Weather closes parts of Stockton Beach to 4WDs over Christmas holidays
Weather and sea conditions have led to temporary closures of beachfront four-wheel driving on the northern section of Stockton Beach at Worimi Conservation Lands (WCL) over the summer holidays.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is actively monitoring beachfront conditions and has temporarily closed the WCL between the Gan Gan entry at Anna Bay and the Lavis Lane entry near Williamtown until at least 28 December.
The Lavis Lane and Fern Bay entries remain open, including beachfront driving and the Recreational Vehicle Area.
Like many locations along the NSW coastline, Worimi Conservation Lands has a number of narrow sections of beach that become impassable during big high tides, creating a safety issue for visitors.
NPWS Area Manager Rachel Reese said these conditions mean that temporary closures are needed for the public's safety and to protect Worimi cultural sites and the frontal dune.
"Visitor safety is our priority. The narrow sections of beachfront that become impassable at high tides continue to be a watch-point for us.
"We'll be monitoring conditions and may extend or expand the beachfront driving closure if conditions become unsafe.
"Any temporary closure will be signposted. The beachfront temporary closures are most likely to impact 4WD visitors to Worimi Conservation Lands."
WCL Board of Management Chairperson Jamie Tarrant said the temporary closures shouldn't impact other visitor access to the WCL.
"We welcome visitors to the Worimi Conservation Lands. Despite any temporary beachfront closures preventing 4WD access, there are usually options to still visit the park," Mr Tarrant said.
The Ganyamalbaa camping area and the recreational vehicle area should not be affected and are expected to remain open via the Lavis Lane and Fern Bay entries.
A reminder that those looking to camp at the allocated camping area will need to book online.
The beachfront temporary closures are likely to have minimal impact to most tour activities, however visitors should contact local operators about available experiences.
"A big thanks to the local community and visitors from Sydney and elsewhere for their understanding during these temporary closures," Mr Tarrant said.
Before heading out, check the web site for closures. See NPWS Alerts or call NPWS on 1300 072 757 (1300-0-PARKS) for more information on park closures, conditions and camping.
