Beach track renaming a step closer
Published 16 July 2025
The legacy of an inspirational teen who died doing what he loved is a step closer to being honoured by City of Moreton Bay after Council voted to open up the prospect of renaming a Woorim Beach track in his name.
Harrison ‘Harry’ Payne was 18 when he tragically lost his life in a 4WD crash on Woorim Beach in May 2021, leaving behind devastated friends and family.
At the General Meeting on 16 July, Council voted unanimously to approve the renaming of Ocean Beach Access Track to ‘Harrison Payne Track’, subject to the outcome of public feedback of the name change.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the proposed renaming was a way to pay tribute to Harry and his passion for the outdoors.
“I’m told Harry was an exceptional young man with a bright personality that would uplift others everywhere he went. He was a role model for our community and this vote ensures Council moves a step closer to honouring his legacy,” he said.
“Harry’s family have since created the Harrison Payne Initiative - a not-for-profit that aims to create change around beach safety, 4WD safety, and road safety while providing support for families who have experienced similar tragedies.
“I commend the Payne family for turning such a tragedy into a positive force for change through this initiative and hope the community will be strongly supportive of this proposed renaming.”
Under Council’s proposal, a history board would be installed in conjunction with the track signage to explain the connection Harry had with the area.
Division 1 Councillor Brooke Savige said she strongly supported the track renaming in Harry’s honour.
“Harry lived his life to the fullest and his story reminds us that every day is precious when it comes to family,” she said.
“By council endorsing this proposal, we encourage others in the community to learn more about Harry’s example and the wonderful work being done by his family through the Harrison Payne Initiative. I have no doubt they have already saved lives.”
Mayor Flannery thanked Pumicestone MP Ariana Doolan and State Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg for making the initial requests to Council for renaming the access track.
“I appreciate their correspondence and advocacy on this important matter,” he said.
Ms Doolan said she was honoured to have lent her voice to the proposed renaming of the track.
“When the Payne family first came to me with this request, I was immediately supportive,” she said.
“This proposal reflects the family’s wish to honour Harry’s memory and create a lasting tribute. Together, we can make a real difference when it comes to being safe on our beaches.”
City of Moreton Bay will now seek public feedback on the action. Non-supportive submissions received over the 28-day consultation period will see the proposed action brought back to Council for reconsideration.