An illegal camping blitz has been undertaken at major hotspots in Noosa.
Council’s local laws officers and Queensland Police targeted Noosa Spit, Noosa Junction and Noosa National Park over the weekend, issuing $322 fines to more than 30 illegal campers.
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie said it follows growing frustration from locals.
“Residents were understandably frustrated with our streets, parks and gardens being used as campgrounds and toilets,” he said.
“I deeply appreciate residents’ patience on this issue that had escalated during the months of protected industrial action.
“Our team is back working in partnership with the QPS to address illegal camping and provide referrals and support for those who are genuinely homeless.”
Development and Regulation Director Richard MacGillivray said information from the community about where illegal campers were congregating had helped guide the weekend blitz.
“While we undertake patrols all over the shire, the weekend’s joint operation with QPS concentrated on the major problem areas of Noosa Spit, Noosa National Park and Lanyana Way at Noosa Junction,” he said.
“Recently most of the complaints we’ve received about illegal camping have been in relation to these locations,” he said.
Mr MacGillivray said Council was aware of other problem areas across the shire including along the eastern beaches and near the Noosa River, which upcoming enforcement efforts will target – both Council’s regular patrols and jointly with QPS.
“We have a number of purpose-built campgrounds across the shire with current capacity to accommodate campervans, where travellers can park overnight and access barbecues, rubbish bins, toilet and shower facilities,” he said.
“Our carparks and streets were never intended for use as camping areas.
Campervan travellers planning to stay overnight on Noosa’s streets and carparks are on notice to expect a $322 fine, which is more than what they would pay for a night at one of the local campgrounds.
Mr MacGillivray said some people camping in vehicles were not travellers, but local people left homeless by the recent housing crisis and other challenging circumstances.
“In these instances, our staff exercise compassion and wherever possible our staff will assist with referrals to state support services that may be able to provide temporary accommodation and other support.”
