Connect with new friends, build global networks and most importantly—have fun!
Each trimester the Griffith Mates host activities, networking events and day trips throughout Queensland for Griffith University's diverse student population. Our activities and events are hosted across our Gold Coast and Brisbane campuses for both domestic and international students. We celebrate the rich, diverse culture at Griffith University through interactive games, activities and experiences that allow students to make new friendships and create lasting memories.
Trimester 2, 2026
The Griffith Mates are delighted to invite all currently enrolled Griffith University, Griffith College and GELI students (domestic and international) to explore and register for our range of exciting events and activities on offer in Trimester 2.
International Student Buddy Program
The Buddy Program is designed to help ease the transition to uni life and provide a safe and comfortable environment for new international students to ask questions about Griffith, life in Australia, as well as practise English. It’s also a great way to make friends!
Program launch: Buddy Meet and Match Event
Weeks 1–3
Buddy group activities (held at a variety of on-campus and off-campus locations)
Week 4
Final buddy group activity and end of program celebration
Aussie Snacks and Wildlife Encounters
Join Griffith Mates and make new friends before you start your first week at university. Meet native Australian animals (reptiles), snack on Aussie treats, and put your English language skills to the test with an Aussie Trivia Challenge and games. It’s a great way to make friends, have fun, and dive into the local culture!
- Friday 10 July
- 1:00pm to 2:30pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
Study Abroad & Exchange Coffee Catch Up
Study Abroad and Exchange students are invited to mix and mingle with Griffith Mates for a casual coffee chat. This is a great chance to meet your peers in short term programs and create a strong friendship network during your Griffith journey. A free hot beverage is included for registered attendees - This event is open to Study Abroad & Exchange students only.
Eco Walk and Talk with Mates
Join the Mates for an on-campus nature walk and talk experience with Dr Wade Hadwen or Professor Catherine Pickering, Griffith's very own environmental experts, as they share their knowledge of the unique and fascinating flora and fauna we have on our naturally beautiful campuses.
Week 1
Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Wednesday 15 July
- 10:30am to 11:30am
- Departs from N68 Eco Centre
Gold Coast
- Tuesday 14 July
- 12:00pm to 1:00pm
- Departs from G10 Library Lawn
Global Connections Night
Join us for the Global Connections Networking Night, an exciting opportunity to connect with students from around the world, share experiences, and build lasting friendships!
Week 1
- Thursday 16 July
- 6:00pm to 8:00pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
Professional Development Workshop
Are you looking for ways to enhance and strengthen your employability skills? Join Griffith Mates at a free professional development workshop, presented by Griffith's Career Development Consultant team. This session will focus on crafting a purpose-driven career.
Week 2
Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Monday 20 July
- 10:30am to 11:30am
- N76_1.04
Gold Coast
- Thursday 23 July
- 10:30am to 11:30am
- G11_3.62
Toastmasters with Mates
Build your confidence in public speaking with Griffith Mates at our interactive Toastmasters session. Designed for students of all experience levels, this supportive workshop provides a welcoming environment to practise speaking, develop communication skills through impromptu activities, and receive constructive peer feedback. Whether you're preparing for presentations, interviews, or simply looking to become a more confident communicator, this session is a great opportunity to grow your skills and connect with fellow students.
Week 2
- Tuesday 21 July
- 10:00am to 11:00am
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
Belonging by Design Workshop
Join us for Belonging by Design, an interactive workshop hosted by 2026 Gold Coast Mayor's Student Ambassador, Alexa Rose, where you'll explore what makes communities welcoming, inclusive and meaningful.
Through creative activities and group discussions, you'll reflect on your own experiences, connect with other students, and work together to design a student community where everyone feels able to participate and contribute.
Whether you're looking to meet new people, share ideas or think differently about belonging at university, this session is open to all students. No previous leadership experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to get involved.
