Aussies stranded at lookout as road washes away
In videos posted to social media, the group could be seen waving from a lookout in the Gold Coast as huge swells caused by Cyclone Alfred surrounded them.
Environment
Don't miss out on the headlines from Environment. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A group of people became stranded at a lookout on the Gold Coast after huge swells took out the road to the mainland.
In a video posted to social media, the group can be seen waving from the top of Elephant Rock in Currumbin on Wednesday afternoon, surrounded by huge waves caused by Cyclone Alfred.
TikTok user Ashton Marsh, who was part of the group, posted a video from his point of view, showing the road covered in water.
MORE:Aus insurers’ sick move as cyclone nears
“Cyclone Alfred has trapped us and destroyed the road at Currumbin beach,” he wrote.
In a statement, Queensland Police said the group were “safely removed” from the lookout on Wednesday.
The rock is home to the Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Club, who announced on social media that they would be closing for the storm on Wednesday morning.
“Due to the recent cyclonic conditions and for the safety of our patrons and staff, the Currumbin Beach SLSC will be temporarily closed until further notice,” they posted around 10am.
“We know this may be disappointing, but the safety of our community is our top priority. Please stay safe, avoid the beach during this time, and follow all advice from local authorities.
“Stay safe, everyone!”
MORE:1.88m Aussie homes in path of Cyclone Alfred’s fury
The group received major criticism from commenters online who said they should have removed themselves long before the cyclone caused the major swells.
“This really makes me question how we have survived so long as a species,” one commenter wrote.
Another wrote: “Honestly these people create life-threatening situations. Go home and stay home. Feel for emergency services who have to go and save their sorry butts.”
The incident came shortly after two cars which were parked at the club were also swept away in the swells.
A Gold Coast City Council spokeswoman confirmed one of the cars was a council car.
“The City beach maintenance vehicle was picking up debris on the beach and removing fencing from the nearby Currumbin seawall in preparation for TC Alfred when it was briefly caught in a tidal surge,” she said.
“The vehicle was quickly driven off the beach without incident.”
Originally published as Aussies stranded at lookout as road washes away
What happens when Cyclone Alfred hits
Flash flooding and storm surges are the chief concerns as Tropical Cyclone Alfred surges toward millions of people, bringing with it torrential rain and strong winds.
Thousands given just hours to evacuate
Thousands have been ordered to evacuate while a jet skier is feared missing as Tropical Cyclone Alfred brings wild weather even before making landfall.