Surf Lakes secures development approval for tourism development at Yeppoon site

Wave lagoon developer Surf Lakes International Pty Ltd has received Development Approval from the Livingstone Shire Council for its current research and development site in Yeppoon to be expanded to allow public access and offer tourist accommodation.

With Queensland Government approval already granted, Surf Lakes International (SLI) can now expand its Capricorn Coast location with camping and glamping sites, cabins, a restaurant, a learn to surf lagoon, skate park, scuba pool and solar farm.

The first stage plan for the site will potentially see it become the first operational surf lake in the world, bringing SLI’s wave pool technology to the public in a commercial facility, offering breaks for all levels of competency at the same time.

In securing the DA, SLI advises that it “has worked with the local community over the past five years, building a connection with the residents who stand to benefit from economic growth, employment opportunities, and a boost in tourism that the envisaged development will bring to the area.

“This facility will also offer locals a place to enjoy healthy recreational hobbies that promote fitness, outdoor activity, and social interaction, while having fun with friends and family.”

As reported by the ABC, SLI founder and Chief Executive Aaron Trevis expects between 100,000 and 300,000 visitors annually to attraction park once it is up and running, which would make it one of the biggest tourism attractions in central Queensland.

Now approvals for first stage of the attraction are in place, Trevis and his team are looking at the feasibility of re-building the wave pool prototype versus upgrading it.

The prototype wave machine has already attracted rave reviews from pro surfers who have been testing the technology since 2018 - with 1999 ASP World champion Mark Occhilupo a backer of the project.

With a range of other surf lakes attractions also under development around the world, SLI points out that continues to secure licensees and partnerships to deliver a large network of its technology worldwide.

Trevis advised “our long-term aim has always been to take our wave making technology to the world, allowing people from all walks of life to be able to experience the joys of a surfing life in a safe environment.

“We hope the Yeppoon site can be one of, if not the first Surf Lake open to the public. The planning approval is a major milestone but there is still much work to do to make it a commercial reality.”

SLI has also reached an agreement with Tamarama Capital LLC for exclusivity in use of its technology in the Charleston, South Carolina, USA region.

With construction of this this Surf Lakes development planned to commence this year, commercial operations at this location are expected to commence in late 2023.

Images: The Surf Lakes lagoon at Yeppoon (top) and concept for part of the first stage development of the site (below).