RESIDENTS of Prevelly say they were upset to see restored sand dunes being damaged in “traffic chaos” during the Margaret River Pro Men’s Finals on Sunday.
One resident, who wished to withhold her name, said she saw about 20 four-wheel-drives parked on top of dunes and new plants near the roads and carparks.
As well, “the footpath had cars parked all along it, so people either had to walk on the restored dunes or on the road – many families with prams – which was getting pretty dangerous,” she said.
“It was totally out of control and no one was there directing the cars.
“What I question is why were the residents given a pass, when anyone was allowed into Prevelly?”
Though traffic was seemingly unattended near the Rifle Butts Park carpark, clear efforts were made to control traffic in other places, including the intersection of Caves/Wallcliffe Roads and on Surfers Point Rd, leading to the event.
Augusta Margaret River Shire community development and safety manager, Paul Gravett said the additional traffic was a considerable challenge every year during the Pro.
Traffic was managed by the local Shire, Surfing WA, local police, Main Roads and the Margaret River Football Club.
A traffic management plan was drafted by Surfing WA and approved by the Shire, police and Main Roads before the event.
“The plan identifies how traffic can move safely from town into Prevelly, signage, barriers, parking locations, detours and manned check points,” Mr Gravett said.
Shire environmental officers had also worked to identify sensitive areas of dunes and vegetation that required bunting and barricading.
“The vast majority of people are courteous, responsible and adhere to traffic and parking requirements,” Mr Gravett said.
“However, unfortunately, despite thorough planning and additional resourcing, a small minority disregard the traffic arrangements and park in non-designated areas.”
Shire rangers reportedly exercised leniency during the event in recognition of the congestion at the event site, but they determined to issue three fines to cars parked illegally on Sunday.
The effectiveness of traffic and parking arrangements will be among a range of topics discussed at a full event debrief with key stakeholders in the coming weeks.
“We thank the local community for their patience,” Mr Gravett said.
