Chess thrives at Gold Coast 2025

The Gold Coast Open 2025 Chess Tournament, one of Australia’s biggest and most prestigious events which has been running since 1993 ended this week.  The Premier division started early on 10 July 2025.  

This event drew participants of every age, rated and unrated, offering them the chance to compete in the Minor, Major, or Premier division.

The Premier division with players rated over 1800 included local and international title  and non-title players. Certain Juniors players exhibited exceptional chess expertise within this classification.

GM Ian Rogers provided analysis during live gameplay. His insights were fascinating over two days.  Attendees had the opportunity to participate in the Premier division live game analysis during breaks or between the Minor and Major division rounds.

In Gold Coast, chess thrives as young juniors dominate the Major and Minor categories alongside older players.  Observing over 240 players across two divisions, it was impressive to witness young players refining their chess skills through active gameplay and training.

Gold Coast experienced exceptional weather, providing players numerous opportunities for playing, shopping, or sightseeing.

The event at Broadbeach Cultural Centre was well-organized by Gardiner Chess with essential player amenities and prizes for each division including grading prizes.

Besides chess, Gold Coast is known for its tourism industry, experiencing a significant increase in visitors.

Winners of the Gold Coast 2025

FM Yi Liu is the Gold Coast 2025 Open Champion, scoring 7 out of 9,

trailed by GM Jacek Stopa and GM Zong-Yuan Zhao with 6.5 out of 9 games.

In the Major Division Champions partnered with victors Kevin Reid and Joshua Liu, achieving a 6 out of 7 game score

Isaac Tebbutt is the champion in the Minor Division, scoring 6.5 out of 7 games.