The latest Margaret River camping news highlights how the Shire of Augusta Margaret River is leaning on local caravan park operators to deliver more ‘surge’ and ‘overflow’ campsites. This is in its bid to tackle illegal camping. This move has certainly made headlines in Margaret River camping news outlets.
As housing shortfalls, demand for seasonal workers and peak season tourism apply accommodation pressures, some behaviours among illegal campers are sparking grave concerns among the local community. This further fuels the Margaret River camping news cycle.
“Surge Capacity” a Local Caravan Park Responsibility?
In an Attachment presented to a Special Council Meeting on November 12, efforts to identify overflow campsites centred around capacity of existing campgrounds. Updates like these are crucial in the context of Margaret River camping news.
How Council would support funding to local caravan parks and campsites for overflow camping in the short-term remains unclear.
New $200 Illegal Camping Fines in Margaret River
However, $30,000 dollars in ‘Quick Win’ deterrents were funded under the multi-pronged approach voted upon on November 12. These include No Camping signage and increased patrolling, as reported in various Margaret River camping news articles.
Rangers from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River will now work with DBCA officers to issue $200 fines. This is a increase from the previous $100 fines, on Council’s behalf to those found illegally camping.
Barrett Street Weir Vehicle Closure, One Step Closer
A three-month trial restricting vehicle access to popular swimming hole Barrett Street Weir is also connected to the $30,000 allocation. It falls under the ‘Quick Win’ actions and is tied to neighbourhood consultation.
“That will be going out for public consultation because … that’s something that’s got to be dealt with … Council because you are dealing with access along a road,” said Cr Greg Boland when speaking to the motion at the Special Council Meeting.
From “Circa January 1, 2026”, picnickers could feasibly access the site solely via pedestrian pathways during the peak summer season.
Find the Special Council Meeting Agenda and the Road Map included in the Attachment for November 12.
