Surf club passes first test

PLANS for a multimillion-dollar new Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club branch have cleared their first hurdle, with the Federal Environment Department declaring they are not a controlled action.

The department found the new clubhouse, on state land in Doug Evans Reserve at Narrowneck, did not need approval as there was no significant risk to the environment.

Surf club president Trevor Hendy said the existing Cavill Ave clubhouse would remain their main entertainment venue, while the new “north branch” would focus on surf sports and education.

“We see ourselves not only as a club that looks after the community through beach safety but also as guardians of the natural environment,” he said. “Although the federal environment regulator has confirmed we will not impact the environment, we remain committed to undertaking a number of environmental enhancements to ensure we improve the area.

“Less than eight per cent of the trees will be disturbed, and any that are would be relocated a few metres to the north or south.”

Former ironman Hendy is seeking private sector support to build the project, and has enlisted help from the site’s billionaire neighbours Aquis.

The Hong Kong-based developer has volunteered staff time to help the club prepare their plans and has not ruled out financial backing in future.

Mr Hendy said the proposal ensured an overall ‘net gain’ of the existing plants and wildlife in the area.

“We would do that by planting more of the same trees that currently exist in site, and potentially propagating another 1100 tube stock of trees which could be donated to other parts of the Gold Coast,” he said.