With more than 190km of pristine coastline, from Hawks Nest (Jimmy’s Beach) in the south to Crowdy Head in the north, this stretch of the MidCoast region is an ideal playground for every four wheel driving enthusiast.
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But not without a 2017/18 beach vehicle access permit, which are now available.
Four wheel driving can be a great way to explore our beaches and beat the winter blues this time of year with fishing or whale watching, John Cavangh, MidCoast Council’s manager waste and regulatory services, said. Last year’s beach vehicle access permits have expired, so is the time to renew your permit for the 2017/18 financial year.
Beach vehicle access permits and brochures showing vehicle access points, are available at visitor information centres, council customer service centres, and selected bait and tackle stores, and must be clearly displayed on the bottom passenger side of your vehicle’s windscreen.
MidCoast Council now offers 30 day beach vehicle access permits across the entire region, which is great news for shorty-stay visitors to the area and also locals who only require a short-term permit. All permit fees contribute to maintaining beach access points, dune rehabilitation and weed control.
Obtaining a MidCoast beach vehicle access permit not only gives you entry to a range of beautiful, unspoilt beaches across the MidCoast region, but it also comes with being responsible and agreeing to comply with beach rules, which are enforced by council rangers and the NSW Police Force.
It is important to know which beaches and access points you can use and to keep an eye out for any beach closures.
The maximum beach speed is a 40kph, with pedestrians always having right of way, and vehicles must stay at least 15 metres away from pedestrians.
Vehicles must also drive between the tide marks, which means remaining below the high tide mark and above the low tide mark.
“Beach environments are sensitive and dynamic and it’s important we all take responsibility for our stunning coastline,” Mr Cavangh said.
“Council has a legislative and custodial responsibility to make sure beach users and the environment are protected. Vehicles are not permitted to drive on vegetation, sand dunes or bird nesting areas.
“Drivers need to do the right thing, so our natural flora and fauna are protected.
“Our beaches offer a great opportunity for 4WDers to get off the beaten track, and so long as people do the right thing by following a few simple rules, we welcome locals and visitors to take advantage of our stunning coastline”, Mr Cavangh said.
Further information, a list of permit outlets and beach driving guidelines are available at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/beachpermit
