Maroochydore Becomes A Lifesaving Mecca

THERE is a palpable excitement in the air in Maroochydore, the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships are here!

This event is the pinnacle of the surf lifesaving calendar and it has been 37 years since the affectionately known ‘Aussies’ were held on the Sunshine Coast. With the return of this event in 2016, we welcome more than 7000 competitors from 313 surf clubs across Australia who are set to compete in more than 400 events.

“This is the singular biggest event the Sunshine Coast has ever hosted,” Division Eight councillor and Tourism, Sport and Major Events portfolio holder Jason O’Pray said. The Sunshine Coast Council has predicted an economic injection of $20 million to the region, likening the event to the always popular Christmas period.

22,500 people are expected to flock to the Coast over the course of the event from Saturday 16 April – Sunday 24 April. With nine days of action packed fun from Mooloolaba to Coolum there are activities on offer for not only the competitors but also the general public:

• A free shuttle bus will be available to transfer spectators from the Mari St carpark to all points of the championships from Maroochydore to Mooloolaba.
• Free activities and entertainment will kick off every day from 7.30am with a live broadcast by Sea and Mix FM.
• Silent disco tent to dance the day away.
• An outdoor chill zone to sit back and watch the competition.
• An 80’s-themed photo booth.
• The opportunity to meet all the legendary surf sports stars from the 1980’s to now.
• The Aussie Ocean Swim on Sunday, April 17, is open to all swimmers over the age of 16 for $40. The two (2) kilometre swim starts at Mooloolaba Beach and gives the public a chance to be a part of the iconic Aussies festival.
• By night the festival will move from the beach to Beach Parade for a variety of live entertainment and events.

Ray White Maroochydore director, Dan Sowden, recognises this is the best time to sell the enviable Sunshine Coast lifestyle to visitors “We can’t wait to showcase the best of Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast as a whole, including the very best property available to purchase.”