4WD campers have come under fire for their irresponsible behavior during camping trips, with concerns raised about the significant amount of trash left behind in natural environments. A recent incident at Crangan Bay in NSW highlighted the issue when a clean-up crew, led by Graham Johnston of Clean4Shore, discovered 440 kilograms of waste, including discarded alcohol cans and food wrappers, near tire tracks in the sand.

Johnston expressed disappointment at the growing trend of campers leaving their rubbish behind instead of properly disposing of it. He emphasized that such poor camping practices not only tarnish the natural beauty of the surroundings but also pose serious environmental threats, especially with the increasing presence of soft plastics in rivers and waterways. The aftermath of Cyclone Alfred further exacerbated the situation by revealing hidden litter that had been washed out into the open.

Apart from the trash left by campers, the clean-up crew also encountered challenges related to oyster baskets and fishing equipment cluttering the waterways. Johnston criticized oyster farmers for failing to retrieve their baskets, which often end up as debris in the rivers, causing harm to the ecosystem. The persistence of such pollution has led to disheartening scenes in various water bodies across Australia, prompting volunteer groups like Clean4Shore and Ocean Crusaders to take action in cleaning up these areas.

In Queensland, Ocean Crusaders have been actively involved in cleaning up the Brisbane River and its neighboring waterways since 2017. Volunteer Ian Thomson highlighted the increasing amount of litter along the riverbank, lamenting the impact of irresponsible waste disposal on the environment and local wildlife. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to preserve the natural beauty of these water bodies and prevent further pollution.

The issue of trash dumping during camping trips is not unique to specific regions but is a nationwide concern. Volunteer groups play a crucial role in addressing this challenge by dedicating their time and resources to cleaning up waterways and foreshores. As Australia grapples with persistent littering problems, it is essential for campers and outdoor enthusiasts to adopt responsible practices to ensure the preservation of the environment for future generations.