Discover the cheeky Aussie complaint about a controversial beach item that's causing a stir

The Australian beach scene is as iconic as kangaroos and Vegemite, but a new trend is causing quite a stir among sun-seekers. The CoolCabana, a modern twist on the classic beach umbrella, has become a staple for many beachgoers looking to escape the harsh Aussie sun. However, not everyone is thrilled with these popular sun shades, and a recent cheeky gripe has sparked a nationwide debate: should there be a limit to beach real estate?


The controversy was ignited by an Australian beachgoer, Charl, who took to social media to vent her frustration. She found herself surrounded by a 'sea of CoolCabanas,' leaving little room for others to enjoy the sand and surf. Charl's experience is not unique; as the popularity of these cabanas grows, so does their footprint on our beloved beaches. 'It's gone unchecked for too long now,' she stated, suggesting that groups of less than four people 'shouldn't be allowed to have one.'


1735801687793.png
Concerns were raised about CoolCabanas crowding the beach. Credit: @charlllmck / TikTok


The debate has divided the beach-loving community. While some sympathize with Charl's plight, others have come to the defence of the CoolCabana. There are numerous benefits to having a personal shaded area at the beach, especially in a country known for its intense UV rays. 'How dare people seek shade in the blistering Australian sun. Unforgivable,' one person sarcastically commented, highlighting the necessity of sun protection.


Indeed, the importance of shade cannot be overstated, especially when considering the health implications. Anne Cust, Chair of the Cancer Council's National Skin Cancer Committee, has emphasized the need for adequate sun protection, advising beachgoers to use 'trees, built shade structures, or bring your own gazebo or umbrella with a high UPF designed to offer sun protection.' CoolCabanas, which provides UPF 50+ protection, is a reliable option for many.

However, the issue isn't just about sun safety. It's also about courtesy and the shared use of public spaces. As beaches become more crowded, the question arises: how can we balance the need for personal comfort with the collective enjoyment of our natural landscapes?

Some concerns have also been raised about whether these structures could obstruct the view for lifeguards, potentially compromising beach safety. However, Adam Weir, CEO of Surf Life Saving Australia, has assured that this is not an issue. Lifeguards are trained to adapt their surveillance techniques, moving around the beach as necessary to ensure the safety of all beachgoers.


So, where does this leave us in the great CoolCabana debate? It seems that while there is no easy answer, the conversation has opened up a dialogue about beach etiquette and the responsible use of shared spaces. Perhaps it's time for local councils to consider guidelines on the placement and number of personal shade structures on public beaches to ensure that everyone can enjoy the sand and surf without feeling crowded out.


Credit: TikTok

Key Takeaways

  • An Australian beachgoer has raised concerns over the increasing number of CoolCabanas on the beach, claiming they take up too much space.
  • The person shared their frustrations online, suggesting that groups of less than four people should not be allowed a CoolCabana.
  • The debate has triggered a mix of support and backlash, with some defending the need for shade at the beach.
  • Experts and officials, including representatives from the Cancer Council and Surf Life Saving Australia, stress the importance of shade and confirm that cabanas do not obstruct lifeguards' views if managed properly.
Members, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this hot topic. Have you encountered a sea of cabanas on your beach visits? Do you think there should be regulations in place, or is it simply a matter of personal responsibility and common courtesy? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below – let's dive into this debate together!
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: BJM

Seniors Discount Club

Sponsored content

Info
Loading data . . .
I think cabanas are great for shade.

A lot of beaches do not have trees or any type of shade.

Families should enjoy the beach without others complaining.

If you don’t like it leave.

I visit a beach where there are lifeguards and I have never seen anyone obstruct their vision.

Going to beach, free activity. Great to see all ages swimming, playing in the sand and relaxing.

Enjoy life don’t whinge !!!!
 
as a kid , most had an umbrella or tent/shade. We actually used less space had we not had one. It meant we could spend the day. A cooler with ice and drinks and foods, towels, etc all fitted in the space. My mum was the only one to lay directly in the sun- we all stayed shaded. It wasn't like there wasn't some space between each or no room to move around and between. Actually easier to get around in a lot of cases than people laying on towels.
 
  • Like
Reactions: magpie1
With the high levels of UV radiation in our Country I think that these Cabanas are a great choice for the beach....especially but not just for young children to escape the sun if they are having a family day at the beach. We all know the downfalls of excessive sun exposure, so anything that may help mitigate that seems a good thing. The only thing that they seem to be missing is an extra relocatable side wall that will stop the sun from encroaching under the cabana as the sun moves across the sky during the day. I can see that they will become more popular on our beaches in the future and just how much that impacts on those that dislike them we will just have to wait and see what local councils might say if the outcry becomes intolerable. SLIP SLOP SLAP and now SHADE yourselves at the beach. :unsure:
 
Now that these Cabanas are available I think it is appropriate for them to be used to their fullest extent. I remember my beach days when everyone had a large beach brolly and it was unthinkable to complain about those shading themselves
 
  • Like
Reactions: magpie1
Now that these Cabanas are available I think it is appropriate for them to be used to their fullest extent. I remember my beach days when everyone had a large beach brolly and it was unthinkable to complain about those shading themselves
Cartwheeling beach umbrellas in a high wind is such a sight to behold!

But it's OK to impale someone with such an uncontrollable weapon....

Yeah sure....
 
  • Like
Reactions: magpie1
In the 1960s, 70s and 80s, Sydney beaches resembled a beach umbrella "plantation".

One big gust of wind and havoc would ensue, with hundreds of umbrellas on a death wish!
Yep when those strong winds came along it became hell on earth alright....all of those pointed umbrella shafts flying through the air at high speed... it was like something from a battle in the middle ages.:unsure:🙄🫣😲🤕⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×