Camping under the stars, surrounded by nature’s beauty, is a cherished pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts. However, for some individuals in the City of Moreton Bay, camping is not a recreational choice but a means of survival. The recent decision by the City of Moreton Bay council to outlaw homeless camping on public land has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the well-being of those experiencing homelessness.

The council’s move to criminalize all forms of homeless camping is set to take effect on March 12, leaving many individuals like Tamieka Brittnee, who has been camping in Moreton Bay for over two years, in a state of uncertainty. While the council argues that this decision is aimed at improving the health and safety of homeless individuals and providing them with necessary support services, critics fear that it will only exacerbate the homelessness crisis and push vulnerable populations into even more precarious situations.

According to City of Moreton Bay chief executive Scott Waters, the policy change is intended to address various issues associated with homeless camps, such as drug use, aggression, and unsanitary conditions. However, volunteers like Beau Haywood, founder of Nourish Street, condemn the decision as inhumane and likely to create a mental health crisis among the homeless population.

The council’s decision to revoke the Persons Experiencing Homelessness Framework, which previously allowed homeless individuals to camp on council land under certain conditions, reflects a broader shift in attitudes towards homelessness in the region. Mayor Peter Flannery acknowledges that the framework was initially implemented to support the homeless but believes it has been exploited over the years, leading to community backlash.

As the City of Moreton Bay prepares to enforce the new regulations, concerns remain about the fate of those who rely on camping as a temporary shelter. The council’s emphasis on a complaint-based system, where officers respond to resident reports of homelessness, raises questions about the approach to addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing sustainable solutions.

In the midst of this debate, the essence of camping as a recreational activity is juxtaposed with the harsh reality faced by individuals forced to camp out of necessity. The decision to criminalize homeless camping in Moreton Bay underscores the complex challenges surrounding homelessness and the need for compassionate, holistic solutions that prioritize the well-being of all community members.