The Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management supported by the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, unequivocally condemns the four-wheel drivers filmed recklessly jumping sand dunes at the Aboriginal-owned Worimi Conservation Lands last weekend and issues a strong warning to other drivers who may be considering similar actions when visiting the national park.
Board chairperson Mr Jamie Tarrant said that the demonstration was an appalling display of illegal and dangerous driving.
“This type of behaviour is not welcome in the Worimi Conservation Lands. It is unsafe, disrespectful and totally at odds with the kind of experience we welcome visitors to the park to enjoy,” Mr Tarrant said.
“The Worimi Conservation Lands Board and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service are working with NSW Police to investigate the incident and will be stepping up patrols and security at the park to stamp out this type of behaviour.
“The board has spent over a decade working to provide a safe and enjoyable experience and a family friendly atmosphere, while still providing opportunities for sustainable dune and beach driving.
“Most of our visitors respect the park rules and this beautiful part of the coastline, however unfortunately, this weekend, everyone has been let down by a handful of foolish and irresponsible drivers.
“Fortunately, for these visitors they escaped serious injury despite significant damage to one of the vehicles, however, this could have been a very different story. We have seen many serious accidents due to dangerous and reckless driving in the dunes,” Mr Tarrant said.
The Board is not alone in its concerns with responsible four-wheel drivers and other visitors to the park expressing their criticism of the behaviour via social media.
Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Vice President Shane McClymont said Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Inc does not condone this type of behaviour.
“It goes against our code of conduct that our members follow, and we fully support the Worimi Conservation Lands Board of Management and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in this matter,” Mr McClymont said.
All vehicles entering the Worimi Conservation Lands must be registered and display a valid Worimi Conservation Lands beach vehicle permit.
The Worimi Conservation Lands (WCL) is considered a road related area and road rules apply under Road Transport (General) Act 2013.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service can also issue a fine to persons found driving in a dangerous or reckless manner on Worimi Conservation Lands.