Keep to the track on the Yacaaba dunes

Published on 21 December 2023

MidCoast beaches are loved by everyone in the community for a range of different activities, but some beach drivers are doing more harm than good.

Beach permits allow people to drive on certain beaches in the MidCoast. There are however specific rules outlined in the beach permits that help protect our beaches from coastal processes such as erosion. They also aim to keep everyone safe, including the wildlife that lives on the beaches.

The fees from the beach permits supports Council to maintain beach access points and help to protect the shore birds that nest on the dunes.

Unfortunately, some people have been misusing their beach permit and driving over the dunes on Jimmys and Bennetts Beach in Hawks Nest. Driving over the dunes causes further erosion and stops the dunes from naturally regenerating.

This area is also culturally significant site which is important to the local community.

“We ask that our residents and visitors to the area be respectful of the environment, the cultural significance of the area and the wider community when driving on beaches in Hawks Nest,” said Paul De Szell, Director Liveable Communities.

There is a designated path over the dunes for drivers to carefully cross from Jimmys Beach to Bennetts Beach. This is the only permissible cross over point and is located about halfway down the beach, approximately 900 metres from Jimmys Beach 4WD access point.

“Please use this area only when crossing between the beaches. We have installed signage on the beach to identify important areas where access is prohibited or restricted.”

There are different levels of beach permits for Jimmys and Bennetts beaches. Some of the beach is 4WD accessible while other parts are only accessible by commercial fishers or restricted permit holders, such as people with mobility issues.

You can find more information about beach permits here: www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/beachpermit.