Pacific Airshow Gold Coast (PAGC) was today canceled because organisers believe the beach condition at Surfers Paradise will not be safe enough.
PAGC was scheduled for 15-17 August this year, with the crowd watching air displays from the sand in front of The Esplanade, which had been changed significantly by the impact of Cyclone Alfred in early March.
Despite initially being confident the show would go ahead after rehabilitation works, PAGC CEO Kevin Elliott today canceled the show because of the beach condition.
"I released a statement on 16 April 2025 regarding our work with local authorities to ensure beach rectification efforts were on track in the wake of Cyclone Alfred," Elliott said. "At the time of that statement our team had every confidence that the ongoing beach restoration efforts would have the sandy beach in Surfers Paradise in peak shape in time for this year’s event.
"Subsequent to putting Pacific Airshow Gold Coast on sale Southeast Queensland has experienced several king tides with massive accompanying swell. This ‘perfect storm’ of weather has caused additional and significant erosion to the Surfers Paradise foreshore, dashing our plans and creating new safety concerns.
"I take my responsibility to our PA family and the Gold Coast Community very seriously. I feel it is our obligation to deliver an experience that exceeds your expectations every time you attend.
"For this reason, and after considering all alternatives, I feel the decision to cancel this year’s event timely and decisively is the right one."
After assurances the beach would be in suitable condition, PAGC put tickets on sale in late April, almost immediately reporting strong interest. PAGC will contact those who have already bought tickets and advise them of refund options.
Elliott, however, is already looking forward to the 2026 event.
"Mark your calendars as Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will be back bigger, faster and louder, 14-16 August 2026 and we hope to see you all in attendance!"