You Won't Believe How Coles Handled This P-plater's Parking Fiasco – Learn What NOT to Do!

Parking etiquette is a topic that often stirs up strong opinions, especially when it comes to the use of 'customer only' spaces. These designated spots are meant to provide convenience for shoppers, but when they're misused, it can lead to frustration and drastic measures. This was the case at the First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead, Brisbane, where a P-plater found themselves at the center of a parking controversy that has sparked debate among locals and caught the attention of the wider community.

The incident unfolded when management, seemingly exasperated by repeated flouting of the parking rules, decided to take a stand. A car with P-plates was effectively imprisoned by a yellow bollard, with a sternly worded note left on the back window. The note explained the purpose of the parking space and reminded the driver that it was reserved for customers needing quick access to the store. The signage around the car park clearly stated that parking beyond 15 minutes was prohibited and that fines could be issued.



The note further warned the driver that their vehicle had been 'locked in by management' and would be kept on record. It instructed the driver to consult with First Choice management to discuss their options for resolving the situation. This hardline approach to parking enforcement certainly sends a clear message, but it also raises questions about the appropriateness of the response.


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Coles has responded to customers parking at reserved spaces. Credit: Facebook


When a local woman witnessed the scene and shared photos on Facebook, it quickly became a talking point. She noted that at least two other cars were similarly detained. Coles, the owner of the car park, defended the store's management, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring that customers have parking and clear access to their stores. A Coles spokesperson explained that the Newstead store car park has ample signage about parking time restrictions and that the store team may use discretion to remind the community of these rules.



The problem seems to stem from a lack of available parking in the area, with some cars reportedly parked for extended periods, sometimes even overnight. A nearby pub and a large apartment complex with limited parking have been cited as contributing factors to the parking squeeze.

Local reactions to the store's enforcement tactics were mixed. Some applauded the move, expressing relief that something was finally being done to address the parking issue. Others, however, offered a different perspective, suggesting that the measures could be excessive and potentially dangerous in emergency situations, such as the need to flee from domestic violence.

This incident serves as a cautionary tale for drivers, particularly those new to the road, about the importance of adhering to parking regulations. It also highlights the challenges that businesses face in managing their parking facilities and the delicate balance between enforcing rules and maintaining community goodwill.



As we reflect on this parking fiasco, it's worth considering the broader implications of such enforcement tactics. Are there more effective ways to manage parking without resorting to such extreme measures? Could better communication or alternative solutions alleviate the parking pressures in high-demand areas? And most importantly, how can we ensure that safety and accessibility are not compromised in the process?
Key Takeaways
  • A P-plater's car was blocked in by a bollard at a First Choice Liquor Market in Newstead, Brisbane, for flouting parking rules.
  • The store, owned by Coles, displayed clear signage about parking time restrictions and fines for violations.
  • Coles defended the action taken by the store's management to ensure customer parking and clear access.
  • Locals were divided over the store's response, with some supporting the move and others concerned about the potential negative consequences, such as in emergency situations.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts and experiences with parking etiquette and enforcement. Have you ever encountered a situation like the one at the First Choice Liquor Market store? What do you think is the best approach to managing parking for customers while being mindful of the needs of the local community? Let us know in the comments below, and remember, when it comes to parking, it's always best to follow the rules to avoid finding yourself in a bollard blockade!
 

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I once parked in a pram parking area at our large set of shops here in Adelaide.
There were no disibility parks empty so I thought i'd take the chance, as it stands there were many more pram parks than there were disabled and most of them were empty so I thought I would take the chance.
It was the first and last time I did it because when I got back to my car to leave a woman with her daughters and grandaughters started to abuse me, she called me every name under the sun, from sl*t to a f*****g arrogant c**t, she was going off.
I tried to explain that I had my disibility permit up and there were no parks available to me that were close to the entrance but it fell on deaf ears.
She told her daughters to take down my number plate to give to centre managment.
I couldn't say a thing she was ranting so much, I eventually managed to say that the first words her grandchildren would say is f**k.
Off she went in a rage and I was so tempted to do something to her car, but with her having my number plate she'd know it was me.
The upshot was that when I got home I called centre management to plead my case, but they told me they ignored her complaint and as there were no disibility parks I had every right to park there.
I would loved to have seen her face when she was told that.
 
