CARS will be banned when South Mole is partially reopened again this week, following a two-month closure triggered by illegal camper vans and a destructive backpacker rave. 

Fremantle Ports announced the mole would be opened to pedestrians and cyclists from yesterday (Friday, May 10). 

Problems with illegal campers had been mounting before the Mole was shut, including rubbish dumping, graffiti, and overuse of the public toilet. 

Fremantle Ports communications manager Neil Stanbury says the partial opening of the Mole – which is privately owned by Fremantle Ports – allows the public to utilise South Mole while preventing camping vehicles from parking illegally on the site. 

• Runners at last weekend’s Harbour Master Classic wouldn’t have had this much fun if they’d been dodging cars, says Fremantle Ports. Photo by Roel Loopers

“As South Mole’s got busier, we’re concerned it’s not safe for vehicles and pedestrians to interact,” Mr Stanbury said. 

“People will be able to stroll out on South Mole, walk their dog, ride their bike, all without having to interact with vehicles.

“Only last weekend we saw nearly 1000 runners on the mole for the Harbour Master Classic run event. 

“That was an example of the community enjoying South Mole in a way that couldn’t occur with cars.”

Mr Stanbury says the closure of the mole was justified, as some of the backpackers “ignored” warnings and infringements from the Ports before it was shut off completely. 

“Monitoring campers and issuing parking tickets hasn’t proven to be a viable solution,” he said. 

“It’s not as simple as calling the police, who have other more pressing duties.

“We had a problem that we could not tolerate, and we’ve responded in a responsible manner.

“We understand West Australians love the port and appreciate the beauty of South Mole. “We’re saying keep on doing that; but without driving out there.”

Fremantle Ports will seek community feedback for the closure until June 6 on its website.

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER