Illegal camping in the spotlight for the Shire of Ravensthorpe in a bid to protect the natural environment

With the busy summer season about to start, the Shire of Ravensthorpe is cracking down on illegal campers in a bid to protect the natural environment. The local government is asking visitors to respect their community and environment by following local regulations when camping or travelling in the area. That includes only using established accommodation facilities and leaving no trace or waste when exploring. A Shire representative said they understood the appeal of camping in the great outdoors, but stressed the natural spaces were shared and needed to be protected. “We kindly request that all visitors refrain from illegal camping and instead make use of the various local accommodation facilities available,” the representative said. “This approach not only enhances the overall experience but also supports the local economy.” The Shire of Ravensthorpe provides two designated 48-hour free rest stops — one in Ravensthorpe and one in Hopetoun — but those sites are reserved for fully self-contained vehicles. Those vehicles need to have been fitted with the proper containment of waste and wastewater, in line with the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia Leave No Trace Policy. Shire chief executive Matthew Bird said the indiscriminate disposal of waste and wastewater could affect the environment and become a public health issue. He called on all visitors to do the right thing when visiting the region this summer. “While we welcome visitors who do the right thing, we don’t want to see people sleeping in cars or camping in the dunes,” Mr Bird said. “Our shire has some truly beautiful places to stay, from campgrounds right on the beach or in the national park, to great locally owned and operated accommodation facilities. “By working together, we can ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and unforgettable summer in our amazing region.” The Shire spokesperson said camping outside designated camping facilities, excluding private property, was not permitted. The spokesperson said rangers regularly patrolled the free rest stops and Shire reserves, and would issue infringement notices to anyone not following the rules.