Coastal community gathers to discuss proposed local laws in a bid to improve beach safety

Members of a coastal community with a popular tourist beach gathered last week to discuss proposed local laws in a bid to improve beach safety.

The community of Preston Beach attended the community centre on Thursday for an information and feedback session around the Shire of Waroona’s draft local law.

The meeting saw the shire address concerns around safety on the beach, from camping to the use of four-wheel-drives.

Preston Beach operators have been looking to cut the number of 4WDs utilising the beach since February when council proposed adding a paid permit for drivers.

Residents of Preston Beach have expressed frustration with the lack of an enforceable speed limit on the beach, as well as the types of vehicles using the coastline.

At the meeting, shire officers aimed to address the concerns with ideas around implementing a set speed limit, registration requirements for all drivers and vehicles, and limiting the type of vehicle able to enter the beach.

Outside the meeting, shire president Mike Walmsley said the proposed law also had the potential to build upon the proposed permit plan for the beach.

The meeting also addressed beach camping which has proved a challenge for the community to manage in the past.

The shire’s draft local law states a person cannot camp on the beach without a permit outside of the designated overnight recreational vehicle stay.

The proposed law stated anyone taking part in night fishing must have adequate lighting on their vehicle and structures so they are easily visible at night.

Cr Walmsley said overall the meeting proved a success and was an testament to the community’s drive for a safer coastline.

Preston Beach resident and former shire president Noel Dew said he was happy with the outcome.

“Questions were encouraged and answered,” he said.

“The discussion covered numerous topics relating to future laws regarding our beach, which I felt were very much appreciated by those attending the meeting.

“As a long time local resident and volunteer beach ranger I was greatly impressed by the interest and attitude demonstrated by locals at this meeting. These people do care and it showed.”