A new Queensland-led global study has reignited a heated debate over four-wheel drive (4WD) access to beaches, with scientists warning that off-road vehicles are causing widespread ecological damage across the state’s most iconic coastal areas.
Dylan Anderson
Study Finds Widespread Harm to Beach Ecosystems
Researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast examined 253 dune and shoreline species across 20 international studies. Their findings were clear: off-road vehicles, including 4WDs, are linked to significant harm to beach ecosystems. This includes damage to vegetation, invertebrates such as pipis and crabs, and disruptions to the natural movement of sand dunes.
Lead researcher Professor Thomas Schlacher said there is no safe level of beach driving.
"It only takes one vehicle to cause very severe impacts. The only thing that works is removing vehicles from large portions of the beach."
He stressed that even hard-packed sand contains vital life forms that are crushed under tyres, affecting the food chain and natural cycles of the coastline.
Queensland Beaches in the Spotlight
Beaches such as Rainbow Beach, Bribie Island, K'gari (Fraser Island), and Noosa North Shore have become hotspots for beach driving. With no cap on vehicle permits, some areas have seen more than 1,200 vehicles on the sand in a single day.
Bribie Island conservation advocate Darren Jew says the situation is dire.
"At high tide, there’s barely any beach left. It becomes chaos. Hatchlings get stuck in ruts made by 4WDs and die before reaching the ocean."
Illegal dune driving has led to the destruction of turtle nests and serious habitat disruption.
Dylan Anderson
Mixed Reactions from the Community
While conservationists call for strict bans, 4WD groups argue that access and environmental protection can coexist. Brett Lynch, president of the Bundaberg 4WD Club, said their members regularly contribute to conservation efforts through beach clean-ups and educational initiatives.
"We’re not the villains. We've worked with councils on compromises like night-time driving bans during turtle season."
What Happens Next?
Queensland Environment Minister Andrew Powell acknowledged the study and promised to consider its findings.
"My job is to find a balance between conservation and allowing Queenslanders to enjoy our natural assets."
But Professor Schlacher warned that without firm action, beach ecosystems will continue to degrade.
"We have to ask ourselves: is this the legacy we want to leave the next generation?"
Dylan Anderson
The Bigger Picture
Victoria has already banned beach driving, and South Australia is introducing restrictions. Queensland, however, continues to permit 4WD access on most beaches, with limited regulation.
As 4WD sales remain strong and more drivers seek out coastal escapes, the pressure on Queensland’s beaches will only grow.
The question now is whether Queensland will lead in protecting its coastal treasures – or wait until it’s too late.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
