The Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has weighed in on a heated debate that’s been brewing on the country’s beaches.
The issue? People using portable cabanas to claim a patch of sand, effectively reserving it for themselves.
Albanese says this practice is “not on” and goes against the nation’s spirit of equality.
What’s the Big Deal About Portable Cabanas?
For those who may not know, Australia’s beaches are generally open to all, free of charge. Unlike some other countries, you don’t need to pay to reserve a spot to relax and soak up the sun.
However, with the recent heatwave bringing temperatures over 40C (104F) in some parts, some beachgoers have taken to setting up portable cabanas, chairs, and towels to claim their spot, often leaving them unattended for hours.
A Breach of the Australian Principle
Albanese believes that this practice is a breach of the Australian principle of equality. “One of the great things about Australia is that everyone owns the beach,” he said.
“Everyone is equal, and it’s a place where every Australian can come and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.” By reserving a spot with a cabana, people are essentially taking away from others the opportunity to enjoy the beach.
The Mayor’s Message: Be Kind and Considerate
Anthony Marsh, the Mornington Peninsula shire mayor, agrees that while cabanas are allowed, reserving space and then leaving is not the right thing to do.
His message to beachgoers is simple: “Be kind and considerate to your neighbour. If you’re going to use the beach, go for it, have a great time. But if you’re not going to use the beach, don’t take up space so other people can’t.”
A Matter of Fair Share
Christian Barry, a moral philosopher at the Australian National University, says that this debate speaks to how Australians view the concept of a “fair share of a common resource.”
He believes that people are objecting to the idea that some individuals are taking more than their fair share of the beach, and that this behavior is seen as entitlement to special treatment.
Barry says that beachgoers should use common sense and be prepared to make sacrifices to avoid conflicts.
The Verdict: Use Your Common Sense
Without specific laws or regulations governing cabana-use at the beach, it’s up to beachgoers to use their common sense and be considerate of others. So, the next time you head to the beach, remember to be kind to your fellow Australians and don’t hog the sand with your portable cabana. After all, the beach is for everyone to enjoy, not just a select few.