Australian developers identify site for Gold Coast surf park

Having tested their technology on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast, Surf Lakes International have reportedly identified a site on the Gold Coast at which they will operate a world-first artificial surfing lake as a commercial attraction.

Newly appointed Surf Lakes Chief Executive Mal Borgeaud says that given the company is headquartered in the Gold Coast town of Robina, they have been in constant dialogue with local and state government officials with the aim of setting up a park in the area.

He says that after scouring the Gold Coast for suitable land, Surf Lakes selected an appropriate site that is centrally located and easily accessible for residents and tourists.

Envisioning the facility, Borgeaud explained “as a company we are tremendously excited to be announcing our commitment to building a facility on the Gold Coast. We have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement we have received from both council and the Queensland Government.

“It makes sense, with the Gold Coast being our home town, that we construct a commercial facility here. We know the facility will bring tremendous benefits to the community, not just by providing waves and surf-oriented fun – it will be a boost for employment, tourism and the local economy.”

He says their aim is to make the site a genuine showpiece not only for their technology but for the Gold Coast as well.

Surf Lakes’ prototype surfing lake, located near Mount Jim Crow, inland from the coastal town of Yeppoon, is capable of producing up to 2,400 waves per hour with waves up to 2.4 metres.

The technology is based on concentric waves generated by a gigantic plunger at the centre of the lake.

They expect construction to begin at their Gold Coast site later this year or early 2020 with a view to opening in the second half of 2020.

Images: Mark Occhilupo test the prototype Surf Lakes facility at Yeppoon (top) and its concept at the heart of a resort (below).