Gold Coast beaches reopen but lifeguards issue stern advice
Gold Coast beaches will all be open from today, but beachgoers have been given a stern warning from life guards.
It comes after several days of dangerous surf conditions and powerful swell, which tragically saw three people lose their lives.
The most recent was a Victorian man in his 30s, who went swimming on Saturday morning at Mermaid Beach.
He was pulled from the water by members of the public but despite desperate attempts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Related article: Tragedy as another man drowns in rough surf on Gold Coast
Most beaches north of Burleigh Heads were closed over the weekend, with conditions still too dangerous for swimmers.
This morning, all beaches are reopening, but swimmers are warned to be extra careful.
“Although the red & yellow flagged swimming areas will be patrolled by the City’s Lifeguards, ocean conditions are still unstable with the 1.5 m swell causing strong currents close to shore,” a Gold Coast City Council statement reads.
“Lifeguards are advising swimmers to stay in waist depth water close to shore between the flags.
“Clean 1.5m waves are providing great surfing conditions on the southern point breaks.
“Stronger southerly winds are predicted for today and tomorrow,” the statement reads.
