Shire ‘regrets’ parking alerts

The Shire of Broome has expressed regret after its rangers handed out parking warnings to people attending a funeral in the Kimberley town.

Hundreds of people packed into Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral to pay their respects to a Broome resident on June 23, who died after his four-wheel-drive rolled on an unsealed section of Broome to Cape Leveque Road.

Several of those who attended and had parked in ACROD bays and “locations considered hazardous” left to find they had received warnings, notifying them their parking could have warranted a $60 fine.

Shontell Neville, who was parked on a section of grass adjacent to the cathedral, was among those issued a warning and said it was insensitive of Shire rangers.

“I just felt that it was disrespectful and unnecessary on the Shire’s behalf,” she said.

“Everyone who wasn’t parked in a marked bay in sight had a warning left on their vehicle.

“I’ll admit some of the parking wasn’t the best but you would think they would have had some compassion, given the circumstances.

“It wasn’t happy hour at the pub, it was a funeral for a well-respected man.

“I think illegal parking is an issue around town, so perhaps the rangers could turn their attention to tourists who camp out in carparks at Cable Beach.”

Shire of Broome chief executive officer Sam Mastrolembo said he had spoken with Bishop of Broome Christopher Saunders since the warnings were distributed.

“I’ve corresponded with the Bishop of Broome and expressed regret for any additional distress caused to those who attended the funeral,” he said.

The Shire met with the bishop last week to discuss parking arrangements for future such occasions.