Quinns Rocks

Quinns Rocks, on Australia's Western Australian coast, became an officially licensed launch site in 2018 after more than 30 years of informal use by local pilots. Takeoff is a clear, astroturfed area at the top of the dunes, which keeps the ground reliable and helps protect the fragile dune vegetation nearby that pilots are asked to avoid disturbing. Because it sits on a public beach, expect spectators, and fly with that in mind. On the right day, the site opens up real cross-country potential heading north, with the chance to link up with sites at Pippidinny Road and further on at Yanchep/Two Rocks. Flying here depends on maintaining a good relationship with the local council, the City of Wanneroo, which must be notified before each day's flying under the terms that keep the site open — details are posted on a sign at the launch itself. It's worth knowing that Dog Beach, a short way south, has higher lift over taller dunes but is a legally protected dog-walking beach where paragliders do not have priority, and that complaints about pilots being a nuisance or flying close calls could put the whole site's future at risk.

Launch & conditions

Takeoff is a clear, astroturfed area at the top of the dunes — take care not to disturb the dune vegetation nearby, and expect spectators on this public beach.

Getting there & local rules

The site operates under conditions set by the City of Wanneroo, which must be notified before each day's flying — check the posted sign on site for current details, as conditions can change or be withdrawn at any time.

Local rules & hazards

Dog Beach, a short way south, offers good lift over higher dunes but is a legislated dog-walking beach where paragliders do not have priority. Complaints to the council about nuisance flying or close calls could result in the site's flying agreement being cancelled or not renewed, so fly considerately.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Quinns Rocks, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Quinns Rocks with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.