Illegal beach fires are a burning issue in Port Douglas
Four Mile Beach
There have been 20 complaints lodged with Douglas Shire Council about illegal camping on Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas in less than two months.
A council spokesman this week confirmed the number of complaints lodged since July 1 following an inquiry by Newsport about illegal fires and camping at the popular tourism spot.
DSC Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said those complaints included five from the central Port Douglas region and two about fires at the northern end of Four Mile Beach.
“Our officers conduct regular early-morning patrols,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“Sometimes that involves a friendly chat and sharing a flyer with campground information, other times it’s a warning or a fine.
“When fires are reported, our outdoor crews attend to extinguish any smouldering remains and clean up rubbish during rostered hours.
“We encourage residents to report fires or illegal camping by calling or emailing Council directly.”
Douglas Shire resident Michael Johnston, who goes on regular early-morning walks in the Sand Street region of Four Mile Beach, says he is sick of seeing piles of rubbish, still-smouldering fires and people sleeping on the beach - sometimes even including with luggage.
“I’m very proud to live in Port Douglas and I think we all have a responsibility to look after the assets that bring in the tourists,” Mr Johnston said.
“It’s a pretty famous beach and we need to look after these things.
“It is disrespectful to the community, I just feel ashamed,” he said.
“It just looks like a tip.”
Mr Johnston said he would like to see council officers make more early morning and late night visits to the beach to catch people in the act.
Support public interest journalism
Help us to continue covering local stories that matter. Please consider supporting below.
