gold Coast Highway in Miami, where stalls open every Saturday from 5am. The same vendors also sell free-range eggs from farms near Springbrook. Further north, the Gold Coast Surf Life Saving headquarters on Marine Parade in Southport stocks protein-rich snacks including tinned sardines and almond butter for members completing patrol shifts at Kurrawa Beach.
These venues tie directly into daily routines. Volunteers at the Southport club often prepare lentil salads before early-morning beach sessions, while hikers starting from the Lamington National Park trailhead in Canungra carry boiled eggs and roasted chickpeas for sustained energy on longer walks.
Evidence behind the choices
A 2025 Gold Coast City Council wellness survey of 1,200 residents found 47 percent now eat plant or seafood proteins at least four times a week, up from 31 percent in 2022. Prices at local markets show chickpeas selling for $2.80 per kilogram and a dozen large eggs averaging $6.50, figures that have held steady since March this year.
Residents seeking personal guidance on portions or allergies should consult a local medical professional or accredited dietitian practising on the Gold Coast. Simple swaps such as adding Greek yoghurt to breakfast bowls or grilling local prawns twice weekly can be tested at home before committing to new habits.