BACK TO BASICS: Nude gathering at Tyagarah Beach, 2007. The Northern Star Archives

NUDE bathing looks set to continue at Tyagarah Beach, at least in the short term.

Byron Shire Councillors decided not to follow a staff recommendation to revoke a 1998 clothes-optional declaration.

Instead, a recommendation from Councillor Paul Spooner was adopted that will see the beach stay open for nude bathing while council investigates suitable alternative locations in the shire where clothes-optional bathing may be declared.

The recommendation to close the beach to nude/clothes-optional bathing came from the council's compliance team leader, David Murray, following complaints of anti-social behaviour in the area.

There was also concern that the original declaration may not have been valid because the management of that area rests with Crown Lands, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Marine Parks Authority.

The recommendation also states the council should consult with relevant community groups and state agencies about managing anti-social behaviour in regards to nude bathing.

Cr Spooner said it was clear to councillors that the issue of nude bathing was important to the community.

A report will be prepared for councillors to inform determinations regarding clothes-optional bathing and any future declarations.

Reader poll Would you ever go nude at the beach? This poll ended on 16 August 2013. Current Results I do it all the time. 53% Sure would! 32% I have once before, but never again - Some things can not be unseen. 0% I might give it a go once or twice if I got the chance. 8% Not in a million years. 2% Not sure. 1% This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate.