City urges safety on beaches this summer

With the safety of beachgoers paramount, Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said Coastal Rangers would be patrolling the coastline over the warmer months.

“Thousands of people descend on our beaches during summer, so we need to ensure that beachgoers are protected,” Mayor Roberts said.

“Unfortunately, in the past there have been several near-miss incidents due to people driving offroad vehicles illegally on our beaches.

“Cars and bikes are totally incompatible with recreational activities taking place at the beach, and our primary concern will always be for the safety and protection of beach users.”

Vehicle access to beaches in greater metropolitan Perth has been prohibited for at least a decade.

“Not only is off-road driving dangerous in built up areas, it is harmful to the foreshore and dune systems,” Mayor Roberts said.

Drones and additional staff will be used to patrol beaches across the City of Wanneroo’s 32km of coastline, with offenders set to receive a $500 fine.

Last summer 47 infringement notices were issued for unauthorised vehicles on beaches and dunes.

Vehicles are still allowed on certain beaches by many country Councils, including the neighbouring Shire of Gingin.