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Water Fun

5 Waves

Gold Coast company manufactures the perfect wave in Yeppoon.

We Gold Coasters are a clever bunch, if we do say so ourselves. Some of us moreso than others it would seem. We’re talking (writing), of course, about the good folks at local company Surf Lakes Holding Ltd.

They’re inventors and they’ve invented something absolutely next-level (how’s the suspense) for all of us water-loving types to froth on.

Surprise, it’s a really quite intricate contraption pumping out perfect waves, in a lake in the middle of Queensland’s Yeppoon no less.

Yes indeed. The technology, named 5 Waves, has been constructed at a private demonstration facility by a team of Gold Coast local legends whose job it is to make surfers worldwide even more stoked than they were before. Difficult, but seems they’ve nailed it.

As you could probably tell, the technology will boast five levels of waves simultaneously and they’ll all peel off around a manmade lake. The perfect waves have begun to roll out and pros like Joel Parkinson and Mark Occhilupo have given the goods their tick of approval.

The 5 Waves concept allows for learners, experienced surfers and, of course, the pros to surf perfect waves, all at the same time. It’s a pure feat of genius is what it is.

In the very simplest of terms, based on what we’ve seen, the machine moves up and as it comes down it pushes water out into the lake and, through some sort of engineering magic, creates perfectly shaped waves, but also different types at the same time.

Engineers hey. Clever.

At full capacity, 5 Waves can create 2,400 waves per hour (!) which equates to up to 200 surfers and is pretty much the greatest thing any surfer has ever heard. Maybe not, but close.

Not only short boards though, the intermediate wave will be perfect for long boards, SUPs and surf skis, meaning everyone will get the chance to give 5 Waves a go.

The project will boast the most waves in a wavepool with 10 separate waves (four left and four right reef breaks plus two beginner waves for those playing at home) and, at 80 megalitres, it’s set to be the largest surfing lagoon in the world.

It’s an exciting time not only for Queenslanders but people across the world who will no doubt be keen to experience the perfect peaks for themselves.

Surf Lakes Holdings also plan to license the technology so expect to see more of these local creations popping up all over the place.

It’s pretty much pure magic as far as we’re concerned and our little beginner surfing selves can’t wait to get out there and give it a go.

Good work guys, doing the Gold Coast proud.

 

Words by Kirra Smith

Walkin On Water

Wet’n’Wild

5 secret Gold Coast swimming spots

Cougal Cascades (image supplied)
Cougal Cascades (image supplied)

While everybody knows Gold Coast beaches are some of the most beautiful on Earth, finding a car park on the weekend is a nightmare equivalent to your fave cafe running out of Almond Croissants.

It’s quite the conundrum because sometimes you’re just hanging to be immersed in water. SURPRISE, we’ve got a solution. Here are five (soon to be not-so) secret local swimming spots that’ll solve all of your hankering for breaking out those ‘kini’s.

Cougal Cascades
This one is so secret even we (knowers of all) hadn’t heard of it until now. Found underneath the towering peaks of Mount Cougal, the cascades are serenity in a swimming spot. Think creeks that flow into rock pools and cool, freshwater that’ll soothe even the saltiest of souls.
Where: The end of Currumbin Valley Road

Twin Falls, Springbrook (Image from Destination Gold Coast)
Twin Falls, Springbrook (Image from Destination Gold Coast)

Twin Falls
Two good things are always better than one good thing (profound yes). Which is great because TWIN Falls guys. A short little (4km) circuit will take you through the national park, behind the waterfalls and through some rock caves before you’ll feel the need to strip off for a dip. It’s a feast for both the eyes and your heat-affected, cool water-craving skin.
Where: At the Natural Bridge via the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road car park

Araluen Swimming Hole
The biggest secret since Cougal Cascades, Araluen is a Tallebudgera locals’ favourite and one they probably wish we didn’t mention. But, since sharing is caring, here it is on the list. It’s a fresh water hole and it’s pretty much the epitome of Gold Coast fun. Take a picnic and your best fun-loving attitude.
Where: Close to the corner of Araluen Road and Tallebudgera Creek Road

Snapper Rocks (image via Unsplash)
Snapper Rocks (image via Unsplash)

Snapper Rocks
While Snapper Rocks is perhaps a little less secret than some spots, it’s no less golden. A small man-made tidal pool gives you a gorgeous view over the ocean below. Snapper Rock is perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Where: Coolangatta

Elabana Falls on Box Forest Circuit
Lamington National Park is the local legend that keeps on giving. It’s a bit of a trek to get there but on the brightside, you’ll have earned your swim and there are plenty of Insta-worthy spots to stop for a snap. The water is clear and the vibes are chill, pack your walking shoes!
Where: Start at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

Please take care when swimming at any of these spots. Inside Gold Coast encourages safe practises and there is inherent risk swimming in areas that aren’t patrolled.

Words by Carly Snodgrass.

Elabana Falls in Lamington National Park (Image: Destination Gold Coast)
Elabana Falls in Lamington National Park (Image: Destination Gold Coast)
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