TWEED COAST locals are organising a nomination to establish the Cabarita Beach/Bogangar-Hastings Point Surfing Reserve, and in a world first, nominate the first female chair.
A local steering committee has been formed with representatives from the local surfing, beach-going and coastal community.
Long-time community advocate and Griffith University coastal researcher, Dr Kerrie Foxwell-Norton (pictured above middle) will chair the committee and if the nomination is successful she will be the world’s first female chair of a Surfing Reserve.
“A surfing reserve sends a clear message that we respect and revere our surf and our coast,” Dr Foxwell-Norton said.
The title of ‘Surfing Reserve’ means national recognition of the environmental, sporting, cultural and heritage values of the area.
Founder and Patron of Surfing Reserves and co-author of ‘101 Best Australian Beaches’ Brad Farmer, a Tweed Coast resident, welcomed the nomination on behalf of the Board of National Surfing Reserves.
“Cabarita Beach/Bogangar has been recognised as one of Australia’s best beaches – and we look forward to working with the committee and the community on their nomination.
“With its iconic surf breaks and popularity, it is a worthy surfing reserve candidate,” Mr Farmer said.
There are currently 20 Surfing Reserves in Australia in five states.
The committee will arrange to meet local community groups and host a public meeting to discuss the proposal in the next few months.
Any enquiries can be directed to Kerrie FoxwellNorton at K.Foxwell@griffith.edu.au
