The Shires of Coorow, Dandaragan, and Gingin have jointly adopted a master plan to protect WA’s coastline from the harsh effects of erosion, largely driven by off-track four-wheel driving.

The coastal stretch north of Perth, known for its wide range of outdoor activities such as four-wheel driving, fishing, and camping, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, which has become a concern for the local Shires.

With the increase of four-wheel driving across the coast, there has been a rise in the formation of new ‘unofficial’ coastal tracks, with drivers cutting through dunes rather than following the approved trails, leading to crucial environmental damage.

“The reason the Shires undertook this work was due to the massively increased usage of the coastal tracks,” said Dandaragan Shire President Tony O’Gorman. “This has caused significant degradation to the coastal environment.”

The newly acquired Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan (CRTMMP) is an initiative designed to protect the coastline by restricting off-track four-wheel driving while maintaining its reputation as an ideal location for nature-based activities.

“We are not closing tracks per se,” Mr. O’Gorman stated. “The purpose of the Masterplan is to clearly identify the recognised tracks and restrict usage on all the other unapproved tracks.”

To support the plan, signage will be placed along the designated routes, and information brochures will be made available at local visitor centres, government offices and libraries. Further information on tracks will be available from the Turquoise Coast Visitor Centre in due course, along with updates on social media and Shire websites.

The councils say these changes will not only aid in the protection of the coast but also foster a sustainable environment for recreational off-roading for years to come.

The Shires of Coorow, Dandaragan, and Gingin have adopted a Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan to protect the coastline from erosion caused by off-roading. More information can be found at dandaragan.wa.gov.au, and further updates will be posted on visitturquoisecoast.com.au