A major change to speed limits at a popular Sunshine Coast camping beach is drawing mixed reactions from locals and visitors, as road safety experts champion the move while some community members voice frustration.
Dylan Anderson
Late last month, Gympie Regional Council reduced the speed limit along a 14-kilometre stretch of Cooloola beach, next to the Teewah Beach camping area, to 40km/h. Previously, drivers could travel up to 80km/h. The reduced limit specifically targets the busy camping area, while other parts of Teewah Beach remain at 80km/h unless otherwise signed.
Authorities are reminding drivers that police will enforce the new limit, especially during the busy holiday season. A local business owner, who supplies ice to campers, warned that many drivers seem unaware of the new rule: "Police have been and will be enforcing this speed limit during the festive season. Slow down and enjoy paradise."
Road Safety Experts Back Lower Speeds
Dr Lauren Pearson, from Sustainable Mobility and Safety Research at Monash University, applauded the change, calling it a smart move for a high-traffic, mixed-use area.
"Reducing speeds in these kinds of areas where people, cars and other vehicles move around is the smart choice," Dr Pearson said.
Dylan Anderson
She highlighted that lower speed limits are one of the most cost-effective ways to protect people in shared spaces like beaches and campgrounds. "Beaches and campgrounds are the kind of places where people, and particularly kids, should be able to enjoy a space without risking serious injury," she added.
Dr Pearson stressed that the evidence in favour of speed reductions is overwhelming, citing their effectiveness in improving both road safety and the overall liveability of public spaces.
Community Split Over New Rules
Despite expert support, not all locals agree. Based on nearly 700 comments on a local post about the new limit, many residents and visitors feel penalised because of a few reckless drivers.
Some commenters suggested restricting young drivers, like P-platers, from beach access to curb dangerous behaviour. Others criticised the new speed limit as excessive.
"40km/h in soft sand is ridiculous. I understand the safety aspects, but this is over the top. Educate your kids that this is a road," one person said.
Dylan Anderson
Another warned that continued misuse could lead to full beach closures to motorists, a sentiment echoed by several others calling for stricter vehicle restrictions to protect wildlife and beachgoers.
Speeding a Major Cause of Death
Speeding remains a significant factor in road fatalities across Australia. Dr Pearson pointed out that road trauma is the leading cause of death for children nationwide.
With Australia's population growing rapidly, she argues that measures like lower speed limits are more necessary than ever to safeguard vulnerable road users, especially in mixed-use areas.
As enforcement ramps up over the busy Easter and holiday periods, authorities are urging drivers to respect the new limits to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone visiting Australia's beloved coastal destinations.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
