Recfishwest has strongly advocated for ongoing beach access for recreational fishers in our submission on the Coastal Recreation Tracks Master Plan for the Shires of Coorow, Dandaragan and Gingin.
With the beaches and coastal tracks throughout this region being important for beach fishing and camping, the plan proposes a range of management actions that have significant implications for access to many highly valued fishing spots.
Fishing is a deeply ingrained part of the local lifestyle in these shires – and Recfishwest has made it clear in its submission that maintaining vehicle access to fishing beaches is non-negotiable.
“Driving on the beach is more than just part of the experience – in many locations, it’s the only way fishers can get to the spots they value most,” said Recfishwest’s Research and Development Lead, Sam Bock.
Education is the solution, not bans
Recfishwest’s response highlights concerns around the lack of detail in the plan regarding track maintenance, camping provisions, and vehicle access. While not opposing sensible consolidation of redundant tracks, Recfishwest strongly pushed for:
- Clear commitments to maintaining key access tracks;
- Involvement of local fishers in decisions about which tracks stay open;
- Avoiding “de-facto closures” caused by lack of maintenance or unclear vehicle restrictions.
The submission also pushed back against proposed vehicle-free zones, which risk undermining access to key fishing areas – especially for older fishers and those with mobility issues.
“Fishers and beachgoers have coexisted for generations – education and better signage are the answer, not blanket bans,” Sam said.
The submission also calls out the ad-hoc approach to camping in the Plan. Recfishwest warned that restricting camping near fishing areas without offering alternatives risks worsening issues like illegal camping and undermining safe overnight fishing trips.
A voice for the community
Recfishwest’s detailed submission included site-by-site comments across the entire coastal zone, urging planners to protect access at locations like:
- Sandy Cape, Jurien Bay town beaches, and Hill River in the Shire of Dandaragan;
- Point Louise, Billy Goat Bay, and Leeman South in the Shire of Coorow;
- Lancelin Back Beach, Wilbinga, and Seabird in the Shire of Gingin.
We will continue to work hard to ensure fishers’ voices are heard when planning decisions are made that potentially impact on fishing – because we know how important having continued access to these places are to local communities and visitors alike.
