Tasmania’s glowing reputation as a free camping friendly destination could be about to take a bit of a battering.
Over the past decade, councils up and down the island state have seized the initiative and, in a bid to attract their share of the lucrative grey nomad market, have set up many free campsites.
It’s a gesture that has been appreciated by an endless army of travelers, and has resulted in huge economic benefits for many communities hosting more grey nomads for longer periods of time.
However, the good times could be about to end. A number of Tasmanian caravan park owners have joined forces and complained to the economic regulator about anti-competitive behaviour … and their arguments have found favour.
Lloyd Meakin from Gowrie Caravan Park says a free camping spot just 300 metres away from his business has hammered his bottom line. It is estimated that the free camping area cost him between $20,000 and $30,000 over the summer season.
“I want to be able to employ local people,” said Lloyd. “I don’t have a problem with free camping, it shouldn’t be paid by ratepayers’ money.”
Hmmm! And the economic regulator agrees.
Spokeswoman Jane Hyland says the private operators are required to pay for things like insurance, rates and rubbish collection.
“The caravan park owners have these costs and are applying charges that reflect these costs, and local councils should be doing the same thing.” she said. “That doesn’t allow competition on an even footing.”
Eek!
Happily, the regulator’s recommendations are non-binding, and Tassie’s nomad-loving councils are in no hurry to risk having convoys of motorhomes and caravans grey nomads bypass their municipalities.
“The cost to collect money from people overnight would be significant,” said Kentish Mayor, Don Thwaites,. “It would make it unviable for us to do that … not a good idea.”
Spot on, Don. Not a good idea at all!
