Police join forces to patrol Noosa’s camping areas

‘A number of officers are now trained as authorised officers with QPWS, so allows checking of the various park permit requirements.’

NOOSA Police have good news to report after joining forces to conduct patrols of Noosa North Shore, Teewah Beach and Double Island over the weekend.

It is a joint department approach with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) to provide support to the rangers in maintaining order for the weekend and holiday visitors.

Acting Senior Sergeant and current Officer-in-Charge at Noosa Heads Police Station Troy Cavell said numbers of beach users has been good since restrictions were lifted.

"Although there are restrictions through QPWS restricting camping permits, the day trip numbers are still strong with the good weather," he said.

He was happy to report they did not have to hand out any fines to motorists across the weekend.

"95 per cent were compliant with the parks permits and we cautioned a few regarding the necessary permits," he said.

"No traffic offences were detected by police, all drivers were licensed and all breath tests were 0.00 per cent. 

Whether you are heading out on a day trip or a camping trip, all require a Restricted Area Access Permit (RAA - No fee), through the QPWS website, plus a Vehicle Access Permit (VAP).

The RAA will be a requirement until COVID-19 restrictions are eased and the VAP has been and will remain compulsory to access the Cooloola National Park recreation area.

Noosa Police will continue to actively patrol the North Shore via the Noosa River ferry crossing.

As the beach north is a designated road, all road rules still apply.

"We are targeting seatbelts, registered vehicles, licensed drivers. Plus a number of officers are now trained as authorised officers with QPWS so allows checking of the various park permit requirements," Cavell said.

"Breath Testing is also conducted on the beach and Leisha Track areas.

"If any patrons visiting the park have dashcam footage or mobile phone video of any vehicles observed committing offences, contact Noosa Police with the details for further investigation."

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