Wild weather closes beach driving at Port Stephens

Severe weather conditions of the past few days, has temporarily forced the closure of beach driving at the Worimi Conservation Lands and Samurai Beach north of Newcastle for vehicle and public safety.

Worimi Conservation Lands

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Hunter Coast Area Manager Andrew Bond said large swells, gusty winds and soft sand has made driving at the popular beaches impassable and unsafe for vehicles.

“Large swell has swamped the beaches and extreme wave action has eroded the sand, creating steep drop offs and large areas of very soft sand,” Mr Bond said.

“So there is insufficient beach remaining to allow for the safe traverse by vehicles.

“Visitor and vehicle safety are paramount and these dangerous conditions have forced the temporary closure of both beaches including the designated Recreational Vehicle Area in the Worimi Conservation Lands.

“In addition, the Ganyamalbaa Camping Area in the Worimi Conservation Lands is also temporarily closed from 1 June 2019 until 1 July 2019 to allow for campsites to be rehabilitated over the off-peak winter season.

“Park closure signs have been installed at all entrances and NPWS will continue to monitor the conditions daily and will re-open the beaches as soon as conditions are considered safe ,” Mr Bond said.

For further information, visit National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW, Worimi Conservation Lands or contact NPWS Hunter Coast on 02. 4984-8200 during business hours.

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