Following the rules ensures that everyone can enjoy the beautiful Macleay Valley and avoid copping a fine that can really dampen the festive season.
Kempsey Shire Council, NSW National Parks and NSW Police are on the prowl targeting non-compliance around the region this summer.
Aaron Bray, Rangers Team Leader at Kempsey Shire Council is asking residents and visitors to be mindful of rules in place as non-compliance patrols ramp up.
"Along with regular compliance patrols, Council is clamping down on illegal camping and parking and on and off-leash dog areas, said Mr Bray.
"We ask people to do the right thing by obeying signage in place, having a beach driving permit, abiding by parking limits and camping in allocated areas."
Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, dogs must be kept on a leash in all public places. This means when people are not at their homes, including on the footpath, dogs must be on a leash – except in designated off-leash parks. Council has updated on and off-leash dog areas after comprehensive community engagement. These are clearly signposted around the shire and with digital copies available at Dog parks & off-leash areas
Parking limits at popular tourist destinations like Crescent Head and South West Rocks are also in place to deter illegal overnight camping.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services will be on the lookout for valid beach driving permits, illegal camping, dogs and anti-social behaviour in their parks.
Beach driving permits can be purchased at any Macleay Valley Coast Holiday Park as well as Outdoor Adventure and Rock Marine Bait and Tackle South West Rocks. This permit is valid on approved driving beaches in the Kempsey, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Nambucca shires.
NSW Police will be targeting drink driving, registration and license checks and speeding on both roads and beaches
"The Kempsey Shire is a major destination where thousands of people spend their summer holidays so working together with the community, National Parks and NSW Police is our best chance of everyone having a safe and happy festive season."
