Revamped Our Beaches program calls for community input

A new-look coastal education program will encourage residents to get their hands sandy, learn about dunes and get involved in keeping Gold Coast beaches pristine.

The ‘Our Beaches’ program will initially focus on dune planting and school holiday activities including microplastics workshops and coastal critters presentations, with a launch event at Kurrawa Beach this Saturday.  

Mayor Tom Tate said recent Our Beaches survey results had reiterated the importance of healthy and clean beaches to the community. 

“We know how much locals love their beaches and we’re committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy a beach experience,” he said. 

“We’ve reviewed the way we deliver our coastal engagement program and the Our Beaches engagement program will continue to provide an opportunity for the community to be actively involved with planting native vegetation in the dunes. 

We’ll also be expanding the program to engage with our community in new ways that reflect how we enjoy our beaches.

“We’re encouraging Gold Coasters to come down to the community event and provide feedback on further initiatives they would like implemented as part of the 2021 program.

 “We want to build a program for the community, by the community,” he said. 

Visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/ourbeaches for information on the program.

Our Beaches launch event details

What: Dune planting and Microplastics at Kurrawa beach 

When: Saturday 12 December

Time: 8am – 10am

Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach 

2020 ‘Our Beaches’ Survey results

• Top three beaches visited on the Gold Coast: Burleigh, Currumbin and The Spit.

• Top three activities for Gold Coast beaches: swimming, walking/running and relaxing on the beach.

• 94 per cent of respondents said they strongly agree or agree that there are sandy beaches with sufficient width for walking, playing and relaxing.

• 90 per cent of respondents said they strongly agree or agree that their visit to the beach is enjoyable and safe.

• 88 per cent of respondents said they strongly agree or agree that there are sufficient locations to swim at patrolled beaches.