A local nudist group has asked Nambucca Shire Council to designate part of Valla Beach as a ‘clothing optional’ zone.
The proposed 300m long stretch of beach, 100m south of the entrance to Deep Creek, would legally allow people to swim and walk naked.
According to its submission to council’s regular meeting tonight (16th), the Nambucca Valley Nudist Group believed the introduction of a clothing optional beach in the shire would increase tourism.
“There are many nudists throughout Australia and the world who travel for business or pleasure,” the submission said.
“They often travel through the Nambucca Shire and are disappointed to not be able to pursue their chosen lifestyle at a designated clothes optional beach.”
The closest beaches of this kind are in South West Rocks in the south and Coffs Harbour in the north.
Nambucca Shire Council’s general manager Michael Coulter has recommended that councillors vote to refer the request to the Valla Beach Urban and Hall Committee for comment, and to the NSW Police Force “given perceptions associated with nude beaches attracting perverts and associated crime”.
The Nambucca Valley Nudist Group said the aim for the area would be to create a ‘safe, family orientated environment’ for local and visiting nudists that is accessible and close to toilet facilities.
The Valla Beach Urban and Hall Committee had not been informed of the proposal until contacted by the Guardian News and does not have a position on the proposal at this stage.
The committee is encouraging local people to have their say on the issue at the group’s public, quarterly meeting at the Valla Beach Hall on November 17 at 7pm.