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Early birds roasted for reserving prime spots at Safety Beach during heatwave

An “entitled” and “unAustralian” act on a popular beach has divided the Mornington Peninsula.

By early afternoon the Safety Beach space savers have returned to claim their pole positions on the sand. Picture: Supplied
By early afternoon the Safety Beach space savers have returned to claim their pole positions on the sand. Picture: Supplied

A cool cabana “land grab” on the Mornington Peninsula has beachgoers all fired up.

The must-have beach accessory is now being used — along with tents and more traditional umbrellas — to reserve prime spots on the sand at Safety Beach.

Early birds flocked to the narrow strip of sand on the weekend to mark their territory with cabanas, chair and towels before leaving to return at their leisure.

The act promoted furious debate online, as locals argued whether the move was selfish or simply smart.

Beachgoers are copping heat for saving spots at Safety Beach. Picture: supplied
Beachgoers are copping heat for saving spots at Safety Beach. Picture: supplied

One man labelled the move “unAustralian”, after shocked beachgoers found the empty “gazebo embassy”.

“I’m not a fan of this marking your territory then leaving,” an early morning walker posted.

“It’s plain rude, entitled city people taking over,” another local said.

Others suggested “enjoying the facilities” until the owners arrived to claim their spot.

One man even cheekily offered to rent out his spot.

Even Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has piped up, saying the best thing about Australian beaches is that they’re free and bagsing a spot goes against this ethos.

This spot at Safety Beach is jokingly being offered for rent. Picture: supplied
This spot at Safety Beach is jokingly being offered for rent. Picture: supplied

Not everyone was bothered by the beach hack.

“Absolutely nothing wrong with setting up items early. All over the world the same thing happens,” one beachgoer posted.

“Stop being a Karen!,” another said.

Mornington Peninsula mayor Anthony Marsh said it was great to see so many visitors enjoying the region’s beautiful beaches and supporting local traders.

“Have a great time, but be safe, respect those around you and remember to take your rubbish home,” he said.

Mr Marsh urged all beachgoers to prioritise safety following deaths on the water at Balnarring, Rye and Gunnamatta and a serious collision between a jet ski and boat at Safety Beach.

“A day at the beach should not end in tragedy,” he said.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/south-east/early-birds-roasted-for-reserving-prime-spots-at-safety-beach-during-heatwave/news-story/19641393421ec804d063dc1a8a72f33f