The Hinkler Lions Tourist Park will have new open hours after an increase in community complaints.
The park is located on University Drive in Branyan and was previously used as a ‘maximum 24 hour stay’ location for self-contained campers with an amenities block, water and dump point on site.
However Bundaberg Regional Council will reduce the park’s open hours to between 5.30 am and 6.30 pm daily as of 27 January 2026.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn said Council had resolved to change the access hours for the Hinkler Lions Tourist Park following an operational review.
“Unfortunately the Hinkler Lions Tourist Park has become an area of concern in recent times with a high number of complaints about the misuse of the 24 hour stay restrictions,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“We have received many complaints from the community raising legitimate concerns about the activities taking place in this park in close proximity to sporting fields and the university.
“Council is cognisant that the increase in stays for longer than 24 hours is related to housing issues being experienced throughout the state however in light of community concerns we feel this action needs to be taken.”
The new hours for the Hinkler Lions Tourist Park are in line with daylight hours and the current management of the reserve.
“To support enforcement of the opening hours, a gate will be installed over the driveway access.
“The gate will be managed in line with our existing service schedules and will be consistent with arrangements in comparable Council parks.”
Other overnight stay options in the region can be found on Council’s website.
I am hoping that council has processes in place to assist those who NEED longer term living arrangements due to homelessness.
I don’t think it’s up to council to find accommodation for anyone,are the shelters over east Bundy,what about ,the Salvation army ,st Vinnie’s ect