Cable Beach camel operators get the hump

The camel war on Cable Beach has reignited with two of the three operators saying a condition allowing train sizes to increase under “special circumstances” was grossly unfair and based on one person’s opinion.

Under Shire of Broome policy, Red Sun Camels, Broome Camel Safaris and Sundowner Camel Tours are normally allowed 18 dromedaries but the number can be extended to 20 if, for example, a cruise liner was visiting town or there was a big horse-race meeting, like the Broome Cup.

Red Sun Camels was given approval on March 10 for two additional animals from April 9-25 under delegation from council manager health, emergency and ranger services Ty Matson on the basis of school holidays meeting the criteria.

Owner John Geappen said he only used the 20 camels on five occasions during the permitted time period for a conference, a cruise ship visit and the school holidays.

Mr Geappen said he had to make an application to the council and that the two extra seats generated an additional $1500 income.

But Broome Camel Safaris owner Alison Bird and Sundowner Camel Tours boss Steve Madden said the permit condition did not represent an even playing field because all parties were not notified they qualified for the special condition to increase the size of their trains.

“The Shire should let us all know, it’s not fair,” Ms Bird said.

Mr Madden said he was currently using less than his contingent of camels because business was slow.

“I then go down to the beach and see Red Sun walking around with 20 camels, which I do not consider to be right,” he said.

“It is only fair that all operators are notified when the special condition to increase is met and just how the conditions are determined by one person also raises questions.

Mr Geappen said he had “played it by the book” and was given approval through the council.

“I did everything I was supposed to do to gain permission,” he said.

A council spokeswoman said there was no requirement for consultation with the other camel operators under current policy.