More than 850 parking infringements were issued in Macedon as people flocked to admire the autumn leaves.
Macedon Ranges council gave out 850 fines – and even more were issued by Macedon Ranges Highway Patrol officers from March 30 – May 7.
The area was patrolled more stringently than usual during this period to increase safety and enjoyment for the influx of autumn visitors.
Parking along the famous Honour Avenue was prohibited between 9am-5pm for the five and a half weeks, and the road’s speed limit was dropped to 40 kilometres an hour.
But despite the numerous signs, masses of people were caught leaving their cars along the road.
Locals said some people refused to recognise that Honour Avenue was even a road – with pedestrians regularly opting not to move off the road for cars, and even sitting and lying on the road for photo opportunities.
People were also spotted climbing fences into private properties to admire the scenery.
The thoroughfare to Mount Macedon was consistently crowded with pedestrians during daylight hours, unlike ordinary months when the avenue’s main traffic is cars.
Parking offences were particularly high over the Easter long weekend. The council issued 196 parking fines in Macedon between Friday, March 30 and Monday, April 2, on top of the fines issued by local police.
For the first time this autumn, the council placed a visitor information booth in Centennial Park over three weekends and on Anzac Day. The council estimates the booth promoted local businesses and other regional attractions to 3000 visitors.
Macedon Ranges council said it would implement these temporary measures again next year based on this year’s outcome.
