A joint taskforce from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River and City of Busselton is altering its approach in addressing the challenges posed by increased visitor numbers during peak seasons in the Capes region. The taskforce, in its draft report presented to councillors last week, has opted to pivot away from the term “illegal camping” towards a more encompassing focus on “peak season pressures.
The preliminary findings underscore that many issues traditionally associated with illegal camping are actually symptomatic of broader factors linked to heightened visitation and evolving visitor behaviors within the region’s attractions. The report suggests that a singular emphasis on illegal camping may overlook key issues faced by residents during peak seasons.
The taskforce highlighted instances where residents mistakenly identified visitors utilizing popular areas until late evening, after which they relocated elsewhere. This underscores the complexities involved in distinguishing between genuine illegal camping and legitimate visitor activities.
Drawing from past experiences, the taskforce revisited the efforts of a previous group established in 2011, which failed to yield tangible outcomes in alleviating pressures on public spaces from illegal camping and seasonal housing shortages for workers in the wine and tourism sectors.
However, the current taskforce acknowledges significant changes over the past decade, including a resurgence in van life and a more mobile global workforce post-pandemic. It notes that tourism visitation has doubled since the last investigation into illegal camping in 2012-13, underscoring a substantial rise in visitor numbers.
The issue has sparked considerable community discussion, with residents expressing concerns over illegal camping on social media platforms. Concurrently, objections were raised during the rates advertising process, advocating for the establishment of overflow facilities for van travelers.
Residents have proposed practical solutions, such as developing camping facilities with nominal fees for backpackers instead of issuing fines that may go unpaid. The concept of an overflow facility has been floated, contingent upon compliance with governmental regulations.
Addressing enforcement challenges, the taskforce acknowledges that fines for illegal camping may be insufficient deterrents, particularly when van users can evade penalties by avoiding interactions with rangers. Proposals for adjusting permitted parking times at beaches have also been tabled for consideration.
As the taskforce progresses towards its September council report, it aims to refine strategies that encompass a broader spectrum of peak season challenges beyond the scope of traditional illegal camping enforcement.