Urgent action needed to save Tyagarah nude beach from closure
Urgent action needed to save Tyagarah nude beach from closure
Community unites against abrupt NPWS decision, protests continue
The Tyagarah Clothing-Optional Beach, a cherished site for naturists in New South Wales, Australia, is on the brink of closure, with a deadline set for June 30, 2024, according to an update by petition organizer Bradley Benham. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) announced the closure earlier this year, promising further consultation, but the efforts have been inadequate. Only a single two-hour workshop has taken place since February, leaving the community feeling sidelined and frustrated.1
Community outcry and protests
The local naturist community has been vocal in its opposition to the closure. In February, around 150 people participated in a nude protest at Tyagarah Beach, demonstrating their deep connection to the site. A petition to save the beach has garnered over 7,500 signatures, reflecting widespread support for maintaining its clothing-optional status. Local authorities have also expressed their discontent with NPWS's handling of the situation. Byron Shire Councillor Duncan Dey emphasized the need for proper consultation and supported maintaining the beach's clothing-optional status.
Tyagarah Beach has faced issues with inappropriate behavior, which have been addressed through legal actions and increased security measures. The closure would deprive naturists of a legal and safe space, forcing them to travel over six hours to the nearest alternative at Nelson Bay.
Call to action
With the closure deadline fast approaching, the community is urging supporters—especially Australians—to take immediate action. Here’s how you can help:
Email the minister: Contact Minister Penny Sharpe and appeal to reverse the NPWS decision. Use the suggested text below or personalize it to emphasize your support for Tyagarah Beach.
Email address: office@sharpe.minister.nsw.gov.au
Suggested text:
Dear Minister,
I want a safe and legal clothing-optional beach in the Byron Shire and I believe Tyagarah is the best place for this. I support the case for Tyagarah put forward by Northern Rivers Naturists Inc. I highly value Tyagarah and agree that it is safe, healthy, and accessible. I ask you to reverse the decision by NPWS to close this beach by 30/6/24.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Call the minister’s office: Express your opposition to the closure by calling 02 7225 6020. A simple statement like “I’m calling about the NPWS decision to close Tyagarah nudist beach on June 30. I highly value this beach and ask the Minister to reverse this decision” can be very effective.
Spread the word: Encourage your friends and fellow beach lovers to email and call as well. With only a few days left, collective action is crucial.
Conclusion
The potential closure of Tyagarah Beach represents a significant loss for the naturist community, stripping away one of the few legal nude beaches in New South Wales. Your immediate action can help ensure that this valuable and cherished space remains accessible to everyone. Join the effort to save Tyagarah Beach and protect the rights and freedoms of naturists in the Northern Rivers region. 🪐
Benham, B. (2024, June 23). Act NOW To Stop the Closure of Tyagarah Legal Nude Beach on 30/6! Retrieved from https://www.change.org/p/save-tyagarah-beach-byron-bay-from-closure/u/32701322