Residents divided as campers take over Gold Coast beaches and parks

Residents have vented their anger over city spaces being used as “caravan parks” – read the council’s plan to tackle the issue. VOTE IN THE POLL

City council says patrols will be ramped up heading into the peak Christmas holiday period after residents reported campers had taken over two Gold Coast parks.

Locals took to social media to complain about camping activity at both Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Winders Park in Currumbin on Friday morning.

Surfers Paradise residents are annoyed over a number of people camping at Budds Beach. Picture: Jerad Williams

“Hey, free camping at Budds Beach,” one social media user wrote.

“More and more camper vans every night. This is just one section.

“They should open a caravan park.”

But many defended the campers, pointing out the housing crisis had forced many to sleep in cars or tents due to a lack of available housing stock.

A Gold Coast City Council spokeswoman said it was illegal to sleep overnight in a vehicle parked in a public place.

Surfers Paradise residents are annoyed over a number of people camping at Budds Beach. Picture: Jerad Williams

“The city is aware of illegal camping at popular areas such as Surfers Paradise and Burleigh and conducts regular patrols,” she said.

“Illegal camping patrols are increased during the peak holiday period.”

Residents are being urged to report illegal camping to the city via the app, online or by phoning 07 5667 5991.