Parents fined hundreds of dollars after parking crackdown at Maryborough schools

School authorities have contacted the Fraser Coast council after multiple parents were fined hundreds of dollars just before the holidays. But the council says it’s “protecting” little lives.

Angry parents have spoken out after copping fines while trying to pick up their children outside school in Kent St, Maryborough.

Angry parents have spoken out after copping fines while trying to pick up their children outside school in Kent St, Maryborough.

The crackdown from the Fraser Coast Regional Council happened in the weeks before the end of the school term, with parents who had been parking in the same areas outside Maryborough Central State School receiving fines worth hundreds of dollars.

The school put up a post on its Facebook page, asking parents who had been fined to contact the office as the council was being contacted.

Peter McBride, posting in the Maryborough Community Facebook page, said it was “disgusting” that parents were being fined for parking outside Maryborough Central State School.

He said he had been parking in the same spot for four years and had just received a $161 fine.

Kylie Frost said many people had been fined and she had received a ticket when parking near St Mary’s Primary School.

“Targeting school times when you’re trying your best to find a park,” she wrote.

Responding to the concerns, a spokeswoman from the council said ensuring safe parking near schools was “vital to protecting our children”.

“Illegally parked vehicles near schools, playgrounds, and pedestrian crossings create dangerous blind spots, increase congestion, and put young lives at risk. No shortcut is worth a child’s life,” she said.

The crackdown from the Fraser Coast Regional Council happened in the weeks before the end of the school term, with parents who had been parking in the same areas outside Maryborough Central State School receiving fines worth hundreds of dollars.

“Fraser Coast Regional Council remains committed to school zone safety through routine patrols, not enforcement blitzes.

“Over the past two weeks, fines have been issued near Maryborough Central State School, St Mary’s Primary, and Maryborough State High School to deter unsafe parking.

“Council is currently considering correspondence from Maryborough Central State School regarding parents receiving parking fines on Thursday, March 27, including those volunteering or participating in school-related activities.

“These fines were issued for overstaying in time-restricted areas and may also include infringements in bus and loading zones.

“Fines vary depending on the specific offence under Queensland road rules, with penalties including $322 for parking in a bus zone and $645 for parking in a disability bay without a valid permit.

Angry parents have spoken out after copping fines while trying to pick up their children outside school in Kent St, Maryborough.

“Parking regulations ensure safety, accessibility, and fairness for the entire community.

“Whether near schools, shopping areas, or residential streets, compliance with parking rules helps maintain order and prevents hazards for all road users.”

The spokeswoman said motorists were responsible for planning ahead and factoring in parking for extended stays, which may include using longer-term parking options a short walk from their destination.

“To further enhance school zone safety, Council introduced Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology in November 2024, using fixed and mobile cameras to support safer drop-off and pick-up practices.

“Council will continue enforcing parking regulations to safeguard children and ensure fair use of parking spaces across the community.

“We urge all motorists to follow the rules and make responsible parking choices to prevent unnecessary risks.”

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