CAMPING in car parks and alleyways in Margaret River has been reaffirmed as an illegal practice by the Shire following a number of recent complaints.
Shire Community Development manager Paul Gravett told The Mail the Shire does not grant any exemptions to tourists and backpackers camping illegally in and around town, and advised those concerned to contact Shire rangers on 0419902540 with the location, a description of the offenders and where possible their vehicle and license plate number.
“People who choose to camp are required to use designated camp grounds and accommodation facilities,” Mr Gravett said.
“The Shire has produced a multi-language brochure aimed at improving the awareness and education of those who are working and camping in the region.
“Rangers are doing regular patrols of known hot spots in an effort to reduce the incidences of illegal camping.”
“Hours of patrol vary. If rangers are off duty please leave a voicemail and the report will be attended to at the earliest opportunity”
However, Mr Gravett also said the Shire is working alongside the local tourism bodies and businesses in an effort to reduce the instances of illegal camping.
“The Shire works with local businesses, Police, DPaW, AMRTA, the Wine Industry Associaton, labour hire companies and Chambers of Commerce to develop strategies to curb the frequency and impact of camping including brochure dissemination to workers by labour hire companies, regular patrols, and ongoing communication,” he said.
“We are also looking at longer term options such as allowing short term camping on wineries.”
He also said the influx of backpackers and working holiday campers is welcomed as it is important to local industry such as wineries; however the Shire encourages those working and visiting the area to camp responsibly.
A Margaret River resident, who asked not to be named, said he was disgusted by what he said was the inconsiderate behaviour of people camping illegally at Rotary Park and other places around town.
“I have traveled the world, lived abroad. But I've never behaved like this, or seen such disregard for an area & disrespect for the locals from other travelers for local people as I witness in Margaret River every day.”
