WITH the school holidays looming and Spring in the air, it’s a great time to go beach driving on the glorious sands of Hawks Nest.

But as one couple found out on the weekend, a drive on the beach can also be full of pitfalls.

The overseas tourists, became bogged not once,  but twice.

The first time around, locals stopped to help the couple who had no idea how to solve their predicament.

A tow got them free and all seemed well.

Just to be on the safe side, their local rescue team waited at the Mungo Brush to ensure they made it off the beach safely, as it was almost nightfall.

“Everyone should have a beach recovery kit on board  and knowledge of the area,”  good samaritan Sean McKeough told the News Of The Area.

When the tourists failed to appear, sure enough they were stuck  knee deep again.

This time Mr McKeough drove the tourists’ car off the beach and there were hugs all round.

Hawks Nest local and Beach Recovery expert, Darren Rapley has been pulling vehicles out of the sands for more than 20 years.

“I’d average between 40 and 50 rescues a year,” said Darren.

“In one week I pulled 6 vehicles out.  I’ve even had to recovery a light plane after it made an emergency landing.”

Mr Rapley said that one of the main things to remember is to let your tyres well down before you go driving in the sand.

“Automatic cars also tend to bog more easily,” said Darren.

“Follow the tracks made by other 4 wheel drivers and avoid going to near the water.”

Everyone who drives on the beach needs a special permit which can be obtained from the local Newsagencies in Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens.

The Midcoast Council webpage “Beach Vehicle Permit Site”also has the do’s & don’ts when it comes to beach driving.

 

By Margie TIERNEY