’Tis the season to be jolly, and to be extra careful that you’re not camping in a place you’re not supposed to … especially if you’re in a coastal location.
With the holidaying hordes descending on various slices of paradise all around the country … and many van parks and camping areas already booked out … it’s easy to see why some might be tempted to try ‘stealth camping’.
However, the various authorities are ready for anything, it seems.
Like many others, Shellharbour City Council on the New South Wales South Coast, is stepping up its patrols.
“Our City Regulation Officers will be regularly patrolling Bass Point over the busy summer holiday period,” the council said in a social media post.
It looks like there will be plenty of fines handed out to illegal campers this summer. PIC: Kindel Media / Pexels
“Please be reminded that overnight camping is prohibited, and our officers will be coordinating with our security company at their first and last patrols of the day to determine whether any potential campers are in the reserve … the Department of Primary Industries will also be conducting regular patrols.”
It said there would be extra patrols and an increased police presence at all the city’s reserves, and foreshore and marina precinct, during the summer holidays.
Shellharbour City Council Mayor Chris Homer encouraged everyone to be mindful of signage and follow advice to ensure a safe and happy holiday break.
“Nobody wants a fine, especially at this time of year,” Mayor Homer said. “Pay attention to regulatory signage and be considerate of one another.”
The council also wants to remind visitors to Bass Point Reserve that off-road four-wheel-driving is prohibited in all parts of the reserve. Any driving and parking must be confined to designated roads and car parks within the reserve.
Shellharbour City Council CEO Carey McIntyre said that new regulatory signs were helping encourage drivers to be more careful about where they park.
“These signs were designed to protect the environment by preventing cars from parking in natural areas and damaging vegetation,” he said. “The signs clearly state the opening and closing times for the reserves, as well as information about prohibited activities … we want to ensure that our natural areas remain protected, respected and enjoyed by all users and these proactive measures go a long way towards that.”
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If ever I see NO CAMPING signs placed by councils I know the business in this area don’t need my money so I move on as I have found in the past communities are more friendly and welcome you away from the coast. Coastal Communities are only there to rip off as many People as possible.
It’s far friendlier inland. And the truckies are more friendly also.
Sticker Lickers are always out in South Australia’s, District Council of Yankalilla region, which covers some wonderful ‘not allowed to camp coastal and inland sites’. It’s the go-thru region to get to Kangaroo Island