New strategy guides action on protecting Yorke Peninsula’s coast

The Draft Guuranda – Yorke Peninsula Coastal Access Strategy 2025–2035 is being led by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board and developed collaboratively with the Narungga Nation Aboriginal Corporation (NNAC), Barunga West, Copper Coast and Yorke Peninsula councils, Department for Environment and Water and local stakeholders.

It aims to balance sustainable coastal access for off-road vehicles with preserving fragile ecosystems and Narungga cultural sites, which hold deep spiritual significance.

Northern and Yorke Landscape Board General Manager Tony Fox said the strategy will help ensure Yorke Peninsula’s rich natural assets are protected for future generations to enjoy.

“The number of people accessing Yorke Peninsula’s coastline via off-road vehicles is increasing every year, and the impacts include pollution, trampled vegetation and damage to Narungga sites of significance,” he said.

“No one wants to see the fragile coastal dune system harmed beyond repair, so it’s important that we work together to take a balanced approach that’s sustainable for both the environment and for continued recreational use by locals and visitors.”

Consultation is underway on the draft strategy involving the 3 councils and NNAC. The Northern and Yorke Landscape Board has also held information sessions with local progress associations, 4WD organisations and the tourism sector, who will help to shape the final version, ensuring it reflects shared priorities. The final strategy is expected to be released in 2025.

Proposed actions include:

• Restricting access to sensitive areas to prevent further ecological and cultural damage.
• Enhancing visitor education through campaigns and signage to promote responsible behaviour.
• Improving infrastructure, such as designated access tracks and facilities, to support sustainable recreation.
• Collaborating with Traditional Owners to preserve cultural and natural values.

NNAC Chair Cyril Kartinyeri said the strategy was a critical step towards protecting Narungga’s culture.

“For the Narungga people, the coast is central to our cultural identity. Our ancestors have lived along these shores for thousands of years, and the coastal environment holds deep spiritual and cultural significance,” he said. “Coastal areas are integral to our traditions, stories, ceremonies, and practices, and maintaining these places is essential for preserving our culture.”

NNAC CEO, Doug Milera commented, “By protecting the coast of Guuranda you’re also protecting Sea Country. Land, Sea and Sky are connected, it’s all Country. Our ancestors walked what is now known as the seafloor and our living connection to Country dates back to time immemorial. In protecting Narungga’s ancient shorelines, we protect our culture now.”

The spectacular coastline of Guuranda - Yorke Peninsula spans nearly 700 kilometres and features incredible landscape diversity including beaches, cliffs, estuaries, mangroves, tidal mudflats and salt marshes, along with the native plants and animals that call it home.

Locals and visitors treasure the coastline’s natural beauty, as well as the fishing, boating, surfing, camping and walking opportunities.

Copper Coast Council Mayor Roslyn Talbot said it was important to get the balance right. “People have a right to enjoy our coastal spaces, but it’s imperative that they do so in a way that is sympathetic to the cultural and environmental overlay. Improved infrastructure in sensitive areas, and increased visitor education are a must.”

Barunga West Council Mayor Leonie Kerley emphasised that the council was dedicated to protecting the coastline. “By working with our partners and the community, we are ensuring a future where access and conservation co-exist,” she said. “Council encourages all members of the community to participate in shaping the future of our coastline during the public consultation phase. By working together, we can protect our coastline and maintain its beauty and significance for years to come.”

Yorke Peninsula Council Mayor Darren Braund said the strategy was a proactive step to address the growing pressures on the coastline. “Yorke Peninsula’s coastal areas are not only stunning but also incredibly delicate,” he said. “This strategy is about protecting those areas while ensuring we can continue to enjoy them responsibly. By acting now, we can ensure that future generations can experience the same natural beauty and cultural richness we value so highly.”

Developing the Coastal Access Strategy is part of Northern and Yorke Landscape Board’s Djulda-wawa Badja project. Djulda-wawa Badja means ‘resilient coast’ in Narungga language.