Shire president Malcolm Heasman said it was vital to have a working party that represented all sections of the community.

‘The strategies developed need to be well supported and we all must take ownership of our environment and how we can continue to use it in a positive and sustainable way, Mr Heasman said.

‘Having lived in Esperance for 37 years, I have enjoyed our ability to drive along our beautiful beaches and would like to see this continue for generations to come.

‘Now is the time to set a few guidelines to encourage those who do not use our dunes and beaches responsibly to look towards the future. One role of the working party will be to identify ways to persuade drivers to stay on tracks, to look after coastal vegetation and prevent dune blowouts.’

The Off Road Vehicle Working Party voting membership will include:

• Two elected members: Councillors Rob Horan and Basil Parker (Lara McIntyre deputy)
• A representative from South Coast NRM
• An Esperance Police representative
• A DPaW representative
• Four community representatives
• There will also be ex-officio members with no voting rights

Nominations for the four community positions are open now. If you are interested in becoming a member please write to Council with your details and a brief description on your knowledge of off road vehicles usage in Esperance and what user group you would be representing.

‘With the level of interest that has been displayed in the Off Road Vehicle Working Group, we need this short explanation from nominees to assist in selecting people who are keen to be involved and work towards positive outcomes for all users,’Mr Heasman said.

‘When strategies are proposed we want to know that these will be well supported in the community.’

Click below for the terms of reference which outline the role of the working party, membership, term of office, meeting procedures and a list of designated powers and duties.

Nominations need to be in writing and received at the Shire of Esperance by close of business on January 17, 2015.

Terms_of_Reference_Shire_of_Esperance_Off_Road_Vehicle_Working_Group_ORVWG_Final.pdf