1. Introduction
From the Victorian High Country to Western Australia’s coastal dunes and Queensland’s iconic K’gari (Fraser Island), track closures are reshaping how Australians access their national parks. While authorities highlight safety and environmental concerns, the solution is not division. It is collaboration. Advocacy groups such as the Australian Recreational Motorists Association (ARMA) are calling for all stakeholders, including four-wheel drive clubs, horse-riding associations, hiking groups and park authorities, to come together around one table to create a fair and sustainable future for outdoor access.
2. Why Are Tracks Closing Nationwide?
Across Australia, closures are being driven by multiple factors:
Victoria
Seasonal closures in Alpine and Snowy River National Parks aim to prevent track damage during wet months and protect biodiversity. Some closures now extend into December due to persistent wet conditions.
Western Australia
Coastal councils have adopted a master plan to shut down unofficial beach tracks following severe dune erosion and habitat destruction. Cameras and signage will enforce compliance.
Queensland
Popular destinations such as K’gari and Moreton Island require permits for vehicle access, with strict limits to protect fragile ecosystems.
New South Wales
Floods and landslips have forced closures in Barrington Tops, Morton and Budawang National Parks, with some areas inaccessible for months.
Authorities emphasise that closures are essential for safety and conservation, not punishment.
3. The 1 Percent Problem
The reality is that 99 percent of bush users, including drivers, hikers and horse riders, do the right thing. It is the small minority, often referred to as the “1 percenters”, who ignore closures, damage fragile environments and create a negative impression. Influencers and advocacy groups agree that education and enforcement are key to preventing the few from ruining it for the many.
4. Impacts Beyond Four Wheel Driving
Track closures affect a wide range of outdoor users:
Bushwalkers
Iconic trails such as Tasmania’s Overland Track and sections of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area have faced temporary shutdowns due to fires and erosion.
Horse Riders
Studies show that unmanaged horse riding can accelerate soil compaction and vegetation loss, requiring careful planning for shared-use trails.
Regional Communities
Tourism operators in Western Australia and Victoria report economic losses when tracks and trails close for extended periods.
5. Influencer Voices Join the Push
Graham Cahill, one of Australia’s most respected four-wheel drive personalities, recently addressed the issue:
“Track closures are not just about park authorities being difficult. It is about damage caused by a few who ignore the rules. Ninety-nine percent of us respect the bush, but the 1 percent who rip up tracks or drive in closed areas give everyone a bad name. If you love this lifestyle, do the right thing. Stay on marked tracks, respect closures and leave no trace.”
Watch Graham Cahill discuss the issue here:
6. Voices from The Outer Side
The Outer Side podcast has been a driving force behind the recent petition calling for greater transparency in national park management. Host Tony Crooke emphasised that the issue extends far beyond four-wheel drivers:
“This is not just about four-wheel drive users. It affects everyone who enjoys the outdoors, including campers, hikers and horse riders. We need a united approach to ensure fair access for all recreational users.”
(Paraphrased from The Outer Side petition update and podcast discussions)
The podcast repeatedly highlights the importance of collaboration between recreational communities and decision-makers, urging people to stay informed and engaged in policy discussions.
Watch The Outer Side’s petition discussion here:
7. ARMA’s National Call for Unity
ARMA is leading the charge for collaboration:
“Our mission is simple. Link, support, represent. We believe in fair access policies and genuine consultation. Unity is essential to influence policy and prevent further loss of access.”
ARMA wants clubs, associations and park authorities at the same table, not in conflict but in partnership:
“We need representatives from four-wheel drive clubs, horse riding groups, hiking associations and park authorities working together. Stronger together is not just a slogan. It is the only way forward.”
8. The Bigger Picture
State agencies are investing millions in eco-tourism infrastructure, but without inclusive planning, traditional activities like four-wheel drive touring and horse riding risk being sidelined. ARMA argues that collaboration now will prevent future lockouts.
9. Call to Action: Stronger Together
Do not let the 1 percent define us. Ninety-nine percent of bush users do the right thing. Let’s keep it that way.
- Join ARMA and become part of the solution.
- Encourage your club or association to reach out and sit at the table with park authorities and ARMA.
- Advocate for education, sustainable practices and fair access.
Visit arma.net.au and get involved today.
Bibliography
- Parks Victoria – Seasonal Road Closures
- WA Coastal Track Closures – ABC News
- Queensland Parks – Vehicle Access Permits
- NSW Flood Closures – 4×4 Australia
- Graham Cahill Q&A – YouTube
- The Outer Side Petition Coverage – Drive.com.au
- ARMA Advocacy – arma.net.au
- Environmental Impacts of Horse Riding – Loudoun Wildlife
- Tasmanian Wilderness Bushwalker Impact Study