Sunshine Coast Council flags need to stay safe while enjoying beach and park highlights

Sunshine Coast residents and visitors will be spoiled for choice with plenty of places to see and things to do these holidays, with hundreds of beaches, parks and playgrounds to experience in the local government area.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Beaches and Parks directory features detailed information of its more than 300 barbecues, 220 beach access points, 35 dog exercise areas (fenced and unfenced), seven community gardens, 1145 parks and 350 playgrounds.

Highlights include the newly patrolled Bokarina Beach and upgraded Russell Family Park in Montville.

Encouraging people to have fun but to remember to stay safe, Sunshine Coast Council Manager Sport and Community Venues, Grantley Switzer stated “we understand at this time of the year people want to unwind and relax, but please remember to carry out social distancing, maintain good hygiene such as regular hand washing and wiping down equipment after use, and please stay home if you’re unwell.

“If a place is too crowded, luckily we have plenty of other prime spots for people to enjoy.

“Sunshine Coast Council has provided a one-stop shop webpage providing all the information you need to be prepared and to take care for a safe summer on our Sunshine Coast.

“Visit (our website) for Council’s beaches and parks directory, patrolled beach locations, pet-friendly areas and dog off-leash areas, parking and transport tips, activities and much more.

“Our lifeguards performed 389 rescues, 4806 first aid treatments and provided 262,018 warnings to more than seven million visitors to our beaches last year. Let’s do them a favour and try to lower those statistics.”

Surf Life Saving Queensland Regional Manager Aaron Purchase reminded beachgoers to only swim between the red and yellow flags, adding “it’s just not worth risking your life or others by swimming outside the red and yellow flags this summer.

“Before you enter the ocean, take a moment to think about your loved ones and how devastated they would be if you got caught in a rip and help was not nearby.

“Our friendly lifeguards and lifesavers are here to help, so if you’re unsure please go and see one of them at any of our patrolled beaches.”

For more information go to www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/summer

Images: Kings Beach, Caloudra (top) and Mooloolaba Beach (below).