Margaret River tourists warned to book ahead

Shire leaders have warned visitors to ensure they have booked accommodation before visiting Margaret River amid concerns about illegal camping and bushfire risks. It follows reports earlier this year that Perth tourists were driving down expecting to find accommodation on the fly, despite peak tourism season and a housing crisis which has seen some residents sleeping in their cars. Rangers issued 40 $100 illegal camping fines between November 19 and December 8. Shire of Augusta-Margaret River ranger co-ordinator Naz Graue said her team had increased patrols with a zero-tolerance approach. “Illegal camping in unmanaged localities typically results in the multitude of issues,” she said. “We often encounter illegal campfires, toilet waste, litter and food scraps. There’s also instances where high-value environmental areas have been damaged from the camp set up or vehicle movement. It also occasionally comes with noise complaints and antisocial behaviour in larger camping groups,” she said. Beach carparks were also on rangers’ hit-list amid congestion concerns. “If you don’t have a place to stay though, please hold off your travels until such a time you can get accommodation,” Ms Graue said. Residents could report suspected illegal campers on 9780 5695.