Long Beach users urged to adhere to the rules

Natural Resources Eyre Peninsula is urging people to play by the rules when visiting Long Beach, at Coffin Bay.

Natural Resources Eyre Peninsula Manager Southern District Peter Wilkins said to balance environmental, safety and social needs it’s important that people respect the Coffin Bay National Park boundary and adhere to access conditions.

Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Ian Hunter recently consulted with key stakeholders and community members on the future management of Long Beach, and Mr Wilkins said this process revealed some community misconceptions.

“The beach has a long history of vehicle use; historically it was used as the main access route to the Coffin Bay Peninsula,” Mr Wilkins said. “However, this access was closed when an alternative road was built and signage was installed on Long Beach to mark the end point for vehicle access.

“The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) reminds drivers that regular road rules apply to Long Beach, including a 25kph speed limit.

“Drivers are also required to stay within 10m of the guide posts and must not enter the signed vehicle exclusion area.

“This will prevent unnecessary damage to important inter-tidal areas where billions of organisms live in the sand which are a food source for birds and fish.”

Mr Wilkins said a large portion of Long Beach falls within the boundary of Coffin Bay National Park, and as dogs are not permitted in the park, they are also not permitted on this part of Long Beach.

“New signage has been installed to clearly define the area where dogs are not permitted,” he said.

Feedback through the consultation process highlighted the need for greater community awareness of the rules regarding dogs on Long Beach and more compliance.

“As such we’ll be conducting extra patrols and an educational campaign on Long Beach over the coming months,” Mr Wilkins said.

“Long Beach provides a safe haven for local and migratory bird species which congregate at certain times of the year to feed, rest and build body reserves important to their survival, and in some cases the survival of a whole species.

“We believe if people stick to the rules, and follow the signs and guide posts, vehicles and wildlife can safely co-exist on Long Beach.”

For further information call (08) 8688 3111 or visit www.landscape.sa.gov.au/ep/parks/park-management