A well-used stretch of coastline at Woorim in Bribie Island now carries a new name — and a message the Moreton Bay community hopes will resonate for years to come. The Ocean Beach Access Track has officially been renamed the Harrison Payne Track, honouring local teenager Harrison “Harry” Payne, who lost his life in a 4WD crash at the beach in 2021.
Read: Push To Rename Bribie Beach Track Gains Momentum
The dedication, led by the City of Moreton Bay, marks a significant moment for Harry’s family and the wider community. Harry was 18 when the crash occurred, a loss that deeply affected those who knew him. The renaming followed a request submitted earlier this year by Pumicestone MP Ariana Doolan on behalf of the Payne family, and Council later approved the proposal unanimously following public consultation.
A new sign now marks the track, acknowledging Harry’s passion for the outdoors and the happiness he brought to the people around him. More than a memorial, the sign also includes details about the Harrison Payne Initiative, the not-for-profit established by his family to promote beach safety, 4WD awareness, and responsible driving, while also supporting families who have experienced similar loss.
It is hoped that drivers passing through will pause long enough to reflect on Harry’s story and consider the importance of safe and responsible driving.
The track renaming was celebrated on 16 November during a community day at Woorim Beach organised by the Payne family. Locals gathered to pay tribute and recognise the ongoing work of the Initiative, which has drawn strong community support since its establishment. The Initiative continues to share messages about road and beach safety, centred on the theme “Strength to Change.”
Local leaders have emphasised the need for caution on beaches and the importance of decision-making behind the wheel. The track’s new name serves as a symbolic reminder to beachgoers of the responsibility they carry.
For Harry’s parents, Kent and Kylie, the dedication is both a tribute and a commitment to preventing further tragedies. They have spoken about their hope that the sign will encourage greater mindfulness among beach users. The family believes that if even one person slows down, pays closer attention, or reconsiders their driving habits because of Harry’s story, the renaming will have created meaningful change.
The community day reflected this shared purpose, carrying an emotional yet hopeful atmosphere that underscored how Harry’s story has unified people around the message of safer driving. Local councillors expressed admiration for the Payne family’s efforts, noting that the Initiative has sparked important conversations about the risks associated with beach driving.
Read: Bribie Island Cycling Community Mourns Beloved Member After Tragic Accident
While the loss of Harry remains deeply felt across Bribie Island and the wider Moreton Bay region, the newly named track offers a lasting way to honour his memory. It stands as a reminder of a young man who loved the beach and the outdoors and cherished time spent with friends and family. Now, his name will guide beachgoers each year, reinforcing the message that every journey should end safely.
Featured image credit: Facebook/The Harrison Payne Initiative Inc
Published 20-November-2025
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