Cops on the lookout for law breakers with camping on hold

Any given long weekend would normally see North Queenslander’s away camping but with restrictions still lingering, police are patrolling for any potential law breakers.

Townsville residents relaxing on the Strand after the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. Celeste and Dave Acree with Grace, 3, and Henry, 1, from Garbutt. Picture: Evan Morgan

Any long weekend would normally see North Queenslanders away camping but with restrictions still lingering, police are patrolling for any potential law breakers.

Townsville resident Dave Acree said he got away with his young family when he could but with current restrictions stopping short of lifting the ban on camping, a trip to local parks was the next best thing.

“I’m looking forward to camping opening up again.

“We’ve had to cancel a few planned trips already but both my wife and I work in first response and we know we just have to do this (follow restrictions) right now,” he said.

“We’re a pretty outdoors family anyway so the kids are definitely loving going to the parks.

“Our little girl always points out the closed playgrounds when we drive past and say ‘it’s because of the bad germs’ – they pick up on everything.”

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Eased restrictions were introduced on Saturday allowing for non-essential travel and shopping within 50km from home.

Some national parks were also reopened, however toilets, camping and day facilities remain locked.

Townsville District Duty Officer Acting Inspector Matt Lyons said a number of infringements were issued despite most residents being responsible in obeying the social distancing measures.

A total of 1664 Queenslanders have copped a fine for breaching public health directions since March 27, with 32 across the state since Sunday but it’s unclear if any of those were in the Townsville region.

“We’ve handed out some infringement notices but that’s been for house gatherings and the like,” Insp Lyons said.

“We’re actively patrolling camping sites and finding people are mostly complying.

“I just think people are taking it easy and being sensible about it.”

Originally published as Cops on the lookout for law breakers with camping on hold