Tent with million-dollar view highlights Maryborough’s homeless problem

A tent with a stunning view of the Mary River and a shopping cart parked out front has provided a stark reminder of the region’s ongoing homelessness crisis.

A tent with a million-dollar view of the Mary River was set up in Queens Park this week as Maryborough’s homelessness crisis showed no sign of improving.

A tent with a million-dollar view of the Mary River was set up in Queens Park this week as Maryborough’s homelessness crisis showed no sign of improving.

The tent, with a shopping trolley parked outside, was just metres from where Queensland Attorney-General Deb Frecklington announced a $12.5 million restoration of the city’s historic courthouse on Wednesday.

Queens Park is a popular location for the homeless.

In 2024, a makeshift camp near the rowing club and the Brolga Theatre gave a heartbreaking glimpse into the ongoing crisis.

In Hervey Bay, a crackdown on homeless camps was carried out in January 2025, after repeated attacks on council rangers.

Fraser Coast Regional Council chief executive Ken Diehm said the action followed an alarming increase in violent incidents, criminal activity and property damage in areas in Pialba such as The Pines Park, Apex Park, alongside Tooan Tooan Creek, and the site known as The Kitchen near the all-abilities playground car park.

“This is not about homelessness – it’s about community safety,” he said at the time.
In May, it was confirmed that two men had been sentenced for separate attacks on council rangers in Hervey Bay.

Mr Diehm said the council had taken steps following the incidents to review safety procedures and provide additional support for frontline workers.

The Fraser Coast council moved to address homeless sites on the Hervey Bay foreshore after attacks on rangers.

“We’ve enhanced security at key council facilities, introduced more training for staff, and are continuing to work closely with police to ensure the safety of our team,” he said.

A council spokesman said this week they were unaware of the most recent tent erected in Queens Park and had not received any complaints from the public about it.

“Council generally takes a compassionate approach to homelessness, provided sites are kept tidy and those involved do not gather in large groups or cause concerns for other members of the public,” the spokesman said.

“It’s important to note that council does not have the authority to move people on from public spaces, and we rely on Queensland Police to assist where necessary.

“While homelessness is primarily a state government responsibility, council works closely with government agencies and local support services to assist vulnerable individuals and advocate for longer-term solutions.

“Council also participates in regional forums that focus on housing security, mental health and community wellbeing.

“If someone is identified as needing help, council’s role is to help connect them with the appropriate services wherever possible while ensuring that public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone.”

Originally published as Tent with million-dollar view highlights Maryborough’s homeless problem