Major change for popular Qld beach and turtle hotspot

Vehicles will be banned from a popular beach in a decision aimed largely at protecting a turtle nesting ground.

A popular central Queensland beach and one of the state’s most pristine turtle nesting grounds has been closed to 4WDs and motorbikes.

The Mackay Regional Council this week voted to close Harbour Beach to vehicles after it had in the past been a hotspot for drivers and riders.

The council took action because of erosion caused to the dunes and the threat vehicles posed to the area’s turtle nests.

“Over time, vehicles have caused significant damage to the foredune, impacting on the coastal flora and fauna and turtle and shorebird nesting sites,” Mackay Regional Mayor Greg Williamson said.

Vehicles will be banned from Harbour Beach in Mackay. Picture: Supplied.

“The impact of that damage over many years is threatening the ecological integrity of this area.”

Mr Williamson said council had received community complaints about motorbikes being ridden on the beach, and the decision would rejuvenate the foreshore.

The move will restrict access to the beach and foreshore on a stretch of council-controlled land from Harbour Beach to East Point.

The council said access to Pioneer River, which is inland from the beach, would remain unchanged.

To enforce the restriction, the area will be patrolled by council officers and Queensland Police.

Originally published as Major change for popular Qld beach and turtle hotspot