QLD Whitsunday Regional Council Camping Fine - What to do?

Daniele · 18 April 2015

Hello, I'm Italian and I'm traveling to Darwin. My problem is a fine contracted on 15 April to Airline Beach QLD, (Whitsunday Regional Council) at 1:28 am, because
"I have engaged in a prohibited activity - camping".
The amount of the fine is $1,701.
My vehicle was parked in a free area, but there was no one inside. When I returned to my vehicle, I found the fine attached to the window. The offending data are not complete, were crossed out. there is only written "the owner". Could you advise me how to act in this situation?

At the moment I do not have a fixed address and this causes me some problems. I hope you can be of help. Thank you in advance.

ClareB · 18 April 2015

Hi Daniel,

This area of law is quite interesting. I recently heard part of a radio talk-back about the difficulties and impracticalities of fining 'camping vehicles'.

The councils issue these fines as it is illegal in most areas in Queensland to park overnight and 'camp' without a permit.
However, it is also urged and advised that drivers do not drive for more than 2 hours without resting.

What was also mentioned in the radio talk-back was how difficult it is to enforce payment of the fines.
The council does not have your name or address. Therefore, if you continue travelling, without paying the fine, how can payment be enforced?
The radio talk-back also mentioned that the fines which they do receive payment for, are only those that are voluntarily paid.

Of course, I am not advising that you to not pay the fine, but am simply expressing what I recall from a radio talk-back.

Daniele · 18 April 2015

It is possible that if I do not pay the fine, them can deduct the money from the taxes I paid? (thinking they can go back to me from the number plate) however if I broke the rules I have no problem paying a fine, but I think this is a price quite exaggerated. I would not want to run into problems for a reason so futile. I was suggested by the council office to send an email and explain what happened, and within 10 days I will know if I have to pay or not.
Anyway thanks again for your attention

Ponala · 29 April 2015

If you are just visiting and are returning to Italy some time soon, just ignore it and don't pay it. They are going to chase you overseas for it.

Search

QLD Whitsunday Regional Council Camping Fine - What to do?

Daniele

Member

ClareB

Well-Known Member

Daniele

Member

Ponala

Well-Known Member

Similar threads