Worimi Conservation Lands on the Stockton Beach front are currently closed to driving north of Lavis Lane to access to Gan Gan due to recent weather and rough sea conditions causing erosion on the sea ​​front.

Over the past week, conditions on the beach have deteriorated, leaving signs to prevent the construction of four-wheel drive between the Gan Gan entrance in Anna Bay and the Lavis Lane entrance in Williamtown.

A representative of the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) told News Of The Area: “The extent of the damage was exacerbated by 4WD vehicles driving illegally on the front dune trying to avoid dangerous drops or high tides.

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“This behavior destroys the critical vegetation that stabilizes the frontal dune, which is an essential natural barrier to maintain the integrity of the dune system and protect important cultural sites and park values ​​from heavy ocean swells and storms.

“As the beach recovers from the storm and swell, other driving hazards can develop, including large pools of water, soft saturated sand and unstable sandbanks.

“The current closure will remain in place until the waterfront can be safely reopened for vehicles.”

The NPWS and the Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management are planning a major upgrade to the entrance to Gan Gan Road to reestablish and revegetate the frontal dune, and install a stabilizing “ Track Pad ”, to help prevent vehicles from rolling over. get bogged down or damage the frontal dune as they cross towards the beach.

Stockton Beach has many ongoing issues that are constantly being addressed not only by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Worimi traditional owners of the land, but also by the Local Council and the Federal Government.

As the beach recovers from recent storms, conditions are changing which all residents should be aware of.

These dangers include large pools of water, steep intertidal areas, soft sand, unstable sandbanks, and exhibits.

By Tara CAMPBELL