Australia’s Beach Cabana Clash: A Turf War on the Sand
Crowded Australian beach with cabana tents – Image created by ChatGPT with DALL-E by OpenAI
VOCABULARY LIST
Chockers (adjective) /ˈtʃɒkəz/: Extremely crowded or full.
Example: The beach was chockers with cabanas, making it hard to find a spot.Patch of sand (noun phrase) /pætʃ əv sænd/: A small area of beach where someone can sit or lie down.
Example: We finally found a patch of sand to lay our towels.Prime real estate (noun phrase) /praɪm ˈrɪəl əsˌteɪt/: A highly desirable or valuable area or location.
Example: Davina arrived early to secure the prime real estate on the beach.Not on (phrase) /nɒt ɒn/: Unacceptable or inappropriate behaviour.
Example: Leaving cabanas empty for hours is just not on.Rein in (phrasal verb) /reɪn ɪn/: To control or limit something.
Example: Some people suggest councils should rein in the number of cabanas on the beach.Hordes (noun) /hɔdz/: Large groups of people.
Example: The hordes of cabanas made the beach look like a campsite.Backlash (noun) /ˈbækˌlæʃ/: A strong negative reaction or protest.
Example: There was a huge backlash against exclusive beach clubs at Bondi.Plonk (verb) /plɒŋk/: To place something down casually or carelessly.
Example: People plonk their cabanas on the sand without considering others.Tip the scales (phrase) /tɪp ðə skeɪlz/: To cause a change or imbalance in a situation.
Example: Imposing restrictions might tip the scales against families who genuinely need cabanas.Fair go (noun phrase) /feə goʊ/: The Australian ideal of equal opportunity or fair treatment.
Example: Australians value a fair go, especially when it comes to public beaches.
ARTICLE
For years, Australia’s beaches have faced an unlikely invasion: cabanas. These large beach tents are taking over the sand, blocking ocean views, and frustrating beachgoers.
"It’s chockers, they’re everywhere," said Claire, a Sydneysider. For many Australians, a trip to the beach means a long drive, fighting for parking, and now, finding a patch of sand among the sea of polyester covers. Some cabanas are even left empty for hours, "reserving" prime spots for their owners.
The debate over cabanas has exploded this summer, with heated arguments on social media, TV talk shows, and even in Parliament. Critics say cabanas hog public space, making it hard for others to enjoy the beach. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it "not on," reminding Australians that beaches are shared spaces.
Sun Safety vs. Space
Supporters argue that cabanas are essential for sun safety in a country with high skin cancer rates. "We burn easily and want to avoid cancer," one person explained. Even the Cancer Council backs the trend. But critics claim many cabana users don’t even sit under them, and simple sun cream or a hat would suffice.
Others admit it’s about grabbing the best spot. TV presenter Davina Smith said she arrives early to claim her family’s "beach real estate." Lifeguards, however, warn that crowded cabana setups can make rescues difficult.
Cultural Tensions
The issue has stirred deeper feelings about Australian beach culture. Beaches are seen as equal spaces, free from class divides. "They’re a great equaliser," says researcher Ece Kaya. But some worry cabanas are symbolising exclusivity, preventing average families from enjoying the beach.
Historically, Australians have protested anything threatening their access to the beach. From the backlash against paid shark-net access in 1929 to rejecting an exclusive beach club at Bondi, Australians fiercely protect their coastline.
Finding a Balance
Some suggest solutions, like limiting cabana numbers or placing them in designated areas. "Set them up at the back of the beach," said Rowan Clark, a cabana equipment seller. Others believe in a more relaxed approach.
"You don’t want to get too precious," Claire said. "We just need to be considerate of each other."
SOURCE:
This article is based on: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpw2w8qd7klo
