With just one more sleep until Christmas Day, most grey nomads will now be safely set up at their chosen festive camping spot … whether that be out in the bush, at a national park, caravan park, or perhaps at the home of friends or family.
And that’s definitely a good thing.
There is huge demand for campsites around the country with many booked out, and the traffic is predictably heavy … with the odd very nasty accident.
In south-east Queensland, 4BC traffic reporter Olympia Kwitowski said there were still a lot of caravans on the road, and she said it was particularly difficult to predict traffic patterns this year after the lockdowns and border rules of the previous two festive seasons.
Many caravan parks and camping areas are going to be very, very busy this festive season. PIC: Cizza
“It feels like it’s been different to other years with Covid, so it’s hard to tell which day will be the busiest on the roads, but it could be Boxing Day,” she said.
It’s a similar story across the country.
In New South Wales, double demerit points will apply until 11.59pm on Monday, January 2.
Acting Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said everyone has a role to play on the roads these holidays.
“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast because the road is familiar, or getting behind the wheel when tired, but we have road rules for a reason because we want everyone to arrive safely at their destination this holiday period,” he said. “While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
And with so much traffic, it’ no surprise that bookings are heavy at most accommodation providers. In Queensland, the Gympie Today publication reports that campgrounds and caravan sites, including in national parks, have attracted big numbers from Imbil and Goomeri to the Cooloola Coast.
And anyone who hasn’t already organised a spot and decides to ‘try their luck’ by staying at a reserve or parking area where camping is not allowed could easily run into trouble, with enforcement patrols being ramped up over the holiday periods in many locations.
In Geelong in Victoria, for example, CCTV cameras and electronic warning signs are being installed across the popular Eastern Beach area in readiness for a massive tourist influx.
The City of Greater Geelong has warned people not to camp illegally, and said police and local law officers would be patrolling the area.
The city issued three infringement notices for illegal camping at Eastern Beach during the 2020-21 summer, during which time the Geelong Advertiser received numerous reports of illegal camping at the site.
The Geelong Advertiser reports that increased local laws patrols of the area are expected to help reduce potential issues such as open fires and illegal parking and camping, while police will focus on drinking, traffic and behaviour.
Grey Nomad Members now have the opportunity to win six 750ml eco flat bottles of Pinot Grigio (total value of $96) from Banrock Station.
The new eco-flat wine bottle is made entirely from Australian-sourced 100% recycled PET plastic, which is 83% lighter than a glass bottle. The slimmer, flatter profile allows twice as many bottles to fit in a standard wine case.
It’s lighter to carry, takes up less space in your van, is easy to store in your fridge or esky, and is great for life on the road.
* GN Members … Click here to enter
* Haven’t joined yet? Click here to learn about GN member benefits, how to join … and how to win!
