Protecting Our Coastline for Future Generations: Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan Adopted

Published on Wednesday, 2 July 2025 at 3:06:54 PM

Release date: 2/07/2025

Please attribute information below to Dandaragan Shire President, Tony O’Gorman.


Protecting Our Coastline for Future Generations: Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan Adopted

The Shires of Coorow, Dandaragan and Gingin are pleased to announce the adoption of the Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan (CRTMMP) – a forward-thinking initiative designed to protect and enhance the unique landscapes of our northern coastal corridor, whilst continuing to provide locals and visitors with the recreational opportunities they love.

Stretching from the northern fringe of Perth to just north of Leeman, this iconic coastal stretch is renowned for its rugged beauty, sense of isolation and diverse range of nature-based activities – from four-wheel driving, to fishing, windsurfing and camping. Its popularity has grown steadily over the years, bringing both social and economic benefits to our coastal communities.

The CRTMMP aims to manage the balance between this growing demand and the need to protect our coastal environments and cultural values. The CRTMMP went out for public consultation in April, receiving mainly positive feedback including constructive input from four-wheel drive clubs and coastal groups. Thanks to funding from the State Natural Resource Management Program, co-contributions from the Shires and the invaluable efforts from land managers, community groups and volunteers, the CRTMMP was adopted by all three Shires at their respective June Council Meetings.

Key highlights of the CRTMMP include:

  • Retaining popular recreation activities and sites, ensuring visitors can continue to enjoy the coast’s natural attractions.
  • Clearly defining and sign-posting four-wheel drive travel routes to reduce track proliferation and protect sensitive landscapes.
  • Enhancing visitor orientation through improved signage and educational material, making it easier and safer for people to explore.
  • Protecting conservation and cultural values by excluding vehicles from specific sensitive areas.
  • Assessing and upgrading existing recreation sites to enhance visitor experiences, while closing and rehabilitating sites at risk of environmental damage.

Importantly, the CRTMMP compliments and aligns with other coastal and land management plans, including the DBCA Nilgen Wanagarren Master Plan and regional coastal strategies, establishing a coordinated approach across the three Shires.

By carefully managing where and how recreation occurs, the Shires of Coorow, Dandaragan and Gingin are taking proactive steps to safeguard the environmental and cultural values that make this coastline so special, ensuring they can be enjoyed by generations to come.

For more information or to view the Coastal Recreation Track Management Master Plan, please visit: https://www.gingin.wa.gov.au/news/coastal-recreation-tracks-master-plan-have-your-say!/907

ENDS


Media enquiries:
T: (08) 9652 0800
E: council@dandaragan.wa.gov.au

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