I once parked in a pram parking area at our large set of shops here in Adelaide.
There were no disibility parks empty so I thought i'd take the chance, as it stands there were many more pram parks than there were disabled and most of them were empty so I thought I would take the chance.
It was the first and last time I did it because when I got back to my car to leave a woman with her daughters and grandaughters started to abuse me, she called me every name under the sun, from sl*t to a f*****g arrogant c**t, she was going off.
I tried to explain that I had my disibility permit up and there were no parks available to me that were close to the entrance but it fell on deaf ears.
She told her daughters to take down my number plate to give to centre managment.
I couldn't say a thing she was ranting so much, I eventually managed to say that the first words her grandchildren would say is f**k.
Off she went in a rage and I was so tempted to do something to her car, but with her having my number plate she'd know it was me.
The upshot was that when I got home I called centre management to plead my case, but they told me they ignored her complaint and as there were no disibility parks I had every right to park there.
I would loved to have seen her face when she was told that.
If you have a disability sticker you ate allowed to park in pram bays and the ones for seniors if no disability parks are available. There are not as many disability parks anywhere as there are pram spots, why the need for a pram spot fails my logic.
 
There has always been heaps of Pram parking spots but only a couple of Disable Spaces.

I have witnessed so many people parking in the Mothers with Prams parking spots & go shopping without a Pram, & without children😡

Same goes for Disabled Parking. No Disability Sign to be seen on the car, yet people park in these spaces because they can’t be bothered walking.

Maybe the Shopping Centres could employ staff to Police these areas to make sure they are being used for the right purposes.

Also…..they should make more Disabled parking spaces available.
 
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There has always been heaps of Pram parking spots but only a couple of Disable Spaces.

I have witnessed so many people parking in the Mothers with Prams parking spots & go shopping without a Pram, & without children😡

Same goes for Disabled Parking. No Disability Sign to be seen on the car, yet people park in these spaces because they can’t be bothered walking.

Maybe the Shopping Centres could employ staff to Police these areas to make sure they are being used for the right purposes.

Also…..they should make more Disabled parking spaces available.
At my local Woolworths the disabled spaces while near the entrance, mean drivers have so many problems backing out because they’re reversing into an area where others are constantly speeding by. My friends with disability stickers refuse to park in them. I don’t think this particular supermarket even has pram spaces.
 
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I've seen all types of "parking" for "parents with prams", "seniors only parking" and even "Uber drivers only" spots.

The only parking which is legally enforceable is disabled parking. ANYONE can park in those spots previously mentioned.

As for the Coles carpark incident, I would have dragged the shop proprietor out by the ear and told him to remove the bollard PRONTO. This action is technically theft and I have threatened a car dealership in the same manner when they wouldn't give back my car after undertaking repairs which I did not authorise.
 
I once parked in a pram parking area at our large set of shops here in Adelaide.
There were no disibility parks empty so I thought i'd take the chance, as it stands there were many more pram parks than there were disabled and most of them were empty so I thought I would take the chance.
It was the first and last time I did it because when I got back to my car to leave a woman with her daughters and grandaughters started to abuse me, she called me every name under the sun, from sl*t to a f*****g arrogant c**t, she was going off.
I tried to explain that I had my disibility permit up and there were no parks available to me that were close to the entrance but it fell on deaf ears.
She told her daughters to take down my number plate to give to centre managment.
I couldn't say a thing she was ranting so much, I eventually managed to say that the first words her grandchildren would say is f**k.
Off she went in a rage and I was so tempted to do something to her car, but with her having my number plate she'd know it was me.
The upshot was that when I got home I called centre management to plead my case, but they told me they ignored her complaint and as there were no disibility parks I had every right to park there.
I would loved to have seen her face when she was told that.
I agree completely with you. My mum is 101 has just come out of hospital after 3 months and is unable to walk more than a few steps. We therefore need the pace to open the car door widely. What gets me is why Senior Bays??
 
