Raging torrent: Insane footage shows Purling Brook falls as you’ve never seen it

The Gold Coast’s most famous waterfall has become a raging torrent after 500mm+ rains as new footage shows it resembling Niagara Falls. Major hikes are now closed. WATCH VIDEO

Wild footage of a raging Purling Brook Falls after the biblical rains has captured the powerful waters pounding down with such ferocity it resembles Niagara Falls.

A video taken by photographer/videographer Reuben Nutt on January 1 shows an insane torrent of floodwater blasting down the rockface at the Gold Coast’s famous falls in Springbrook National Park.

Heavy mist and strong winds enveloped the entire area including the nearby walking bridge, making for such dangerous conditions authorities were forced to close the popular hike.

A raging Purling Brook falls. Photo: Reuben Nutt

Purling Brook Falls circuit has been shut until Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services (QPWS) can guarantee the surrounding track’s safety after the excessive rainfall.

The closure alert, posted on the government website on Tuesday, said the circuit would be temporarily closed until the tracks were declared safe.

A Department of Environment, Science and Innovation spokesperson confirmed the Springbrook area received 560mm of rainfall between January 1-2 and said rangers from QPWS were continuing to assess and clean up the damage.

“While waters have receded, rangers are continuing to clean up flood debris and fallen trees that have impacted walking tracks and viewing points,” the spokesperson said.

“Rangers are also working to repair damage to park infrastructure,including paths, railings and viewing points along the Purling Brook Falls circuit, which will remain closed until the area is safe for visitors.”

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk from Apple Tree Park to the Settlement Camping area is also affected.

Mist covered the entire area. Photo: Reuben Nutt

Purling Brook Falls is normally much calmer. Photo by @deeyontae

The Gwongorella picnic area and western lookout is open, but all other walking tracks within Springbrook National Park are being assessed.

Nerang National Park has also been affected by the severe weather event and, while it remains open, those visiting have been warned to watch for falling trees and branches.

The Oceanview Track in Burleigh Heads National Park has been closed as boulder falls and landslides are more likely to occur during times of high rainfall.

Burleigh’s Rainforest Circuit remains open for through walks.

Sections of Tamborine National Park are closed due to “dangerous hazards” in the wake of the Christmas Day storms.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation spokesperson said to check Park Alerts on their website before entering any national park.

“Members of the public are asked to be mindful of current local road closures and ongoing efforts to restore essential services to nearby communities,” they said.

The majority of Springbrook National Park is expected to re-open from January 5.