Grey nomads camping out in the wilds are always hyper-aware of those camping around them, with groups of partying youngsters extremely high on the ‘I-don’t-like-the-look-of-this’ list.
These potentially rowdy gatherings can become more likely during periods like school holidays, and there are hints that the Covid-19 situation this year might move some school leavers’ celebrations from beachside metropolises to the bush.
With many traditional schoolies events being cancelled, social media chatter is apparently signalling a treechange from graduating students … and national park rangers and police are ready to crack down on campsites.
The Courier-Mail newspaper is reporting that – amid a surge in campsite bookings at national parks and State Forests – Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has warned celebrating students that fines will be issued for any offences.
Acting principal ranger Nick Smith says the Agency has been tracking social media and has picked up on posts encouraging students to celebrate at campgrounds.
“The Queensland Police Service will be monitoring the beach and campsites during Schoolies Week for underage drinking, unlicensed driving or inappropriate driving,” Mr Smith told the Courier-Mail. “It is an offence in recreation areas to remove branches from trees or collect fallen branches for firewood in Queensland national parks, and people can be issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice.”
He said many campgrounds were expected to be fully booked out for Friday and Saturday night during Schoolies Week, and he reminded all visitors to have the required permits.
The cancellation of traditional organised schoolies events at places such as the Gold Coast has left many youngsters looking to make alternative arrangements for a celebration.
Send them out to Bourke, Birdsvills or Innaminka….!