AUSTRALIA: Over 150 people recently gathered on Tyagarah Beach near Byron Bay to protest against the planned closure of the nude beach.
The beach has been classified as “clothing optional” since 1998, drawing a mix of people of all sizes and shapes to enjoy its 800m of sand. However, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, which manages the land, is seeking to revoke its status as a nude beach.
PHOTOS The Nude Blogger, Rod Currie, Ben Wicks/Unsplash, Planet Nude
Amongst the protestors was Jessa O’Brien (aka The Nude Blogger), who said the decision to close the beach had “blindsided” the community, who enjoy the freedom of the beach. “We have no idea what the basis for this decision has actually been, that’s the biggest thing; we just want in on the conversation,” she commented.
A petition to keep the nude beach has already garnered over 2600 signatures. If the status is revoked, nude bathers could face fines of up to AUS$1100.