If Wollongong City Council thought its illegal camping problems were over after the Australia Day blitz at Stuart Park, it was wrong.
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Fed-up residents at Thirroul's The Esplanade have spoken out against campers in nearby Tingara Park, claiming they have long been disturbed by tents popping up over the Christmas, New Year and Australia Day holidays.
Resident Samantha Rouse, who has lived on the street for 18 years, said the tent trend was at least three years old.
She said police presence over the Australia Day long-weekend had been ineffective, as several tents remained for a number of days.
"I was woken up at 3.45am to the sound of tent pegs being hit into the ground," she said.
"And that came after already established campers kept me awake until 1am with their children running around the park.
"There are no toilets available for these campers during the night, which also raises hygiene issues."
Cars were also parked illegally, lining the grassy area behind Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club.
Resident Beryl Davis said she was woken up at 4am on Saturday by people running around the park waving around bright torches.
"These people wait until the last people using the picnic shed go, and then move in with their tents," she said.
"I don't think it's fair that people can camp overnight or longer with the full use of our facilities for free. It's been happening for years but it's more brazen now."
Another resident, Gretchen Armitage, said the campers left behind rubbish and took up so much space there wasn't enough room to kick a ball.
"It doesn't leave enough space for people who want to use the park for its primary purpose as a recreation area," she said.
"It was almost like a caravan park across the road."
The Esplanade residents said they wanted signs erected in the park, similar to those recently introduced at Stuart Park.
The signs depict the difference between a shade structure and a tent.
A council spokesman said the council was aware of the issue and would review its signage.
"Council is investigating the incidents and will review signage and management arrangements in these areas to ensure that park users understand their obligations," he said.