Sail Paradise 2011 has been abandoned due to the flood tragedy in Queensland’s south east and persistent extreme weather, Southport Yacht Club decided this afternoon.
While the tragedy that is unfolding just north of the Gold Coast has in itself justified the decision, many competitors have had to rush back to Brisbane and surrounding regions to protect their families and property as floodwaters continue to rise.
The regatta committee announced the abandonment of the sailing series after consulting with sponsors and competitors, all of whom were 100 per cent in support of the decision.
At the same time those competitors remaining on the Gold Coast were gathering at SYC this afternoon to be part of a fundraising event planned to support flood victims.
Southport Yacht Club Commodore Rob Mundle said; 'the magnitude of the tragedy that is occurring in the region far outweighs any desire we have to stage Sail Paradise.
'The thoughts of the club and competitors are with everyone who is being confronted with this natural disaster of incredible proportions.
'We appreciate the support and understanding we have received from our sponsors and competitors in making this decision.
'The conditions we are seeing are exceptional and as regatta organisers we take our responsibility to the competitors and the community very seriously,' the Commodore added.
Apart from torrential rain, a strong wind warning for waters off the Gold Coast remains in place. The wind is gusting to 30 knots off Main Beach and the seas are in excess of 3m, making the Seaway impassable.
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