Dunes campsites trashed
• The state of one of the campsites left at Double Sandy Conservation Area over the weekend. Image supplied.
By Taylor Clyne
August 26, 2020
Users of the popular Bridport to Bellingham Dunes and associated campsites have been left horrified after finding the pristine locations littered and trashed over the weekend.
Resident Jason Cracky took to social media to express his concern over the state of the campsites.
“We have some disgusting people that go camping down here, it's the campsite behind the big dunes at Bellingham.
“Multiple campsites were left with trash everywhere, burnt couches, beer cans, bottles and fast food rubbish and then they whinge and sook about when Parks and Wildlife lock us out.
“It's not that hard to take the rubbish with you,” he said.
His post was met with hundreds of support responses with people disappointed that the actions of some spoil it for all.
A Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) spokesperson said they are aware of an event held in the dunes of the Double Sandy Conservation Area over the weekend.
“The matter is currently the subject of an investigation.
“There is a designated campsite within the dunes which is part of the Bridport to Bellingham 4wd 22km Traverse.
“The PWS asks all visitors to parks and reserves to abide by the leave no trace principles in responsible outdoor travel and recreation.
“At the core of the seven principles is an appreciation and respect for our natural and cultural heritage,” the spokesperson said.
Campfires are not permitted on beaches; users are asked to bring a fire pot outside of fire restrictions times.
The National Parks and Reserves Management Regulations 2019 contain a variety of penalty provisions to deal with undesirable behaviour such as dumping rubbish, inappropriate vehicle use, and damaging property.
“The PWS schedules routine patrols of the area, additionally, amendments have also been made to the Litter Act 2007 and related sub-ordinate legislation, providing new categories for illegal dumping.
“Tougher penalties now apply that appropriately reflect the damage to the environment and the cost to the community,” the spokesperson concluded.