Urgent Plea to Drivers and Campers Ahead of Australia Day Weekend
Wildlife advocates urge caution as endangered turtle nests face threats from beachgoers this Australia Day weekend
Teewah Beach, Queensland, Australia Day, Turtles, 4WD, Camping
Teewah Beach: Large sections of a popular 4WD and camping beach are closed off to drivers as Australia Day weekend approaches. This is to protect thousands of endangered sea turtles that are about to hatch.
Jan Waters from Cooloola Coast Turtle Care shared that Teewah Beach, located north of Noosa Heads, is a crucial nesting site for green and loggerhead turtles. There are currently 19 nests ready to hatch.
The main issue is that the deep 4WD tracks made by beachgoers pose a serious risk to the tiny hatchlings. They have to cross these tracks to reach the ocean, and unfortunately, many don’t make it.
Waters explained that these tracks can be 25cm deep and wide, while the hatchlings are only about 5cm long. If they get stuck, they’re likely to perish.
With 19 nests in the area, drivers are being asked to heed the signs that indicate where the nests are located. They should avoid driving on the soft sand near the dunes to keep the nests safe.
Waters is calling on all 4WD drivers and campers to stick to the beach rules. They should only drive two hours before and after low tide and avoid nighttime driving. With many visitors expected for Australia Day, it’s crucial to protect these precious hatchlings.
Recently, a long line of cars was seen on a quiet street in Tewantin, filled with holidaymakers eager to visit the beach. The Cooloola Recreation ground is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, but it can get chaotic.
Last week, a photo showed a 2km traffic jam in Tewantin, with outdoor enthusiasts stuck bumper to bumper in their vehicles. Locals say this happens every year, despite needing a permit to visit.
There have also been reports of reckless driving in the area, including one driver who zoomed past others while towing a jet ski, only to get stuck in the soft sand where turtles nest.
Waters mentioned that inexperienced drivers often cause damage by driving over the dunes during high tide. They don’t realize the harm they’re doing, which is a real concern for the turtle nests.
So, if you’re heading to Teewah Beach this weekend, please be mindful of the turtles and follow the guidelines to help protect them.