Gold Coast City Council respond to concerns over Burleigh foreshore being destroyed by surf competition
Burleigh Heads residents are devastated their iconic hill has been “destroyed” after a weekend surfing competition left the area a “mud bath”.
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Burleigh Heads residents are devastated their iconic hill has been “destroyed” after a surfing competition left the area a “mud bath”.
Residents said they witnessed their “beautiful grassed beachfront” turn into a “big mud pie” after the Australian Boardriders Battle was held on the headland over the weekend.
They say the grounds, which were already damp from a downpour, were then ripped up by heavy machinery which was used to pack up the event.
Local Cindy Amey described the aftermath as an “absolute mess”.
“All for two days of a surfing competition. I hope it was bloody well worth it,” she said.
“As if Burleigh isn’t a complete eyesore already, our beautiful suburb has been turned into a construction zone and parts of the town resemble Beirut scene with smashed windows and graffiti.
“Now our beautiful grassed beachfront has been destroyed and all the green grass is now a big mud pie just in time for the school holidays/Easter period.”
Other residents shared their concerns of how council would prepare for the 10-day Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro in May, due to start setting up next week.
A Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) spokesperson said officers would inspect the area and assess any damage to the park once the Australian Boardriders Battle organisers had finished packing down later this week.
“Event organisers are responsible for all costs associated with rectifying any damage as a result of the event, including grass restoration,” the spoksperson said
“Minor repairs will be conducted where possible prior to the World Surf League event beginning set up early next week.
“Full repairs will be conducted following the conclusion of the surf events.”
Ms Amey’s post to Facebook prompted a flood of supporters who were calling on local MP Hermann Vorster and area councillor Josh Martin to fix the issue.
“What can be done about this,” Catherine Goldsworthy said.
“An absolute disgrace that it has been left in this state.
“A once beautiful area enjoyed by families, especially over Easter, is now just a mud bath.”
Mr Vorster responded: “I’m getting to the bottom of this and will report back ASAP”.
While other residents had a more nonchalant attitude and said “pretty sure that’s grass and it will grow back”.
“Moan, moan, moan. The event was schedule for the weekend of the cyclone so obviously was postponed,” Leanne Chapman said.
“The organisers can’t control the weather. The grass grows back and the event was brilliant for Burleigh.”
Originally published as Gold Coast City Council respond to concerns over Burleigh foreshore being destroyed by surf competition
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