Drive safely, plan for high tides and steer clear of vegetated dunes.
That’s the message from Noosa Council, with authorities gearing up to enforce the rules as residents and visitors descend on Noosa North Shore and Teewah Beach in vehicles this Easter.
Mayor Clare Stewart said Council will deploy additional Local Laws officers to Noosa North Shore to support enforcement efforts by Queensland Police and Queensland Parks and Wildlife.
“If you’re heading up the beach camping, we want you to have a great time, but sadly the Easter holidays are notorious for crashes, environmental damage and poor driver behaviour,” Mayor Clare Stewart said.
Police officers will be on the beach enforcing speed limits and targeting dangerous driving.
“Similarly, Queensland Parks and Wildlife officers will be checking drivers have beach permits. Our Local Laws officers will be on the beach across Easter to support the QPS and QPWS effort.”
The Mayor said Council had also deployed roadside Variable Message Boards to warn drivers against driving on the beach close to high tides.
“By taking extra care we can all help avoid accidents, keep everyone safe – in vehicles and on the beach – and protect our vulnerable fauna and flora from vehicle damage during this busy time.”
Council reminds motorists to obey sign-posted speed limits on the beach and stay off vegetated dunes, which protect against erosion and provide habitat for wildlife such as nesting sea turtles.
“The vegetated dunes are off limits to vehicles and fines apply,” the Mayor said.
“The best way to ensure you stay out of these areas is to plan ahead and don’t set off up the beach within two hours either side of high tide.
“Let’s respect the environment and obey the road rules, so we can all enjoy the beautiful natural playground on our doorstep, now and into the future,” Mayor Stewart said.
For information about vehicle permits, visit the QPWS websiteparks.des.qld.gov.au/
