Council staff recently cleared the access point, but ongoing maintenance remains unresolved as both sides pursue a sustainable arrangement.

Maintenance scenarios and options were discussed to incorporate upkeep into the annual lifesaving agreement, recognizing the track as a dedicated access route for the lifeguarding club.

Council CEO Ross McKim notes maintenance has been informal and intermittent in the past, and talks are moving to formalize responsibilities within an annual lifesaving agreement.

Council recently cleared the access point temporarily amid lobbying, with ongoing talks to integrate maintenance into the annual lifesaving agreement and to explore various maintenance options.

Club president George Guidice stresses a consistent council commitment to regularly clear sand from the emergency access, ensuring safe and timely access during emergencies.

Guidice also emphasizes regular clearing, especially in windier months, to maintain safety and rapid emergency vehicle access.

Estimated maintenance could take up to a full day and cost around $3,000 per event, covering plant, equipment, staff, and traffic/safety management, a potential barrier to regular cleaning.

Alternative phrasing notes the same: up to a full day of work with about $3,000 per clearing session, including plant, equipment, staff, and traffic/safety costs, cited as a barrier to routine cleaning.

The City of Greater Geraldton and the Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club are negotiating a long-term solution to keep Back Beach emergency access clear for lifeguards and emergency services.

The track is designated as a dedicated access path for the Geraldton Surf Lifesaving Club, with both parties seeking a sustainable solution to ensure consistent access for lifeguards and emergency services.

Ongoing maintenance discussions between the City and the club aim to keep Back Beach’s emergency access path clear for lifeguards and emergency services.

McKim says the goal is a formal, mutually beneficial maintenance plan within an annual lifesaving agreement.