Community decides whether more Capricorn Coast beaches welcome vehicles

It’s time for the public to speak up or shut up on the hot issue of whether more Capricorn Coast beaches should be opened up for four-wheel-driving.

Beach four-wheel-driving is popular at the Capricorn Coast. Generic image. Inset: Livingstone Shire councillor Adam Belot.

It is a hot issue that has divided the community - should more Capricorn Coast beaches allow four-wheel-driving?

And now it’s time for the community to be heard “for the record”.

As previously reported, Livingstone Shire Council is looking at the idea of allowing recreational vehicle access on the Shire’s southern beaches including Ritamada Beach at Emu Park, Timbers Beach at Zilzie, and Long Beach at Joskeleigh.

The council has just launched a survey to gauge if there is community support for such a concept and the public is urged to “have a say” through this official consultation process.

Under the current Local Law, driving on any beach other than Farnborough Beach north of Hinz Avenue, is prohibited - however certain beaches permit vehicle access for the purpose of launching and retrieving a boat.

Livingstone Shire councillor Adam Belot stands on Ritamada Road at Emu Park.

Councillor Adam Belot said the community consultation came in response to residents in the south of the Shire requesting vehicle access at beaches that were well away from urban communities.

“We acknowledge the requests received, however before determining our position and making a plan moving forward, we want to hear the community’s thoughts,” Mr Belot said.

“The matter of vehicles on Livingstone Shire beaches has been a hot topic over the past year.”

Late last year, the council announced it would close both Bangalee and Sandy Point beach accesses to Farnborough Beach, for all vehicular traffic at night for a three-month trial.

An aerial shot of the popular Farnborough Beach.

Safety has long been a concern on this stretch of coastline - last September there was a near miss on Farnborough Beach involving a 4WD and families including children.

The three-month trial started on November 1 last year.

Mr Belot said this latest round of community consultation would also give the public a chance to indicate whether they would like to become a member of the Southern Beach Reference Group if one was formed.

This group would ultimately be responsible for providing recommendations to the council about possible vehicular usage on beaches.

To take part in the survey, go to https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/

People can also request a hard copy of the survey from the council’s Customer Support Centres or libraries.

Consultation is open now and closes midnight Sunday, February 5, 2023.