Move just for safety

OFFICIALS will err on the side of caution by moving women’s, surfboat and most of the teenage competitions at the Australian championships 20km south to safer waters at North Kirra.

The decision has been backed by former world and Australian champion turned lifesaving coach Naomi Flood who says she was worried about the safety of some of the less experienced competitors in rough and windy conditions at Broadbeach.

Broadbeach is close to Kurrawa where three teenager competitors have died in competition in the past.

This is the first event held near the venue since the death of 14-year-old Matthew Barclay in 2012.

“It’s a safety issue and important we do the right thing,’’ said Flood, who is coach of the Northcliffe women’s surf team.

Flood was consulted by officials about the move south.