The serene beauty of a lakeside park is often the perfect escape for those of us who cherish the tranquillity of nature and the joy of outdoor activities. Kentish Park, near Sheffield in Tasmania's north, is one such idyllic spot that has long been a favourite for rowers, jet skiers, fishermen, and families looking to enjoy the picturesque setting of Lake Barrington. However, a recent issue has marred the park's reputation and left visitors and locals alike in a rather uncomfortable and unsanitary predicament.


The problem at hand is one that might make you think twice before donning your walking shoes for a stroll around the park. Since the closure of the campground in 2022, the lack of toilet facilities has become a pressing concern. With the nearest public restroom over 13 kilometres away, visitors have been left with no choice but to relieve themselves in the bushes. This has led to warnings from locals to 'be careful where you walk,' as the once-pristine park is now at risk of becoming a minefield of human waste.


The issue came to a head during the Australia Day weekend when the park saw an influx of more than 200 visitors. The absence of amenities prompted an outcry on social media, with residents voicing their concerns about the environmental and health implications of the situation. Descriptions of the park ranged from 'disgraceful' to 'gross' and 'embarrassing,' with fears that heavy rainfall could exacerbate the filth. The fact that Lake Barrington supplies water to towns in northwest Tasmania adds another layer of concern, with some residents expressing relief that they have rainwater tanks.


Kentish Mayor Kate Haberle has acknowledged the potential environmental health hazard posed by visitors going to the toilet in the bushes and has called on the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to take responsibility. The park's ownership was transferred back to the state government in August 2023, but the toilet block remains closed, leaving the park's visitors without essential facilities.

In response to the outcry, the government has allocated $150,000 to the council for the construction of new amenities. While Mayor Haberle is prepared to use these funds to rebuild the toilet block, she is also advocating for assistance with maintenance costs, which the state government has so far been unwilling to provide. The burden of maintenance, if not supported by the state, would fall on the local ratepayers, a point of contention given the park's wide-reaching popularity.

The council is set to consider the maintenance costs in their upcoming budget, with Mayor Haberle emphasizing the urgency of the matter. She has been vocal about her commitment to reopening the toilet block for the next season and is actively seeking solutions. Residents have been invited to submit proposals or voice their concerns to the council, as the mayor remains determined to resolve the issue.


While many are also calling for the campground to be reopened, the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service has stated that there are no current plans to reintroduce overnight camping. This decision leaves the park's future in limbo, with the community hoping for a swift and effective resolution to the 'filthy' problem.

As we at the Seniors Discount Club often remind our readers, the great outdoors is one of life's greatest pleasures, especially as we seek peaceful retreats from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's crucial that our parks and recreational areas are maintained to the highest standards for the enjoyment and safety of all visitors. We encourage our members to stay informed and involved in local issues that affect these communal spaces.
Have you encountered similar issues at your local parks or recreational areas? How do you think such problems should be addressed? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's discuss the importance of preserving the cleanliness and accessibility of our beloved natural environments.