When it comes to Australian summers, there’s nothing quite like a day at the beach. The sun, the surf, and the sand are quintessential parts of the Aussie lifestyle. But as we all know, with the summer sun comes the need for shade, and this is where Bunnings has stepped in with a product that’s causing quite a stir.
Bunnings has recently expanded its horizons beyond the garden shed and DIY projects, launching a summer range that includes a beach cabana priced at $65. This 2.4-metre beach accessory is part of a collection that also features beach chairs, umbrellas, and tents. While Bunnings isn’t the first to offer such a product—with ALDI and Kmart having previously released their own versions—the Bunnings cabana has become a hot topic on social media and beyond.
The cabana trend has been divisive, to say the least. On one hand, beachgoers are excited about the new range. Social media comments range from eager anticipation ‘Ohhhh definitely need to check these out’ to testimonials of their prevalence ‘Yes all over my local beach this summer’. Some are even looking forward to using the chairs for a ‘drinking sesh.’
However, not everyone is on board with the beach cabana craze. Aesthetics have been called into question, with calls for ‘neutral colours’ instead of the current designs. Durability is another concern, with reports of an umbrella from the range snapping immediately after use. Despite these criticisms, Cam Rist, Bunnings director of merchandise, has stated that customers are embracing the summer season with these new accessories, all while keeping sun-smart.
The debate over beach cabanas has escalated to the point where it’s not just about sun protection or style—it’s about beach etiquette and fairness. A recent news.com.au poll revealed that a staggering 82% of nearly 11,000 respondents disapproved of reserving a spot on the beach with a cabana, especially when it’s left unused. Only 15% thought it was acceptable, while 3% remained undecided.
The controversy reached its peak when a social media user, @gunclediaries, highlighted the issue by showing a Gold Coast beach inundated with cabanas, leaving little room for others. He suggested that people should be ‘charged for the space’ they take up, likening the prime beach real estate to a commodity that’s being unfairly monopolised.
Even Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has weighed in, emphasising the egalitarian nature of Australian beaches. He remarked that setting up a cabana and then leaving the beach is a breach of the principle that ‘everyone owns the beach.’
Have you tried Bunnings’ beach cabana? What’s your experience been like? Do you think it’s okay to reserve a beach spot with a cabana, or do you feel it’s unfair to others? Share your thoughts below!
Also read: Say goodbye to flies this summer with Bunnings’ affordable, non-toxic trap
