The Gold Coast Pro, a key event on the World Surf League’s (WSL) Championship Tour, will relocate to Burleigh Heads after Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s destruction altered the famed Superbank at Snapper Rocks. The event, originally set for Snapper from May 3rd to 13th, will now take place at the nearby Burleigh Heads due to severe sand displacement caused by the cyclone.
In early March, Cyclone Alfred unleashed a powerful swell across Australia’s east coast, triggering a period of ideal surf conditions at locations like Kirra. However, the cyclone’s impact on the coastline has left severe damage. One of the hardest-hit areas is the Superbank, the iconic stretch of sand from Snapper Rocks to Kirra, known for producing some of the world’s best waves. The cyclone’s impact has created a deep trough where the waves usually break, significantly depleting the sand required for ideal surf conditions.
In a statement released today, the WSL detailed the current situation:
“The Superbank is renowned for producing long, flawless waves. However, after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred passed over the Gold Coast in March, it left behind a deep trough in place of the usual sandbar, leaving Snapper Rocks and its beach without enough sand to host the upcoming event. Although the Tweed Sand Bypass System typically restores sandbanks quickly, the widespread erosion along the Tweed Coast has limited the sand available for replenishment. As a result, it’s unlikely that the sand will return in time for the event,” the statement explained.
Burleigh Heads, known for its own high-quality right-hand pointbreak, will now serve as the event’s location. Despite the venue change, the event’s dates and Championship Tour schedule will remain unchanged.
“We recognize Snapper Rocks as one of the most perfect waves in the world, and making the decision to move the event was extremely difficult,” said Andrew Stark, WSL’s APAC President. “Our primary focus is to ensure world-class conditions for both athletes and fans, and given the current state of the bank at Snapper and the time constraints, we’re confident this is the best decision for the success of the 2025 Gold Coast CT. Fortunately, Burleigh Heads offers another world-class right-hand pointbreak, with a rich history of hosting elite surfing events. We’re grateful for the ongoing support from Experience Gold Coast and Tourism and Events Queensland in reaching this decision, and we look forward to returning to Snapper Rocks in 2026.”
The WSL is confident that the change will not only maintain the event’s prestige but also offer fans and surfers an exciting competition at another iconic surf location on the Gold Coast.
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