A growing trend of Sydneysiders paying others to reserve public picnic spots has reached Coogee, sparking debate over accessibility to shared spaces.
Public parks across Sydney, including Coogee Beach and Alison Park in Randwick, have become the centre of a growing trend where people are offering cash to secure picnic tables for events such as birthdays and weddings.
Recently, an Airtasker advertisement was posted offering $50 for someone to hold a picnic table at Alison Park from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. for a children’s birthday party. The post was widely shared online, with many criticising the idea of treating public spaces as private reservations.
Mixed Reactions
Some locals expressed their support for the trend. One resident acknowledged that finding suitable outdoor spaces for gatherings can be difficult, especially for families in units. The local also stated the challenges of not having a backyard for parties, so she will probably reserve a spot in advance too.
However, online responses to the trend have been overwhelmingly negative. Many Reddit users ridiculed the Airtasker ad, with one person suggesting that a fold-out table from Bunnings costs less than $50 and another saying the man should simply arrive early himself.
How Widespread Is the Trend?
Coogee is not the only location where people are paying to hold public spaces. Other Airtasker ads show similar offers:
- $175 to hold a park space for seven hours in Milperra ahead of a wedding.
- $230 to set up chairs and tables for an event in Cabarita from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- $150 to reserve a picnic area at Ramsgate Beach.
This growing commercialisation of public spaces raises concerns over fairness and accessibility, as parks are meant to be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What’s Next for Sydney’s Public Spaces?
As the trend spreads, it is unclear whether city authorities will step in to regulate the practice. If the demand continues, official reservation systems may be considered for popular parks such as those in Coogee, Randwick, and Milperra.
For now, public spaces remain free for all—as long as someone arrives early enough to claim them.
Published 7-Feb-2025
