Mr Carter contacted the Times this week to clear the air over what has been a sensitive issue with local recreational fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts in recent months.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service has received a number of complaints from disgruntled beachgoers as to why the beach has been closed off to 4WD vehicles in recent times.

It was vandalism to the gate blocking access to Saltwater Beach – an act Mr Carter believes to be the work of annoyed locals – that prompted him to make a statement.

“Only four kilometres out of the Manning’s 37 kilometres of beaches are out of bounds to motorists,” Mr Carter said.

“And that four kilometres includes Saltwater Beach and the coastline around to Diamond Beach.”

“We understand people’s disappointment that they can’t go down there in their vehicles, but we ask them to respect our decision and the reasons for our judgement.”

Mr Carter said providing a safe environment for visitors to the beach and popular lagoon area at Saltwater was a key factor in restricting vehicle access.

“The lagoon and beach areas at Saltwater and Diamond Beach are really popular spots for locals and tourists alike,” he said.

“When summer holidays hit, the place is going to be absolutely chockers.

“As it stands, people are already told they can’t drive on this stretch of beach when they apply for a beach permit.

“Restricting vehicle access means families and tourists won’t have to worry about vehicles driving through the area whatsoever.”

The driving ban also follows on from a request from local Aboriginal elders to stop vehicles driving on what is considered to be culturally sensitive land.

“We have been approached by local Aboriginal elders who were a little concerned about 4WD vehicles driving on the land out there,” Mr Carter said.