The cost of camping at a council-run caravan park near Port Douglas is going from $25 a night to $40 in a single hit. The new fee structure at the Wonga Beach Caravan Park will come into effect on July 1 … just as the grey nomad influx normally kicks into high gear.
The Cairns Post reports that the increase is steeper still for a weekly reservation, which has gone up 80% from $140 to $252.
Not surprisingly, local businesses are concerned that the huge hike will frighten away visitors to the area – most of whom are retirees. The owner of the Wonga Beach service station, Kathy Jordison, told the Cairns Post that the annual influx of campers was vital for local businesses.
“A lot of them travel a fair distance to get here,” she said. “And I don’t think they will come here any more because it’s gone up so high.” The fee hike makes the council caravan park more expensive than the nearby Pinnacle Village Holiday Park.
Councillor Julia Leu, whose Division 10 covers Wonga Beach, is reportedly furious at the 60% increase and has demanded the council review its decision.
“It’s an unreasonable increase given the type of facilities the council caravan park offers,” said Cr Leu, who is also concerned the move will encourage illegal camping. Price rises will also affect camp grounds at Palm Cove, Fitzroy Island and Bramston Beach.
