The Gold Coast City Council has issued a stern warning to beachgoers and surfers amidst the impending approach of Cyclone Alfred, threatening fines up to $16,000 for reckless behaviour. The category 2 cyclone, located off Queensland’s south-east coast, has prompted intense surf conditions and damaging winds, attracting numerous residents to the shoreline despite official beach closures and warnings against flash flooding.
While many Queenslanders are photographing the unfolding scene, surfers have defied closures to take to the water. Authorities have reported “close calls” and injuries linked to the dangerous conditions, with two individuals requiring hospital treatment due to incidents near the water’s edge and piers. In light of these incidents, authorities emphasise the importance of safety, urging the public to remain clear of coastal areas, as no image is worth risking one’s life.
A spokesperson for the Gold Coast City Council remarked, “Although the large waves may be exciting to witness, we need everyone to stay well away from coastal areas for your own safety.” The council’s warnings come as conditions are expected to further deteriorate, increasing the risk of accidents related to falls and surging tides. Agencies, including Surf Life Saving Queensland, have stressed that beach visitation is ill-advised and particularly risky for families with young children.
Current forecasts predict that Cyclone Alfred is moving slowly at 7 km/h towards the southeast coast, expected to make landfall early on Saturday between Noosa and Coolangatta. Located approximately 245 kilometres off Brisbane and 230 kilometres from the Gold Coast, the cyclone has already begun affecting areas from Double Island Point in Queensland to Grafton in New South Wales. Gusts of up to 95 km/h are anticipated, which officials warn could result in flooding and widespread disruption, urging residents to prepare and be cautious.
In a bid to enforce safety, police have been given additional powers under the disaster declaration and will be actively patrolling coastal areas to prevent dangerous behaviours. Residents are reminded that tragic consequences can result from disregarding safety advisories, and the risk to emergency services personnel is also a serious concern.
The repeated calls from authorities highlight the need for caution and respect for the forces of nature in these volatile conditions as Cyclone Alfred approaches.