The appalling behaviour of campers on cattle stations in WA’s north has seen access to some favourite sites and fishing spots restricted.
Pastoralist Jack Burton, who owns several properties in the Kimberley, says he has lost patience with the lack of respect shown by visiting campers and fishers
“We are trying to run a cattle station and it’s just really frustrating with the lack of respect people have with leaving gates open, leaving rubbish, cutting new roads everywhere, so we want to stop it getting out of hand,” he told the ABC. “The thing we’re getting now is everyone’s pushing further and harder into little spots and we’ve got tracks everywhere … it means we are re-mustering everywhere because people are leaving gates open and cutting fences.”
Mr Burton is now insisting that, in future, people register and collect a key to access some sections of the Fitzroy River, which fall within the boundaries of Yeeda Station.
“All we’re asking people to do is have a bit of respect for the fact that they’re visiting our property and we’re trying to run a business there,” he said.
The ABC reports that the new rules mean people wanting to fish at Tumblegoodiron, Broken Water and the Lower Logue will need to register at the nearby Willare Roadhouse, leaving a deposit of some sort to be given a key to the gated areas. Local fishers will still be allowed to visit the most popular weekend fishing spots of Telegraph Pool and Langi Crossing.
Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association president David Stoate said cattle stations were legally private property, although historically there had been a relaxed attitude to allowing visitors in to waterholes and scenic spots.
“In many ways it’s not surprising Jack Burton’s taken this action, and he is certainly well within his rights to do so, as the public doesn’t have the automatic right of entry onto a pastoral lease,” he said.
Mr Stoate, who runs Anna Plains Station south of Broome, told the ABC that biosecurity was another consideration, with tourist traffic increasing the risk of insects and diseases being moved between properties.
“Biosecurity will only become more and more important,” he said. “It’s not surprising that this action has been taken and it certainly could happen in other parts of the Kimberley and Pilbara.”
* Comment below
Good on them, the few stuff it for the many, if I ever get the privilege to go there I would gladly fill in a register an if required even a bond or small fee. Would love to buy my host a drink or 6 and say thank you for allowing me the privilege to be their guest.
Totally agree with you.
Well that’s a pity as some idiots make it harder for the genuine people. We are looking forward to visiting some Kimberley stations this season as we have a farm and love that lifestyle and are heading that way having just left Darwin from Melbourne..
So sad to see that there are the disrespectful few spoiling it in the Kimberleys for those of us that do the right thing – pleased I am seeing this place this year before it is all locked up and banned because of the few that don’t give a shxt.
As usual, it only take one to stuff it up for many.
Its not hard to leave no footprints…
I’ll glady sign and leave a deposit for keys.
Sad state of affairs but it seems to be getting more & more stuffing it up, think many have the attitude that they won’t be back & just do as they like, no respect for sure.
Happy to do what is required to enable the station to remain open for those who always show respect. That’s what’s wrong here…..some people have none.