Sunshine Coast Council has announced restrictions at two popular foreshore car parks, amid warnings that visitors could be fined for overstaying their welcome.
Signs have been installed at car parks on Pacific Boulevard at the entrance to Point Cartwright Reserve and at Harbour Parade at the northern end of La Balsa Park at Buddina, including one that states “progressive changes are being made” in response to “a history of complaints regarding illegal camping”.
“It is intended that this change to parking service is responsive to the community’s needs and demands, whilst ensuring we do not impact on what makes our places attractive to live in visit,” it read.
The signs state that parking is prohibited from 10pm to 4am, seven days a week.
A council spokesperson told Sunshine Coast News that there was a clampdown on people who take over car parks for long periods of time, after scores of people complained.
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“There has been a significant increase in concerns from our community regarding illegal camping in the foreshore car parks around the Point Cartwright and La Balsa area,” they said.
“Council has received more than 290 complaints, almost double the number in 2022.
“Complaints about illegal camping include concerns about littering, fires in restricted zones, damage to vegetation and infrastructure, and limited access to car parking for visitors.
“Camping on beaches, parks or car parks is illegal unless designated signs permit it.”
The spokesperson said there was some misinformation online about public car parks.
“Unfortunately, foreshore car parks are occasionally incorrectly listed on websites promoting free camping, causing confusion,” they said.
“(But) parking regulations are easy to understand and provide clear directions.”
The spokesperson warned the penalty for stopping in a no-parking area is $116.
“Council officers actively patrol these locations and those parked unlawfully may receive an infringement,” they said.
“Drivers should check and comply with street parking regulations, ensuring lawful and responsible use of these spaces.
“Council’s website provides information on parking regulations and camping options for those wishing to camp locally.”
Some people voiced their disappointment at the restrictions, amid a homelessness crisis.
“Just another way to kick people in the guts when they are going through hardship,” said one comment on the La Balsa Bow Wows Facebook page. “There are a lot of people sleeping in their cars, mostly harmless. I walk (by) every morning, and there is never a problem. This is just making life more difficult for people who are already struggling.”
Others said “Ruining the Coast with more regulations. Revenue raising. Shame” and “As a community we are here to enhance and encourage each other, not take away comfort”.
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