Aussies returning to GC

Life saving showpiece shared with Sunny Coast

THE Aussies will return to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast well into the future after the Queensland government secured a deal for surf life-surfing’s showpiece event.

As part of the Palaszczuk government’s Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan, eight editions of the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships will be shared between the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast between 2023 to 2032.

The 2022 event is due to be held in Perth.

Gold Coast has a long history of hosting an event that generates millions for local economies and brings in about 7000 competitors from more than 300 clubs across Australia.

Surf Life Saving Australia president John Baker hailed it as a win for Queensland.

“We are deeply grateful to our major sponsors in Tourism and Events Queensland who, without their support, an event the size of the Aussies simply can’t go ahead,” Mr Baker said.

“To be able to lock in eight editions of the Aussies, our membership will be looking forward to returning to the sunny beaches of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast in Queensland again.”

Gold Coast mayor Tom Tate said the Aussies would again be embraced.

“Our city is famous for its hospitality, amazing weather and golden sands so it is only fitting that the Aussies will be back again,” Cr Tate said.

“These titles boost our national reputation as a safe and welcoming host destination and will showcase everything great about the Goldie. Bring it on.”

Member for Gaven and Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said surf lifesaving was a big part of Gold Coast culture.

“The Gold Coast’s beaches and the culture surrounding them are famous worldwide,” Ms Scanlon said.

“Having the iconic Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships locked in for another decade is fantastic news for Gold Coast tourism operators and our reputation as the nation’s favourite beach holiday destination.”

Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Tourism and Events Queensland had secured the agreement in partnership with Major Events Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast Council.

“Surf lifesaving is as Queensland as our sandy beaches and has always had the strong support of the Palaszczuk government,” he said.