A teenager on the Gold Coast had a narrow escape after becoming trapped in a collapsing sandbank at Broadbeach, following the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. This incident highlights the risks associated with unstable cliffs and eroded beaches. The boy and his friend were playing and digging a hole when the sandbank caved in, completely burying him.
Quickly realising the urgency of the situation, the boy’s friend raised the alarm, which led to a rapid rescue effort involving beachgoers and a lifeguard. Witness Kobi Uys described the chaotic scene as they scrambled to free the boy, while another witness, Ari Hunt, conveyed the difficulty of locating him amidst the sand. The group began digging and soon found the boy’s feet, which were kicking desperately.
Fortunately, the teenager was extracted from the sand within minutes, shaken but uninjured. Chief Lifeguard Will Ashley later confirmed the boy was perfectly fine and even went for a swim after the incident, leaving the beach without any injuries.
In light of this event, Ashley urged beach visitors to exercise caution by steering clear of cliffs and refraining from digging in sandy areas. He emphasised that such places can be dangerous, warning that collapses can occur whether one is at the top or beneath the sand, particularly while digging. Lifeguards strongly recommend avoiding unstable areas to prevent similar incidents.
This episode serves as an important reminder of the potential dangers present at beaches, particularly after severe weather events like cyclone remnants.