Ballina Council to investigate campground for homeless

In what’s believed to be an Australian first, Ballina Shire Council is proposing to roll out the welcome mat to the homeless by providing a ratepayer-subsidised campground.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader was the only councillor to vote against the plan, seeking to find a more permanent home for the increasing number of nomad “rough sleepers” attracted to the North Coast.

Greens Councillor Kiri Dicker initially proposed that council work with the commercial operator of the council-owned Flat Rock camping ground to free up spaces at the secluded beachside tourist park.

However Mayor Cadwallader said she’d already been contacted by the business owner, alarmed the proposal would drive away paying guests due to crime and safety concerns.

“Drug use, erratic behaviour towards holiday makers, indecent exposure, violent behaviour, misuse and vandalism of facilities,” were among chief concerns of the contractor Mayor Cadwallader said.  “They don’t have the staff or experience to deal with complex social issues.”

Independent Councillor Michelle Bailey then amended the Greens motion, suggesting that in addition to the Flat Rock proposal, the council General Manager compile a report looking for other possible sites within the shire.

Speaking in favour, Deputy Mayor Damian Loone said he did not share the fears expressed by some in the community about establishing a homeless camp.

“There must be somewhere in our shire, either Crown or council land or owned facilities where there is basic human necessities of life, toiletries,  showers and water.  We could have them all in one area, managed by our rangers and the police when they necessarily need to go there.

And then hopefully government agencies will then provide the housing for them or other solutions,” Cr Loone said.

Cr Dicker said the council needed to hold the line against those spreading fear and “catastrophizing” about rough sleepers.

“There are some that have addiction and mental health issues but these people don’t typify the experience of homelessness for the vast majority.

“It’s ironic because all of the drug addicts I’ve known are either real estate agents or lawyers, but no-one seems to care about them,” Cr Dicker said.

Council GM Paul Hickey said he expected a report investigating possible locations could take about six weeks to compile, possibly coming back to a special sitting of council for a final decision.

“The sooner the better, you’ve got a commitment on that, “ Mr Hickey said.