Better Beach Driving for Easter
Beach hazard – Teewah Beach (Noosa North Shore) Update # 5 – 26 March 2013 until further notice
Cooloola Recreation Area – Great Sandy National Park
Area affected: Teewah Beach—between Third Cutting and Teewah township.
Exposed coffee rock, severely eroded beaches and changing beach conditions pose a risk for motorists travelling to Teewah Beach and Freshwater camping areas, Double Island Point, Rainbow Beach, Inskip Peninsula and Fraser Island.
Recent mild weather conditions have resulted in better beach driving conditions for Teewah Beach leading up to the Easter long weekend. As of 26 March, vehicle travel around the exposed rocky outcrops is restricted to one and a half hours either side of low tide. As a result, high clearance 4WDs towing trailers and boats will be able to negotiate the hazard with caution. Beach conditions may improve further over the coming days.
Drivers should remain alert, drive within your skill levels and drive to tide and beach conditions at all times. Be aware that beach conditions change on a daily basis—seek local advice wherever possible, and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Please note:
• Over the Easter holiday period expect congested traffic conditions and long queues on Noosa North Shore and Freshwater Road;
• Motorists should expect delays negotiating coffee rock outcrops between third cutting and Teewah township during the three hour timeframe;
• Due to poor visibility, traversing the beach in darkness during the early morning low tides over the Easter long weekend is not recommended;
• Do not attempt to drive through shallow saltwater due to the presence of hidden clumps of coffee rock;
• Access along the beach south of first cutting is affected by fallen trees and is currently passable at low tide;
• Freshwater Road is rough: Only high clearance 4WDs are suitable; all-wheel drives; vehicles towing trailers, boats and vans are not recommended;
• The beach between Leisha Track and Rainbow Beach may be impassable due to exposed rocks and fallen trees—seek local advice;
• Higher than normal tides predicted 28-30 March. Ensure camps are set up well above the high tide level, in designated beach camping areas;
• Exercise caution when driving on tracks and beaches—remain vigilant for hazards.
For further information check our website <www.nprsr.qld.gov.au> or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68)
For an updated conditions report, visit us online at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/cooloola
