MidCoast Council has closed an informal beach track created by four-wheel drivers at Harrington due to coastal erosion.
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Council has erected signage and fencing to close the track south of the formalised Harrington Beach access point. The unapproved track has eroded in a short time and poses a safety hazard for four-wheel drivers.
Use of informal tracks is unauthorised and against council's beach driving policy, not only for the protection of the dune habitat but for the safety of the beach driving community.
"This particular area is popular with 4WDers and fishermen, but there are rules for driving on beaches," council's coastal management coordinator Andrew Staniland said. "It's important that beach drivers stay between the high and low tide marks where the sand is firmer. This provides the safest and easiest route for four-wheel driving, helps pedestrians understand vehicle passageways, and ensures dune vegetation and nesting shorebirds are protected."
A valid permit must be displayed to gain access to a series of beaches across the Mid Coast that allow beach driving. Entry and exit to these beaches must be made using only designated, signposted access points.
Speed restrictions apply, pedestrians have right of way, and vehicles must remain within the intertidal zone. Drivers are also encouraged to drive to the conditions and plan their trips with the changing tides in mind.
To help remind 4WDers of their responsibilities before heading onto the beach, new formalised beach access signage is currently in development and will be trialled over summer. MidCoast Council will also begin a process to improve beach access points and adjoining carparks.
"Our beaches are home to a number of endangered shorebird species, and with nesting season currently underway, it's important for beach drivers to be extra vigilant, to stay off the dune areas, and to observe signposted nesting areas," Andrew added. "Share the shore responsibly."
For a full list of beach driving rules, maps showing authorised beach access points, and beach permit purchase locations, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/beachdriving
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