Event Update

Hey gang,

Like everyone, we’re watching the forecast closely for this weekend.  There is currently a strong swell hitting all Gold Coast beaches and coastal bars and this is unlikely to change much before event day.

Fortunately, the strong winds are set to ease, so we expect swimming conditions to improve significantly along the coast.

At this stage, our greatest consideration leading into Saturday is the ability of each Skipper to participate safely.  There will still be a strong Easterly swell and this may produce potentially hazardous conditions on all coastal bars. 

Based on current conditions and the forecast, we feel it will be extremely challenging for inexperienced Skippers, this includes those that are unfamiliar with local conditions.  We urge every Skipper to evaluate their own ability and discuss scenarios with their swimmers now, that may prevent them from participating.

Our partners, Maritime Safety QLD, will provide further direction for Skippers at our Safety Briefings on Thursday and Friday evenings.

Contingency Finish

Based on current conditions and the forecast for Saturday, conditions at Surfers Paradise will not be suitable to offer a beach finish as planned.

The decision has now been made to use our Contingency Finish (offshore).  Please read our Event Handbook which provides basic directions for this.  We will provide more information on this at our Safety Briefings on Thursday & Friday evening.

Solo swimmers - you will need to make arrangements with your Skipper to have a change of clothes and personal belongings onboard when you complete your offshore finish.  Your baggage will be transported back to Surfers Paradise by event staff for you to collect when you return.

Our Event Shuttle will run continuously from Seaworld Drive Boat Ramp to Surfers Paradise Surf Club from 12pm - 5pm.

View Handbook: https://worldseriesswims.com.au/swim-the-gold-coast-event-handbook/

Further Updates

We will also continue to assess conditions for our Start Lane at Coolangatta Beach.  Kirra Beach is our Contingency Start location and this may be necessary.  This will be determined before the Friday evening Safety Briefings.

We'll be posting further updates on our website 'Event Updates' page and also our Swim the Gold Coast Facebook page - please check both for regular updates.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SwimtheGoldCoast

Team WSS