Gold Coast residents may notice a few empty pedestals around the city as the iconic blue koala Borobi takes a temporary break for a much-needed health check.
The City of Gold Coast is inspecting all eight Borobi statues located across the city after years of exposure to the region’s sun, surf and sea breeze.
Mayor Tom Tate said the checks were important to ensure the much-loved sculptures remained safe for both Borobi and the community.
“Our Borobis have been standing strong for years but even icons need a little TLC,” Mayor Tate said.
One statue has already been removed from Broadbeach after becoming unstable, while two others from Surfers Paradise have also been taken away for inspection ahead of the Pacific Airshow.
The remaining statues will be removed and checked over the coming weeks.
The health checks are designed to identify any maintenance or repairs required after years on display in the Gold Coast’s coastal environment.
Borobi became an instantly recognisable symbol of the Gold Coast after being selected as the official mascot of the 2018 Commonwealth Games and has remained a popular feature around the city.
While the temporary absences may leave some empty spots around the Gold Coast, the City says the statues will return once their inspections and any necessary maintenance are complete.
For now, residents and visitors can expect to see a little less blue koala around town as Borobi gets some well-earned attention.
Image source: goldcoast.qld.gov.au