‘Absolutely disgusting’: Aussie’s Dreamworld parking decision infuriates

It was supposed to be an enjoyable day out at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast, but this single photo has sparked utter outrage.

When one parking space isn’t enough, why not take up four or five.

An Aussie caravanning enthusiast has sparked outrage online after being photographed nestled across five mobility parking spaces on a visit to Dreamworld on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

The photo, taken from multiple angles, showed the driver making the “disgusting” decision to park their vehicle and caravan over not one but five spaces at the entry of the theme park.

Driving a black Toyota LandCruiser with a large caravan in tow, the vehicle displayed a mobility sticker — entitling them to a single space at the theme park.

The driver, while having a disability sticker on his car, took up five accessible spaces at Dreamworld.

But what’s sparked the anger from users of social media and visitors to theme park is the amount of mobility spaces absorbed by this single driver.

“Totally unacceptable,” one wrote on the image of the vehicle and caravan.

“This driver had a disabled card but thought it was OK to take all the disabled car spots up with his caravan and car. Absolutely disgusting.”

Another said the move was “completely selfish” and “inconsiderate”.

“The carpark is usually so full so taking up all those extra spots prevents other disabled people from parking close by.”

In a statement to news.com.au, Dreamworld said parking etiquette in this instance had clearly been ignored, and despite offering an alternate solution to the driver — they refused to move the car and caravan.

“At Dreamworld, we are committed to providing a safe, accessible, and enjoyable experience for all our guests,” the statement read, adding it occurred during the busy school holiday period in early January.

“Our team was aware of the incident involving a caravan occupying multiple accessible parking spaces. Upon investigation, we confirmed that the guest in question held a valid disability parking permit. Our team offered an alternative parking arrangement to ensure convenience for all guests, but the guest chose not to take up this option.

Social media users were quick to criticise the parking decision.

“To address the situation proactively, we prepared an additional section of accessible parking spaces as a contingency. However, this additional capacity was not required, as the existing accessible parking spaces were sufficient to accommodate all other guests with permits on the day.”

The spokesperson said that travellers need to “plan ahead” and be mindful of other guests when bringing large haulage — such as a 4WD and caravan — to a limited parking destination.

“We understand that many Australians are travelling with caravans this summer, and we encourage drivers to plan ahead. Dreamworld provides ample parking options, and our team is always available to assist guests in finding suitable parking,” the statement read.