Driver Fumes Over Increased Council Fee for 4WD Beach Access
Aussies are outraged as council hikes fees for popular 4WD beach access, sparking debate over beach ownership and costs.
Aldinga Beach, South Australia, 4WD, Council Fees, Beach Access
Onkaparinga: So, it’s getting hot in Australia, and everyone’s flocking to the beaches to cool off. But things got a bit heated when one guy showed up at a popular 4WD spot and found out the local council had jacked up the access fee.
He shared a video online, showing a sign that said it now costs $12 for a “day permit” to hit Aldinga Beach. He was pretty fired up, saying the rising cost of living is making it tough for folks to enjoy the beach.
The City of Onkaparinga council confirmed that the fee went up from $8, and they expect to rake in about $375,000 this summer from several beaches, including Aldinga and Moana.
Here’s the kicker: a volunteer group will collect the fees, keeping a third of the total for themselves, while the rest goes to keeping the area safe and clean. Last summer, they took home half of what was collected, according to reports.
Local residents are pretty upset about having to pay to access these beaches. Many believe that beaches should be free for everyone. One person even commented that “no one owns” the beach, so why should anyone have to pay?
While locals don’t have to pay, the debate continues. Some folks argue that the fee helps with cleaning and maintaining the beach and facilities.
Despite the backlash, the council stands firm, saying the fee is necessary to cover rising costs for maintaining the foreshore and ensuring safe vehicle use. They’ve been regulating vehicle access since 1975, including speed limits and restricted areas.
If you have a current beach access permit, you’re in the clear. But if you try to drive on the beach without one, you could face a hefty $187 fine.
Meanwhile, there’s also concern about the damage 4WDs are causing to the environment. Reports say reckless driving is harming wildlife, especially along the Cooloola Coast in Queensland, where endangered turtles are at risk.
It’s a real mess, and many are calling for better awareness and responsibility among drivers. The damage being done is pretty shocking, and it’s clear that something needs to change.