High seas force temporary closure of Myall Lakes beaches for vehicles

Media release: 28 June 2013

Recent heavy weather has forced the temporary closure of Bennett’s Beach in Myall Lakes National Park, north of Newcastle, due to the combination of high tides, strong winds and large waves causing significant beach erosion.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Hunter Region Manager Robert Quirk said erosion to Bennett’s Beach makes it unsafe for vehicle access.

Mr Quirk said wave action has left steep ledges and areas of very soft sand.

“There is insufficient beach remaining in the intertidal zone to allow for safe use by 4WD vehicles”, Mr Quirk said.

“This closure applies to Bennetts Beach in the south of Myall Lakes National Park from the park boundary to Little Gibber including access via Lemon Tree 4WD. Mungo Beach from the Mungo 4WD access to Big Gibber also remains under temporary closure due to severe erosion of foredunes and loss of beach sand,” he said.

The temporary closures will be in place at Lemon Tree Beach 4WD access track by the closure of a bar gate and signage. Signage will also be placed at the park boundary on Bennett’s Beach.

“NPWS will continue to monitor the condition of the beaches, and will re-open to 4WDs once the conditions improve through natural sand replenishment", Mr Quirk said.

For further information people should contact the Great Lakes Area Office on 02 6591 0300 between 8:30am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday or visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au.

Image here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/48646673@N07/9157318396/  

Contact: Lawrence Orel