Surf stars and more unite to oppose Kirra cruise terminal
THE Save Our Southern Beaches Alliance will be launched at North Kirra Bilinga on Friday to oppose the proposed Leda Holdings $2 billion Gold Coast Ocean Terminal at Kirra.
A line-up of guest speakers will be headed by world surfing champion Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew.
Spokesman for alliance and long-time Daily News surf columnist Andrew McKinnon said the organisation wasn't opposed to development in the right area with compatible environmental benefits.
"We would prefer to see Brisbane be the major destination for a cruise ship terminal that can still access the Gold Coast without an unnecessary impact to locals, their environment and the quintessential Gold Coast way of life," he said.
Starting at 9am (Qld) at Joe Doringer Park, North Kirra, engineer John Standing will also speak against the project, along with marine scientist Deborah Duncan, businessman and community leader Jim Wilson and local businesswoman Diane Spence
The alliance will join this Sunday's Save Our Spit Rally to support Northern opposition to the Broadwater Seaway CST proposal.
"We welcome debate and the real facts about the impact of a cruise ship terminal at North Kirra Bilinga," Mr McKinnon said.
"SOSBA maintains the Gold Coast's greatest assets lay within the magnificent beaches, world-class surf and pristine coastline that is a much valued public amenity.
"We are prepared to oppose the proposal of foreshore development such as North Kirra Bilinga and argue the case against the impracticality of the location and a development fraught with all types of environmental, visual and social risks.
"Let's improve the existing services, maintain business and enhance the attractions of the southern Gold Coast with its Tweed cauldron backdrop, without displacing its character.
"Don't destroy what you came to enjoy."
There was no response from Leda Holdings by the time of publication.
