Noosa Council has introduced a tow-away zone at one of the region’s most popular holiday spots to crack down on illegal camping. The new measure targets the entrance to Noosa National Park at Noosa Heads, specifically the car park at the junction of Mitti Street and Park Road, which will now be a tow-away zone between 10pm and 4am.
Rob Smith, the Council’s local laws manager, emphasized the strict repercussions for those who violate these rules. “Illegal campers in breach of these restrictions could have their vehicles towed away, facing significant costs to recover them, and the inconvenience of being without transport while it is impounded,” he stated.
This initiative follows the successful implementation of a similar no-parking zone from Noosa Woods to Noosa Spit last year, another hotspot for illegal camping. Smith noted that illegal campers often leave rubbish, demonstrating a disregard for the environment. “We have seen good results from the extra patrols over the summer months but still observe high numbers of illegal campers, even as we move into the winter months,” he added.
The council is considering extending time-limited parking and tow-away zones to other problematic areas if this measure proves effective. “Our target remains those who willfully ignore the restrictions and prevent residents and visitors from enjoying our most popular and beautiful areas,” Smith explained. He highlighted that illegal camping reduces parking availability, impacting local residents.
In the past two weeks alone, officers have issued 40 fines to those deliberately flouting the rules. Noosa Council assured that the region is well-serviced by campgrounds equipped to accommodate vans. Smith warned that anyone considering setting up camp illegally, whether in high-profile car parks or any public areas throughout the shire, could face fines or have their vehicles towed. “Our officers could be undertaking patrols anywhere at any time,” he said.
For those with opinions on this new measure, the Sunshine Coast News invites readers to submit Letters to the Editor via [email protected], including their name and suburb.