As many popular beaches increasingly face camping bans along the Aussie coastline, families are left dealing with the “heartbreaking” reality that some of their favourite holiday destinations could be blocked from public access.
One Aussie family who has been travelling for over eight months told Yahoo News the free camping spot at Wauraltee Beach in South Australia was “definitely our favourite” after exploring four states. But with camping banned there from February 3, they must now say goodbye.
“It’s honestly heartbreaking to see it closing. It’s such a shame that so many people won’t get the chance to enjoy this place the way we have,” D’arci Hopper said. “Out of all the free camps we’ve stayed at, this has definitely been our favourite. We’ve had Wauraltee on our must-see list for two years, so we feel really grateful we got to experience it before it closes.”
Hopper explained free beach camping at Wauraltee and other similar sites brings “like-minded families together”, and waking up to “stunning ocean views” is a pleasure Australia excels at.
“With more free camps like this shutting down across the country, it feels like we’re losing these beautiful, accessible spots that bring people and families together.”
Camping at Wauraltee Beach in South Australia will no long be permitted from February 3. Source: Instagram/rippinaroundoz
According to the state’s Department of Environment, the decision has been made to ban camping from Wauraltee Beach due to the increased popularity of 4WD vehicles and the subsequent impact on the environment and local wildlife.
Fine line of ‘enjoyment’ and ‘protection’ at 4WD beaches
Authorities are striving to reach a balance between “visitor enjoyment” and “the need to protect native flora and fauna” on beaches across the state.
“The new rules for vehicle access at Wauraltee Beach seek to ensure its environmental values are protected, while still allowing people to enjoy recreational activities such as boating and fishing,” Jason Irving, National Parks and Wildlife Service National Parks Programs Director, said in a statement.
“Wauraltee Beach is a special place but it will not stay that way for future generations if it is constantly damaged by a mass number of vehicles.”
It’s a fine line that many state governments are trying to walk as the growing popularity of camping is boosting domestic tourism, according to Statista. However, the heavy traffic flow is undeniably placing pressure on local wildlife and the environment.
Authorities are trying to balance tourism with wildlife protection. Source: Supplied/DarrenJew
Repeated reckless acts on Aussie coastlines prompt threats
A driver’s reckless move at Goolwa Beach in South Australia prompted a stern threat from the council’s mayor. He warned that 4WD access to the beach could be shut down forever after a driver was caught allegedly speeding down an empty stretch of Goolwa Beach before losing control and rolling over on Thursday.
There have been a number of incidents involving 4WDs driving along sand dunes along Queensland’s Cooloola coastline too, damaging their structure and jeopardising the safety of native turtles species using the dunes for nesting.
Mackay Regional Council recently decided to ban 4WD and motorcyclists from Harbour Beach in a bid to protect the area.
“We’ve put a stake in the ground,” Mayor Greg Williamson said. “We’re shutting off vehicle access altogether south of the harbour beach area through to the mouth of the river… the impact of that damage over many years is threatening the ecological integrity of this area.” Those who break the rules will face fines of $774.
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