Council urged to act over 'rubbish and human waste' from illegal camping
Magnetic Island residents have demanded Townsville City Council appoint a dedicated ranger after illegal free camping has left human waste and rubbish across the tourist destination.
Magnetic Island residents are asking Townsville City Council to appoint a dedicated ranger to crack down on illegal free-camping over concerns over rubbish and human waste being left behind.
Horseshoe Bay resident Andrew Kerans launched an ePetition which was signed by more than 30 people, urging the council take action to maintain the environment of the tourist hotspot.
Mr Kerans said the issue of free camping, primarily by backpackers, had become “prevalent” on the island.
Camping is prohibited on the island in public areas, such as beaches, national parks, carparks and lookouts, with fines for illegal camping ranging from the minimum of $322 up to the maximum of $3226.
Court-imposed penalties can be handed out for repeat offenders.
Mr Kerans warned the lack of facilities for these illegal campers was ruining the environment for locals and visitors.
“Large amounts of rubbish are left behind and, where there are no toilets, human waste,” the petition said.
“This makes the island less liveable for residents and impacts the experience of genuine tourists.”
Residents have requested the council appoint a ranger on the island specifically empowered with the responsibility to regulate free-camping and illegal parking.
Mr Kerans said this regulation should be done “immediately” to protect the island’s reputation and liveability.
When discussed in the last Townsville City Council meeting councillors voted for the relevant committee to investigate and report back for further consideration.
Councillor Paul Jacobs suggested, after hearing first-hand from residents, that there was a need for an Indigenous Fire Ranger on the island, which was taken on notice.
A Townsville City Council spokesman said camping in Townsville including Magnetic Island was regulated through local laws.
“Council offers conduct proactive patrols to enforce these laws and in response to complaints of illegal camping on Magnetic Island,” the spokesman said.
Anyone who camps in a non-camping area, including on a road, park or beach, may be issued with a penalty infringement notice worth $333.
The spokesman said council had two designated Magnetic Island local law officers who routinely check on known illegal camping sites on the island and respond to reports from the community.
“Members of the public are not advised to directly approach groups of illegal campers, but can assist by calling Council on 13 48 10 and providing information such as the time and place of illegal camping,” the spokesman said.
“Illegal dumping is against the law. Council can and does fine individuals and businesses for littering and illegal dumping. If you see illegal dumping please call Council on 13 48 10 with the location or report it to Council using the Snap Send Solve app.”
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Originally published as Council urged to act over 'rubbish and human waste' from illegal camping
