Cylinder hits the beach mark

The state’s peak authority on coastal and aquatic safety released its inaugural list of Queensland’s top beaches this week, marking the official start of summer, with Cylinder Beach taking out second place behind Kings Beach on the Sunshine Coast.

Palm Cove, in North Queensland, was ranked in third position, with Alma Bay, on Magnetic Island, The Strand, in Townsville, and Burleigh Heads, on the Gold Coast, rounding out the top six.

SLSQ chief operating officer George Hill said the organisation had considered a wide variety of factors when compiling the list and selecting the winning beaches.

“For us, obviously the safety of swimmers and beachgoers is our first and foremost priority, so we looked at how often beaches were patrolled and what services were offered, in addition to various other factors ranging from coastal conditions to Australian standard beach signage,” he said.

Mr Hill acknowledged the decision could potentially upset some beachgoers who favoured other spots along the coastline.

“There are so many great beaches up and down Queensland’s coastline, and trying to narrow it down to just one is always going to stir up a bit of debate,” he said.

“Everyone will have their own personal opinions, preferences and special beaches they like to go with their friends and family.

“It was a tough decision but, in a way, that was a good problem to have – it shows how many beautiful and quality beaches we have access to in Queensland.”