It’s emerged as one of the most popular new beach trends to sweep the country in recent years. But both councils and coastal residents are becoming increasingly fed up with poor cabana etiquette on our sandy shores.
With summer at its peak, Aussies are flocking to the beaches in droves, many setting up cabanas to shield themselves from the harsh sun.
Coastlines are increasingly dotted with the colourful shelters as beachgoers stake their spots; however it has, in recent times, led to poor behaviour, particularly when it comes to the controversial reserving of prime beach real estate.
Port Stephens Council, in the NSW Hunter Region, warned about this very issue this week.
“The beach belongs to everyone,” it said. “Stay with your gear and keep an eye on your cabanas, gazebos, and chairs. Unattended items may be moved to allow others to use the space.”
Cocunil said a notice will be left on-site if items aren’t collected by the end of the day, and they will then be taken into possession.
“Collection fees and fines may apply,” it added.
Speaking to Yahoo, a council spokesperson acknowledged “the significant community feedback” regarding cabanas and gazebos being left unattended to reserve beach spots, sometimes for “multiple days” during the holiday period.
“Public beaches and parks are available on a first-come, first-served basis each day and cannot be booked or reserved in advance by leaving personal equipment unattended,” they said.
Empty cabanas and gazebos were seen along the Manly Wharf foreshore, a popular firework vantage point. Source: Facebook/Simon Horrocks
Cabana controversies increase as summer hits its peak
Just days ago, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, outrage erupted after a resident in Manly captured empty cabanas and chairs laid out along a stretch of waterfront.
They were lined up to watch Sydney’s iconic firework display on New Year’s Eve.
But some locals online described the move as “grotesque” and “inconsiderate”. Others went as far as to suggest they should be torn down.
And that’s just one example in a long list of similar cases to emerge right around the country as the popular shelters soar in popularity.
Reserving spots using cabanas is by far the most common gripe raised by opponents.
Fines in place for abandoned beach belongings
Port Stephens Council also charges for impounded property when items are left unattended, with an initial fee of around $60.40 and a subsequent fee of approximately $71.60 for each later impoundment.
Across NSW there are penalities for personal items left on beaches and public land.
Fines of $330 apply where an item is left for more than seven days, or more than three hours if it is causing an obstruction or safety risk. The Office of Local Government gives examples of abandoned baggage, kayaks and bicycles.
“Unattended items left in public places can be reported to Council rangers who will investigate and may take enforcement action if needed,” the Port Stephens Council spokesperson said.
“Rangers are authorised to pack down obvious unattended items and relocate them to a general nearby area in accordance with the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021. Relocated items are marked with an unattended notice to notify the owner.”
Port Stephens welcomes over 100,000 visitors per year during the summer holidays.
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