45 fines issued to travellers camping illegally in Margaret River

Visitors travelling to the Margaret River Region intending to free camp are being warned to reconsider amidst concerns over environmental damage to bushland and increased bushfire risk.

This morning, 45 fines were issued to a group of travellers camping illegally in the Wooditjup National Park just outside of Margaret River townsite.

Shire of Augusta Margaret River Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Rangers, and the Police are working closely to deal with the spike in illegal camping.    

Shire Ranger Coordinator Narelle Graue said the region was renowned for its pristine natural environment and the high volume of campers setting up in the bush with no toilets, or rubbish disposal facilities was putting significant pressure on bushland areas.

“Whilst we welcome visitors to our region, there are no free camping spots in our Shire.

“The true cost of this type of camping is paid for by the environment and indirectly by residents whose rates go towards cleaning up the rubbish left behind, rehabilitating trampled bushland, and covering water bills from travellers relying on public showers and other facilities.

“Our visitor numbers peak at this time of year, with little accommodation or campsites available last-minute.

“Travellers intending to live out of their vehicles need to have made arrangements at official campsites or on private properties before arriving.

“If you are looking for seasonal work, there are a number of wineries allowing workers to park their vehicles and stay as part of their work entitlements.

“We recommend contacting your employer or prospective employer to discuss accommodation options if you are unable to find somewhere to stay or lose your accommodation while employed in the region.

“Local residents who are willing to offer spare rooms or a space for travellers to park are encouraged to advertise on Margaret River Backpackers Facebook group or on Gumtree,” she said.

Shire Emergency Services Manager Adam Jasper said illegal camping presented a major safety concern around bushfires, particularly with the dryer than usual conditions being observed.

“We’ve recently had two major bushfire incidents in our Shire, with official campsites evacuated in the nick of time, and several people’s belongings burned to the ground.

 “Firefighters won’t know where you are if you’re free camping in the bush, and I’ve seen fires move so quickly they can create incredibly dangerous situations in a short period of time.

“Our bushland is tinder-dry, with conditions as dry as we’d usually only expect at the end of summer,” he said.

“Bush cooking on open stoves or lighting campfires in undesignated spots can unintendedly cause a bushfire.

“This creates a very real risk to the surrounding community where people live and work,” he said.

Illegal camping carries a $100 penalty, and illegal dumping $200.