Mungo Beach in Myall Lakes National Park north of Newcastle was reopened today after it was temporarily closed to vehicles three weeks ago due to severe beach erosion.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Lower North Coast Region Manager Anthony Signor said milder weather conditions during the past week had resulted in significant quantities of sand being naturally deposited back on the beach, improving conditions for 4WD beach driving.

“Since we closed the beach in early March we have regularly monitored conditions to ensure Mungo Beach could be re-opened to vehicles as soon as it was considered safe to do so,” Mr Signor said.

“Visitors are advised that a number of sections of the beach are still narrow and vehicle access may be impacted by high tides and large seas,” he said. “Drivers need to plan their travel to avoid high tide periods.”

Mr Signor said Myall Lakes National Park traditionally hosted thousands of visitors during the Easter break, many of whom were expected to take to the beaches in their 4WDs.

“To protect fragile environments, we remind beach drivers to please stay off dunes—including back tracks—and vegetated areas.

“NPWS staff will continue monitor beach conditions and implement temporary closures when beaches are unsafe for vehicle use.”

For further information contact the NPWS Great Lakes Area office on 02 6591 0300 during business hours Monday to Friday, or visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au