I once parked in a pram parking area at our large set of shops here in Adelaide.
There were no disibility parks empty so I thought i'd take the chance, as it stands there were many more pram parks than there were disabled and most of them were empty so I thought I would take the chance.
It was the first and last time I did it because when I got back to my car to leave a woman with her daughters and grandaughters started to abuse me, she called me every name under the sun, from sl*t to a f*****g arrogant c**t, she was going off.
I tried to explain that I had my disibility permit up and there were no parks available to me that were close to the entrance but it fell on deaf ears.
She told her daughters to take down my number plate to give to centre managment.
I couldn't say a thing she was ranting so much, I eventually managed to say that the first words her grandchildren would say is f**k.
Off she went in a rage and I was so tempted to do something to her car, but with her having my number plate she'd know it was me.
The upshot was that when I got home I called centre management to plead my case, but they told me they ignored her complaint and as there were no disibility parks I had every right to park there.
I would loved to have seen her face when she was told that.
I’m pretty sure parents with prams spots are only a courtesy thing whereas with disability spots you are legally not allowed to park in them without a permit. So this stupid woman who harassed you needs to get her facts right.
 
Interesting. I thought the only place you could legally put anything on the outside of a window was under the left side front windscreen wiper.
 
If you have a disability sticker you ate allowed to park in pram bays and the ones for seniors if no disability parks are available. There are not as many disability parks anywhere as there are pram spots, why the need for a pram spot fails my logic.
Yes, you push a pram so a little more distance from the entry should not be a problem, It's not as you are carrying it!
 
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I’m pretty sure parents with prams spots are only a courtesy thing whereas with disability spots you are legally not allowed to park in them without a permit. So this stupid woman who harassed you needs to get her facts right.
In some shopping centres in Adelaide you have to have a specially issued courtesy label in your car to use a pram car parking space. I don't recall ever seeing a Seniors parking area.
Yes, you push a pram so a little more distance from the entry should not be a problem, It's not as you are carrying it!
 
If you have a disability sticker you ate allowed to park in pram bays and the ones for seniors if no disability parks are available. There are not as many disability parks anywhere as there are pram spots, why the need for a pram spot fails my logic.
I am so happy to read that others feel as I do.
Why do pram spots have to be so close to the entry? Yes I have gone into one of 30 pram spots because all of the 6 disabled are taken. These mums are younger and more able bodied than the disabled...I say...make them take their babies walkies from further back.
The mystery of imperfect planning strikes again.
 
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In some shopping centres in Adelaide you have to have a specially issued courtesy label in your car to use a pram car parking space. I don't recall ever seeing a Seniors parking area.
As legally binding as a Mintie wrapper.

Waste of time and lures people into a false sense of security and entitlement. All a load of crap.

You can use ANY parking spot in a public car park without such a "label", the exception being disabled parking when you need a permit issued by an organisation such as ACROD.
 
Since when have stores like this been able to issue fines. I would fight it & go to court. I refuse to pay for Wilsons parking. They are not supposed to get my name & address from the government It's like Toll fees I believe Transurban is a private company. They should not be able to get peoples private details like names & addresses.
Also, whilst talking about parking, when is someone going to something about "Mummy" parking. They do not need to be close to the entrances, unlike disabled parking. In fact, it is downright dangerous. People with more than one child have face problems with slightly more mobile children bolting the areas around entrances are some of the busiest. By having to walk a little bit further from a quieter area, it gives parents a chance to settle & organise their children. Also, most mothers especially the younger ones don't mind a little bit of gentle exercise
 
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The parking spaces are wider which is a good idea as lifting a baby or toddler out of a vehicle you need to be able to open your door wider. Nobody wants a damaged car because of a narrow car parking space. Some of the normal ones are narrow even with small cars and people are parked correctly in the middle of the "bay"
 
What gets up my nose is the proximity of FREE EV charging stations to shop entrances. As well as getting their fireballs on wheels charged at no cost, they are closer to the entrance than disabled parking spots! Elitism at its most disgusting!

ChargePoint-Image.jpg
Westfield Booragoon in Perth.

The shop entrance is just behind the station. The nearest disabled spot is 20 metres behind me (the photographer),
 
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