Week 2
Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Thursday 23 July
- 11:00am to 12:00pm
- N53_0.59
Gold Coast
- Wednesday 22 July
- 11:00am to 12:00pm
- G42_2.17
Get Active with Mates
Get moving, enjoy the outdoors, and meet new friends with the Griffith Mates! Participate in social games and fun activities suitable for all fitness levels.
Week 3
- Tuesday 28 July
- 2:00pm to 3:00pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
Mindfulness with Mates
Join us for Mindfulness with Mates — a friendly, low-pressure, pop-up stall to unwind, relax and de-stress through a range of mindful activities during the busy academic period.
Week 3
Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Thursday 30 July
- 11:00am to 1:00pm
- N76 Campus Heart
Gold Coast
- Thursday 30 July
- 10:00am to 1:00pm
- G11 Library Lawn / Shard
Volunteer with Mates - Bush Care
Join Griffith Mates for a Bush Care volunteering opportunity in collaboration with the local Mount Gravatt Environmental Group. This Trimester, we'll be at the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds, helping prepare planting sites for National Tree Day. Connect with the local community, contribute to environmental conservation, and make a lasting impact while giving back to the local environment.
Week 3
- Saturday 1 August
- 9:00am to 11:00am
- Mt Gravatt Showgrounds, Brisbane
Volunteer with Mates - Community Youth Day
Make a difference this Community Youth Day! Join Griffith Mates, Global Shapers and Serve the City Australia for a rewarding day of volunteering, connection and community impact. Work alongside like-minded volunteers on hands-on projects that support local communities, build meaningful connections and create positive change.
Choose from one of three volunteer projects to take part in. As part of this effort, Griffith Mates will also be collecting non-perishable food donations in the lead-up to Community Youth Day to support the food outreach project. Whether you're passionate about the environment, supporting others or simply giving back, Community Youth Day is a great opportunity to connect with others while making a meaningful impact.
Week 3
- Saturday 1 August
- 9:00am to 12:00pm
- Labrador Squash Club, Gold Coast
World Fair
Our Griffith Mates will be showcasing their diverse nationalities at our World Fair. Visit the Griffith Mates pop up stalls to learn about another culture, sample local snacks, and play some games. Everyone is welcome!
Week 4
- Thursday 6 August
- 11:00am to 1:00pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
Griffith Mates Day Trip: Whale Watching Adventure
Join Griffith Mates for an unforgettable day on the Gold Coast! Experience the incredible humpback whale migration on a scenic whale watching cruise before spending the afternoon connecting with other students through relaxed coastal activities hosted by Griffith Mates along The Spit, Gold Coast.
Week 4
- Saturday 8 August
- 11:00am to 4:30pm. We will be departing from Sea World Cruise Terminal at 11:30am
- $49 per ticket
- Sea World Cruise Terminal / The Spit, Gold Coast
Ticket registration and purchase inclusions
- Sea World Whale Watching Cruise Ticket
- Light Catering. Students are welcome to bring their own snacks, lunch and/or purchase additional food and beverages from the kiosk at the cruise terminal or onboard the vessel.
Transport: Please arrange your own transport to and from Sea World Cruise Terminal / The Spit. Cost of transport is not included in any ticket sales.
The full Terms and Conditions are available during the GriffithPay purchase process. By purchasing a ticket, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
International Night
Come and celebrate the diverse cultures we have at Griffith University. The Griffith Mates are excited to host an International Night at Gold Coast and Brisbane South (Nathan). A light dinner will be provided with plenty of activities and opportunities to connect with new friends!
Week 5
- Friday 21 August
- 6:30pm to 8:30pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast
R U OK? Day Pop Up Booth
Join the Mates at the R U OK? Day Pop-Up Booth, where we encourage meaningful conversations and connection within the Griffith community. Stop by to learn more about the importance of checking in with friends, classmates, and colleagues, access wellbeing resources, and take part in interactive activities designed to promote mental health awareness.
Week 8
- Thursday 10 September
- 10:00am to 2:00pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast