Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

 

[SandyM]

They have been charging fees to park at Frankston beach for years.

 

[PattiB]

I do understand why fees are being charged as some people would park all day with no room left for anyone else. Councils or who ever looks after beaches have to do constant cleanups of rubbish and public toilets etc. A lot of Tasmanian beaches are in National Park areas so we’ve been paying for access for a while. We buy our “seniors” park pass so we go wherever we want.

 

[Littleboy8]

They have been charging fees to park at Frankston beach for years.

Really didn’t know that shows how long since I’ve been to the frankston beach.

 

[Luckyus]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Are they going to have cameras checking the cameras?

 

[Luckyus]

Really didn’t know that shows how long since I’ve been to the frankston beach.

The last time I walked on Frankston pier was I pushed my fathers wheelchair and he died over thirty years ago, and I still live a couple of klicks away.

 

[LorelleD]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

I think it's a great idea. I have to pay for parking when I go to my nearest city, why should the popular beaches be any different?

 

[Veggiepatch]

Really didn’t know that shows how long since I’ve been to the frankston beach.

Not missing much....

 

[Veggiepatch]

Are they going to have cameras checking the cameras?

A step ladder and a can of black spray paint cures a lot of things....

 

[gamiry]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

who said Ned Kelly was dead.

 

[KaraJenna]

What's the issue? Not paying for actual beach access, just parking because of the demand. If object go somewhere else. Not as if Australia is short of decent beaches!

 

[Littleboy8]

What's the issue? Not paying for actual beach access, just parking because of the demand. If object go somewhere else. Not as if Australia is short of decent beaches!

I don’t own a car so I actually don’t give a shit

 

[Veggiepatch]

I don’t own a car so I actually don’t give a shit

Same here! I just up and left my ever trustworthy Mazda 2 one day in a Hampton Park side street. Police didn't even get in touch with me. Oh well!

 

[Brody]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

I wondered how long before they would charge us to go to the Beaches. I've been waiting for years to see how long it would be before they hit us with a charge
for going to the Beach. This has to be the
Greatest Single Cost of paying for this outing. It is un-Australian, and an absolute disgrace to have this Criminal
Act to be put on the Australian Public.

 

[Veggiepatch]

I wondered how long before they would charge us to go to the Beaches. I've been waiting for years to see how long it would be before they hit us with a charge
for going to the Beach. This has to be the
Greatest Single Cost of paying for this outing. It is un-Australian, and an absolute disgrace to have this Criminal
Act to be put on the Australian Public.

Shhh! Someone might hear you.

And that proposed Oxygen Tax Act 2025. Based on lung capacity of the individual. Those with emphysema can apply for an exemption....

 

[Veggiepatch]

Shhh! Someone might hear you.

And that proposed Oxygen Tax Act 2025. Based on lung capacity of the individual. Those with emphysema can apply for an exemption....

Not a joke. Well, the above post is tongue in cheek. However, the ones below are not.

A Beijing scientist is being criticised for supposedly suggesting a levy on exhaling carbon dioxide. Li Taige explores whether the Chinese public is huffing and puffing over nothing.

A tax on breathing?

A Beijing scientist is being criticised for supposedly suggesting a levy on exhaling carbon dioxide. Li Taige explores whether the Chinese public is huffing and puffing over nothing.

chinadialogue.net

The biggest international airport in Venezuela is charging a fee for the right to inhale clean air - and social media users are not happy.

We're used to a seemingly endless range of taxes and surcharges when we fly - passenger taxes, departure taxes, fuel levies. But Maiquetia International Airport in Caracas has taken this a step further - passengers flying out now have to pay 127 bolivars tax (£12; $20) for the air they breathe.

#BBCtrending: Venezuela's airport 'breathing' tax

Social media mocks new airport "breathing" tax.

www.bbc.com

Big Brother is breathing down your neck....

 

[Skeeta22]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

That's absolutely disgusting! Next we'll have to pay for breathing fresh air. Mornington Peninsular Council has some very high end properties there and therefore the Council is reaping in hefty rates, they are just a very greedy Council forcing people to find a different beach to frequent with their families.

 

[Veggiepatch]

That's absolutely disgusting! Next we'll have to pay for breathing fresh air. Mornington Peninsular Council has some very high end properties there and therefore the Council is reaping in hefty rates, they are just a very greedy Council forcing people to find a different beach to frequent with their families.

I was at the beach at Rosebud in the height of COVID-19 on a stinking hot day. My friends asked me to go swimming with them and I went no further than getting my feet wet.

The reason? The water stunk of raw sewage mixed with who knows what else. Just 50 metres up the beach was an outlet of sorts, spewing out some toxic waste. Never been back since.

 

[Skeeta22]

I was at the beach at Rosebud in the height of COVID-19 on a stinking hot day. My friends asked me to go swimming with them and I went no further than getting my feet wet.

The reason? The water stunk of raw sewage mixed with who knows what else. Just 50 metres up the beach was an outlet of sorts, spewing out some toxic waste. Never been back since.That's really a tragedy My parents had a holiday house at Safety Beach when I was a child and I spent many , wonderful hours there at that beautiful beach

 

[Cheviegirl]

Australia, the land of sun, surf, and sand, is known for its iconic beaches. They are a part of the national identity, a symbol of the laid-back lifestyle that Aussies cherish.

But what happens when access to these beloved shores comes with a price tag?

That's the question many Australians are grappling with as outrage spreads over a new fee introduced at some of the country's most popular beaches.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council in Melbourne has decided to trial paid parking at Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point, and Sunnyside Beach, three of the most frequented beaches on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.

The new parking fee, which comes into effect just as summer is heating up, will cost Aussie families $6.20 per hour. The fee is capped at $19.50 for the day.

View attachment 37410

Beachgoers at certain beaches in Melbourne are being asked to pay a new parking fee. Image source: Flinders Community Association.

Sunnyside and Flinders offer all day parking with no time limits, while those visiting Schnapper Point will have the option of two-hour or four-hour parking.

The fee is a significant blow to many, especially considering the current cost-of-living crisis and the expenses associated with the festive season.

The decision has been met with widespread criticism.

One disgruntled beachgoer said: 'It’s a beach. Why should we have to pay for it?'

Another stated, 'We won’t stay here. We’ll travel further on where we don’t have to pay.'

However, not everyone is against the new fee.

Some beachgoers have expressed willingness to pay, provided the revenue is used to maintain the beaches and foreshore area.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the move, stating that it was a response to the challenges posed by growing visitor numbers.

'We have 7.5 million visitors come down here every year,' he said.

'It costs us about $8 million a year to maintain our foreshore areas.'

To enforce the new fee, the council has installed cameras costing $165,000 to catch those who evade payment or overstay the four-hour limit.

The trial will last for nine months, but there is a possibility it could be extended.

Locals, however, are exempt from the new fees, but they must apply for a free ePermit on this website.

Key Takeaways

• Beachgoers on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula are being charged a new fee for parking at some of the most popular beaches.
• A visit to Flinders Pier, Schnapper Point and Sunnyside Beach will cost $6.20 per hour, capped at $19.50 for the day.
• There has been a public backlash against the charges, with some saying they would rather visit other beaches without fees.
• Despite the criticism, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Mayor Simon Brooks defended the decision and cited increased visitor numbers and maintenance costs as the reason for the fees.

What are your thoughts, members? Are you willing to pay for beach access if it means better maintenance and facilities, or should our beaches remain free for all? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

No I would never park there. They do not own the beaches! The beaches are for us all to enjoy. Too many places now charging just to park your car. Go elsewhere!