Council aims to improve public access point at Farnborough Beach following safety concerns

Livingstone Shire Council is striving to improve the public access point at Farnborough Beach at Bangalee, a popular 4WD destination for locals, to address safety concerns from residents.

Portfolio holder of Transport (Roads, Drainage, Pathways), Councillor Glenda Mather, said there have been safety concerns and proof of errant and inexperienced driver behaviour at Farnborough.

“In order to keep public access to the beach, whilst maintaining the safety of both pedestrians and drivers in the shared location, changes need to be made,” Cr Mather said.

“The changes will include upgrades to the access, enforcement of speed limits, and a wider public awareness campaign to educate beachgoers and reinforce safety messaging.”

Council is considering four potential access points and has discussed these issues on numerous occasions. 

A number of options are now being considered and Council is seeking community feedback to help inform this decision.

“The project is in the preliminary concept phases. There are a number of steps to complete before plans go ahead, including consultation with stakeholders groups and the wider community, and securing funding and approval on plans,” Cr Mather said.
“The first stage of stakeholder consultation, which considered upgrades to Hinz Avenue, has been completed.

“During the first stage we spoke, at length, with key stakeholders including Queensland Police Service, National Parks and Wildlife, SeaQ Boardriders, Surf Rider Foundation and Capricorn 4x4 Outdoors, to discuss plans and gather their input about signage, monitoring cameras, pedestrian access, road construction, potential funding for an information hut and other facilities.”

Council have now moved onto the second stage, which involves the consideration of alternative beach access points.

“This involves seeking feedback on access point options, which will help determine what the community prefers,” Cr Mather said. 

Cr Mather said the successful Safety on the Sand event, held on Saturday, was the perfect platform to drive the second part of the consultation. 

“The purpose of the event was to educate the public on how to stay safe on our beautiful beaches,” she said.

“Event goers enjoyed 4WD safety demonstrations, learnt about beach safety and how they can help protect the environment whilst 4WDing.”

To find out more, and to have your say, please visit https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/ 

The online consultation is open now until 12 March, 2021.