Ghost camping is down, but the fight for fair camping spots at Wilsons Promontory rages on!
It's a familiar story: you eagerly book a campsite, dreaming of starry nights and crackling campfires, only to find the campground is full of empty spots. This summer, the issue of 'ghost camping' – where people reserve sites but don't show up – has thankfully decreased in Victorian parks after a much-criticized free camping scheme was scrapped. But the battle for a fair booking system at Wilsons Promontory, one of the state's most popular campgrounds, is far from over.
With the free camping initiative gone, the popular Tidal River campground is noticeably busier than last year. However, the Prom Campers Association (PCA) wants to bring back a ballot system to allocate the 484 spots available during peak times. They believe this would restore fairness, ensuring it's not just a race of who can log on the fastest.
This shift in booking systems hasn't been without its hiccups. The initial introduction of online, first-come, first-served bookings for the 2023/24 summer was plagued by website crashes and a data breach. Though the system improved the following year, the problem of unused sites persisted. To combat this, Parks Victoria reintroduced half-price booking fees, which the PCA believes has helped ensure that those who book are committed.
But here's where it gets controversial... The PCA argues that the current online booking system, which feels like trying to snag Taylor Swift tickets, disadvantages those who aren't tech-savvy or have the time to sit at multiple screens. They propose a ballot system, allowing adequate time for applications, followed by a random draw. This, they believe, would allow rangers to better assign sites to suit different campers, from solo hikers to large families. But, Parks Victoria has no plans to reintroduce the ballot.
Parks Victoria maintains that the current first-in system gives campers the flexibility to choose specific sites and dates. They also point to strong booking numbers across the state, with nearly 195,000 nights booked since July. This year's situation has improved compared to last year's free camping scheme, according to Nationals MP Tim Bull. Private caravan park operators also seem to be benefiting, with increased occupancy rates, suggesting the return of fees has helped.
However, Jordan Crook from the Victoria National Parks Association raises concerns about potential under-resourcing due to funding cuts and the half-price booking fees. Despite the debate, Parks Victoria highlights that sites are still available in other areas, and there are over 1,000 free campgrounds across the state.
So, what do you think? Is a ballot system the fairest way to allocate campsites, or does the current system work? Do you think the return of booking fees has improved the situation, or are there other factors at play? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
