The controversial and widely condemned practice of using plastic cling wrap to cordon off public picnic shelters has made an unwelcome return to Wollongong's popular Stuart Park, casting a shadow over the New Year's Eve and New Year's Day celebrations.
Plastic Barriers and Parking Disputes Mar Festivities
Despite clear signage erected by Wollongong City Council explicitly banning the use of cling wrap on shelters, individuals were observed wrapping structures as early as 9:30am on Wednesday, December 31. The act, deemed antisocial by locals and officials alike, effectively privatises communal spaces intended for shared public use.
This behaviour was not isolated to plastic barriers. Reports emerged of a $160,000 Maserati parked across two spaces to reserve a spot, a move that typified the entitled attitude frustrating residents. The park transformed into a sprawling tent city, with many clearly staying overnight in vehicles and tents despite clear prohibitions against camping.
Local Frustration Boils Over
For Wollongong locals, who pride themselves on a more respectful community ethos compared to larger cities, the recurring trend is a source of significant anger. Fairy Meadow resident Alex O'Brien voiced the feelings of many, stating the area "stopped being a shared public space and became an exclusion zone" for anyone not part of a large, claim-staking group.
Mr O'Brien, also known for his activism, called for a major review of peak-period tourism management. He witnessed aggressive behaviour, including groups labelling others as "snitches" when council rangers attempted to intervene over parking. He emphasised the need for better planning, consistent rule enforcement, and more support for rangers to manage such situations effectively.
Council Response and Enforcement Challenges
Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown expressed disappointment that the cling-wrapping behaviour had persisted despite being called out the previous year. She reiterated that such actions are unacceptable and that everyone must treat public areas with respect.
However, Cr Brown highlighted a significant hurdle in enforcement. She explained that granting council rangers additional powers to issue fines or move people on would require substantial legislative change at the state government level. Currently, only police officers can issue formal move-on orders, leaving rangers with limited authority in confrontational situations. Cr Brown advised rangers to prioritise their own safety and walk away if faced with intimidation.
The celebrations themselves saw thousands flock to Stuart Park to welcome 2026, making the most of the holiday despite cancelled fireworks and grey weather. The scene included gazebos, barbecues, and even a group of Sydney men celebrating jovially from the back of a truck. Yet, the underlying tension over space-hogging and rule-flouting has left a bitter aftertaste, prompting renewed calls for solutions before the next major holiday influx.
