Police warn against idiotic cyclone behaviour
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred unleashes powerful storm surges and massive waves along Australia’s coastline, videos have emerged on social media showing people risking their lives for the perfect shot - despite repeated warnings from authorities to stay away from dangerous coastal areas.
Footage circulating online captures individuals walking along the shoreline, snapping pictures, and even getting knocked over by monstrous waves. Some videos have amassed hundreds of thousands of views, sparking widespread criticism.
One alarming incident occurred at Elephant Rock in Currumbin, where a group of people became trapped at a lookout after massive swells wiped out the road connecting them to the mainland. Viewers of the viral video condemned their reckless actions, with many questioning why they were out sightseeing during such treacherous conditions.
Authorities have also reported a missing jet skier on the Gold Coast, heightening concerns about public safety during the storm. Gold Coast Acting Chief Superintendent Peter Miles expressed his frustration over the situation.
“We all need to be a bit more smart about this and ensure that we don’t have any unneeded rescues or potentially worse where we’re looking at fatalities,” he said. “This isn’t a sunset where you can take a nice picture. You’re dealing with Mother Nature at her wildest.”
Acting Gold Coast Mayor Donna Gates has threatened fines of up to $16,100 for those ignoring safety warnings and engaging in reckless behaviour along the coast. “For all those people that are going down to the beach and standing on the rock walls or on the sand, please stay away,” Gates pleaded on Thursday afternoon.
“We’ve been in touch with police today. There’s been some really foolish behaviour, and it’s so important that people stay away from the beach.
“We have been declared a disaster zone, which enables police to take action, and anyone performing a reckless action can actually be fined up to $16,100.”
She went on to stress the importance of spreading the message widely, hoping to deter further risky actions: “It’s really in an effort to keep people who are a bit stupid, safe. We need to tell them over and over again, stay out of the water. It’s dangerous.”
Her concerns were echoed by Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg, who urged residents to avoid becoming “environmental tourists” during the storm.
“Don’t put others in danger because you want to become an environmental tourist or take some of these selfies and put yourself in harm’s way,” he said in a press conference alongside NSW Premier Chris Minns. “Heed the warnings, stay at home and protect your loved ones, and please stay safe.”
Image: TikTok