AusLeisure

Construction of a surf wave pool could start as early as next year following Sunshine Coast Council’s planning approval for a new surf lagoon-based attraction for a site near the Glass House Mountains.

Surf Parks Australia has proposed building a state-of-the-art wave pool that would feature a central surf lagoon along with amenities, a wellness centre, F&B outlets, ocean and marine protection education, learn to surf classes and surf coaching.

The attraction, estimated to be set to cost $30 million, will be built on a 13 hectare block of former pineapple farmland to the western side of Bruce Highway stop, Moby Vic’s, at Glass House Mountains.

Advising that the approval represented a major planning milestone and was potentially a critical step towards the first major new tourism offering in the region in decades, Sunshine Coast Deputy Mayor and Divisional Councillor, Rick Baberowski commented “once completed, this surf park will attract a new range of visitors to our region, visitors who would most likely extend their length of stay and generate a substantial economic benefit

“These sorts of development are a significant sign of further confidence in the future of our region, which all helps to deliver new facilities and services to meet the needs of our communities.”

Surf Parks Australia lodged its application in December last year and Sunshine Coast Council’s Economic Resurgence Plan has helped fast-track this major hinterland development, boosting business confidence and providing much needed stimulus to the tourism sector.

Thanking the Council for the ongoing support throughout the development application and investment assistance program process, Surf Parks Australia Chief Executive, Craig Morrison stated “we strategically selected the Moby Vic’s location for this project due to its ease of access, proximity to both the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay regions as well as the added benefit of minimal disruption to our community and our local environment.

“The overall development will support the local building and construction industry as well as provide future employment for locals.”

As part of Queensland Government legislated approval process, a material change of use approval is required from council when a developer proposes a new use of a premises.

Artist’s concepts for the new attraction indicate it will use Endless Surf technology to generate its waves which is described as the “most versatile” wave pool technology.

Operators can offer left or right breaks for beginners right through to advanced surfers, with the ability to cater waves for barrels or airs.

The park would offer one-hour sessions with 50 surfers in the water at a time.

No information has been given on the project’s financial backing, with lack of money have been among hurdles that have thwarted past new attractions projects on the Sunshine Coast.

Widely publicised planes for the $450 million ACTVENTURE theme park project at Glenview appear to be currently stalled while, more than a decade ago, Village Roadshow explored, then cancelled plans to purchase and Aussie World and turn it into a major waterpark.

Currently, the Queensland Government is continuing its consideration for World Surf League and Consolidated Properties’ planned surf park at Coolum Beach.

Morrison also partnered with Good Bean Franchising Chief Executive Shane Hepburn to open Pavilion Mooloolaba earlier this year.

Images: Concepts for Surf Parks Australia’s new surf wave pool on the Sunshine Coast.

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