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Beach 4WD restrictions ease as COVID-19 rules relaxed

Access to some of southeast Queensland’s most popular beach 4WD tracks have been restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that will change from Tuesday.

Calls to ban popular 4wd beach

As part of the COVID-19 pandemic response beach 4WD at Bribie Island and Cooloola recreation areas have been restricted – but some major changes came into effect today.

The recreation areas, including the camp sites, were closed during the height of the pandemic.

The state government reopened the parks in June as the restrictions were eased.

But there was a catch.

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Anyone visiting the area, either for a day trip or camping, had to apply for a COVID-19 Restricted Access Area Authority pass.

These were free of charge but there was a limit on how many were given out for any given day.

Aerial shot of Bribie's 4wd beach on Australia Day, 2017. QPWS estimate around 2600 vehicles used the beach that day with that number rising to 4600 on Australia Day, 2018. PHOTO: My Bribie Island
Aerial shot of Bribie's 4wd beach on Australia Day, 2017. QPWS estimate around 2600 vehicles used the beach that day with that number rising to 4600 on Australia Day, 2018. PHOTO: My Bribie Island

It was the government’s way of ensuring social distancing was adhered to by limited the number of people and vehicles in each area.

From today however, November 3, this restriction has been lifted for annual vehicle access permit pass holders.

Beach 4WD restrictions are easing for annual permit holders. IMAGE: SUPPLIED
Beach 4WD restrictions are easing for annual permit holders. IMAGE: SUPPLIED

It follows Queensland opening its border to select parts of New South Wales.

All annual permit pass holders were sent an email regarding the change.

Beach driving with Noosa 4WD Eco Tours in the Cooloola Recreation Area of the Great Sandy National Park, Queensland.
Beach driving with Noosa 4WD Eco Tours in the Cooloola Recreation Area of the Great Sandy National Park, Queensland.

Meaning only the number of day trippers, who still have to pay for a vehicle access pass, will be limited.

Police and rangers will be patrolling the areas to ensure the rules are met.

For more information or to apply for a pass visit https://qld.gov.au/parkalerts and follow Queensland Health guidelines before you travel to stay up to date with the latest COVID-19 advice.

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Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/moreton/beach-4wd-restrictions-ease-as-covid19-rules-relaxed/news-story/251ea6c60b7b3a79de266d7d815ac57c