New event encourages real connections in Brisbane's dating scene

According to Time Out's 2025 Best Cities in the World survey, Brisbane is one of the most challenging Australian cities to find love, with about 28 per cent of residents saying it is easy to meet someone.

While dating apps have become the go-to for modern dating, many people say it is difficult to form real connections.

A new dating event Pitch Your Single Friend offers a unique alternative for Brisbane residents.

A new wingman-centric dating event is gaining popularity in Brisbane for its creative way of bringing people together. (Queensland Lens: Ella McLachlan).

Hosted by Conscious Connections, the event invites people aged 25 to 45 to bring a friend who has three minutes to pitch their personality to the audience.

Conscious Connections founder and organiser Sheridan said Pitch Your Single Friend was created to offer an intentional, low-pressure alternative to form genuine connections away from online dating.

"I think online dating and speed dating events are often the epitome of small talk and shallow

connection," Sheridan said.

"I think this event is going to encourage people to have more fun with dating and not see it as

being so serious," Sheridan said.

Many singles events can make people feel pressured to find "the one" by the end of the night,

but Sheridan says Pitch Your Single Friend focuses on genuine connection formed in a relaxed environment.

"Even if you don't meet the love of your life that night, you might make a friend who could

introduce you to your next partner," Sheridan said.

The presentation by participants "wingman" act as a good conversation starter.

"It is designed in a way that you can get to know a few people at once without those daunting

one-on-one conversations," Sheridan said.

Those closest to the single candidate construct a multimedia presentation outlining their friend's personal traits, interests, and lifestyle. (Queensland Lens: Ella McLachlan).

25-year-old Ella said she used to feel exhausted after constantly checking apps for replies.

"I remember seeing people who had the qualities I was after, but they were only looking for

short-term," Ella said.

Ella said she was successful once she stopped pressuring herself to force connections.

24-year-old Tianyin said meeting new people in Brisbane can be difficult.

"Brisbane feels like a big town, there's a lot of overlap in various social circles," Tianyin said.

Tianyin said from his experience in online dating, he learnt that it is about not being judgmental of people but getting to know each other through face-to-face connection.

Events like Pitch your single friend offer organic connections and real conversations, producing positive outcomes.

"I know at least three couples who met at our first Brisbane event back in April," Sheridan said.

Conscious Connections hosts other social events in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, including games nights, group dinners and picnics.

The next Pitch Your Single Friend event is on 5 November at Catchment Brewing in West End,

with tickets selling fast.