Temporary beach closure to protect turtles

Published on 24 September 2019

The impact of vehicles on turtles nesting at world-famous Cable Beach will again be managed with night-time closures from the start of October.

The Cable Beach north access ramp will be closed to vehicles between 8pm and 6am each day during the turtle nesting season from 1 October 2019 to 29 February 2020, and for two hours either side of high tides of 9m or more.

Penalties of up to $200 apply for anyone disregarding the beach closures under Shire of Broome Local Laws.

Broome Shire President, Harold Tracey, said the gate at the Cable Beach Amphitheatre access ramp would be locked during the temporary closures.

“The main species nesting on Cable Beach is the Flatback Turtle, which is threatened and is protected under WA legislation,” Cr Tracey said

“They generally nest at the top of the beach above the high tide mark where their nests can be damaged by vehicles compacting sand and crushing nests.

“Wheel ruts can also prevent hatchlings making their way to the water, and vehicle lights can disturb and confuse hatchlings.”

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Yawuru Rangers will also put protection signage at the front of turtle nests to help improve awareness.

More information on vehicle access and driving techniques during turtle nesting season is available on the Shire website at the link below.