One of the Sunshine Coast’s premier events has been cancelled because of the impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
The Mooloolaba Triathlon, which attracts more than 5000 competitors and usually injects more than $8.5 million into the local economy, was abandoned on Tuesday as the storm threatened to move closer to the coast.
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli said the event was “being rescheduled”.
“The permits have been suspended and council officers are working with the organisers to find a suitable date to reschedule the event,” she said.
“We know this is incredibly disappointing for the participants, for the spectators and for our community, but the safety of our people and all of the participants who might seek to travel here is what’s really important.
“So, this difficult decision has been made, because we need to keep everyone safe, and we know our community will understand that.”
The Mooloolaba Triathlon team confirmed the event will not take place as planned this weekend.
“The event team has been working with event stakeholders in relation to Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the potential impacts for this weekend’s Mooloolaba Triathlon,” a statement said,
“The safety of athletes, supporters, the community, volunteers and staff are first and foremost when making the decision to not hold the event this weekend, including the safety of travel to and from the event.
“The team is working closely with all stakeholders to secure a new event date and will communicate directly with athletes with further updates as soon as possible.
“This news will be disappointing to many however ensuring the safety of all involved in the event, and the local community, is top priority.”
