14-02-2025
Warning over $806 fine as group spotted in 'careless' act at popular Aussie beach
A small detail in a photo taken this week at one of the country's most famous beaches has revealed the "careless" act that risks a $806 fine and poses a safety threat to other beachgoers, with authorities warning Aussies simply not to do it.
At first glance, the rolling waves crashing against Surfers Paradise beach on the Gold Coast look picturesque under a bright moon and clear night sky. However in the corner of the picture is the faint glow of a fire on the sand with a fe beachgoers nearby.
It is illegal to light a fire on any of the Gold Coast beaches — and many others across the country — with authorities saying the risk remains well after the flames have died down.
"Sand can trap heat for significant periods after a fire has been extinguished, posing risk to beachgoers walking barefoot," a City of Gold Coast council spokesperson told Yahoo News.
"Safety is our number one priority and lighting fires on the beaches poses several hazards to people and the environment."
The council urged Aussies to immediately report the behaviour snapped by the onlooker.
Rural firefighters along NSW's south coast reported an "increase" in beach fires over the Christmas break as many enjoyed coastal retreats. The temperature of the sand was recorded at an alarming 270°C hours after fires on the beach had been put out — and even after dumping buckets of water on it.
"The heat underground from a beach fire can remain for hours and kids or other beachgoers may inadvertently step in hot coals. Enjoy our coastline, but please don't light beach fires," the Tuross Head Rural Fire Brigade said last month.
After the photo of the Gold Coast fire was posted online this week, one person claimed they'd previously witnessed someone "screaming in pain for half an hour after stepping on hot sand the morning after a bonfire".
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