The World Surf League (WSL) has announced a significant change to the upcoming Gold Coast Pro, relocating the event from the iconic Snapper Rocks to Burleigh Heads due to severe damage caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The decision comes as the famed Superbank, known for its perfect waves, is currently unsuitable for competition.
Key Takeaways
- The Gold Coast Pro will now take place at Burleigh Heads from May 3 to 13, 2025.
- Snapper Rocks was deemed unfit for competition due to cyclone-related erosion.
- The WSL aims to ensure world-class conditions for athletes and fans.
- Burleigh Heads is recognized as another premier surfing location with a rich history.
Impact of Cyclone Alfred
In early March, ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred wreaked havoc along the Gold Coast, leaving a deep trough at Snapper Rocks where the waves typically break. This erosion has significantly altered the bathymetry of the area, making it impossible for the sandbanks to recover in time for the event.
The WSL’s decision to move the event was not taken lightly. Andrew Stark, WSL APAC President, emphasized the importance of providing optimal conditions for both surfers and spectators. He stated, "Snapper Rocks is one of the most perfect waves in the world, and this was an extremely difficult decision to shift locations."
Why Burleigh Heads?
Burleigh Heads, located just a few kilometers north of Snapper Rocks, is renowned for its own world-class right-hand point break. The area has a storied history in competitive surfing, having hosted numerous elite events since the 1970s.
- Burleigh’s Features:
- Three Main Sections: Sharkies, The Cove, and The Point, each offering unique wave conditions.
- Rich History: Known for hosting the first man-on-man heats during the Stubbies Surf Classic in 1977.
- Community Support: Local tourism officials are optimistic about the event, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase Burleigh’s surfing culture.
Looking Ahead
Despite the disappointment of not being able to host the Gold Coast Pro at Snapper Rocks, the WSL is committed to returning to the iconic venue in 2026. Plans are already underway to ensure the Superbank is restored to its former glory.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn expressed optimism about the relocation, stating, "For surfing fans, the relocation of the Gold Coast Pro to Burleigh provides a unique and very special opportunity to watch the world’s leading surfers do battle at one of the world’s most iconic surfing destinations steeped in history."
Conclusion
The Gold Coast Pro is set to run from May 3 to 13, 2025, at Burleigh Heads, with the WSL remaining hopeful for favorable conditions. While Snapper Rocks will be missed this year, the surfing community looks forward to the event’s return to its rightful home in the future.
As the surfing world prepares for this change, all eyes will be on Burleigh Heads to see how it measures up to the legendary Snapper Rocks.
Sources
- Breaking: World Surf League abandons Australia’s famed Snapper Rocks as sixth tour stop in earth-shattering
announcement, BeachGrit. - World Surf League’s Gold Coast Pro Moving From Snapper Rocks to Burleigh Heads, Yahoo.
- Gold Coast storm damage means surfing event will move, inkl.
- Australia’s Best Wave Destroyed; Surf Contest Forced to Move, SURFER Magazine.
- WSL Concedes To Sand Gods: "Snapper’s Out, Burleigh’s In", Stab Mag.
