Approximately ten thousand tonnes of wind-blown sand have been removed from the Lavis Lane 4WD beach entry at the Worimi Conservation Lands in preparation for the holidays.
Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management Chairperson Jamie Tarrant said strong southerly winds that the area has experienced over the past few months escalated the build-up of wind-blown sand on the access tracks.
“The dynamic nature of the beach means that the 4WD access tracks require regular maintenance to remove built up sand and ensure they remain safe and in good condition for vehicles.
“This latest effort involved a 24-tonne excavator and a dump truck which together removed approximately ten thousand tonnes of sand from the track.
“It was a win-win situation. The work will provide better 4WD access for park visitors over summer, and it enabled us to re-distribute large volumes of sand to areas of the park where it was most needed for rehabilitation, including areas damaged by flooding and the vulnerable frontal dunes.
“The Board remains committed to providing safe and sustainable visitor access to the Aboriginal-owned Worimi Conservation Lands,” said Mr Tarrant.
The 4200-hectare Worimi Conservation Lands is managed by the local Worimi Traditional Owners, in partnership with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
The Conservation Lands provide four-wheel drivers with over 19km of beach front driving between the 4WD entrances at Anna Bay and Williamtown, as well as over 350 hectares of dune driving south of Lavis Lane.
People are also reminded that COVID-19 physical distancing restrictions apply when visiting the park. Visit the NSW Heath website for more details.