Residents erupt over 'entitled' picnic table act at popular Aussie beach
A sign taped to the public picnic table by someone attempting to reserve the area has led to a heated discussion about what's allowed.
A photo taken by a frustrated local at a popular beach has once again sparked debate about picnic table etiquette, and whether or not they can be reserved by visitors hoping to score the ideal spot.
The controversial act was witnessed at what's believed to be Balmoral Beach, a sought-after picnic spot in Sydney's north. An image shows a typed-up sign taped to a public picnic table on Saturday which reads, "reserved 31/8 from 1pm" — with seemingly no one in sight.
The move labelled "unacceptable" by some, ruffled a few feathers after being exposed on Facebook by a frustrated Sydney woman. "Really? Love to know where you place the official booking. Both tables 'reserved'" she wrote.
In the comments, people noted reserving tables is "not allowed" — a sentiment also shared by Mosman Council when asked by Yahoo News Australia.
"Council does not take bookings for picnic tables or promote reserving them," a spokesperson told Yahoo.
People rage over frustrating picnic table etiquette
The controversial move has caused a stir in other council areas previously with it almost always not going down very well.
Previously, a "reserved" note etched in chalk on the pavement at a public park in Brisbane infuriated locals. Meanwhile, another reserved a table "for a birthday party" with a note imploring people to "please respect the space" and not to "mess up" the child's birthday by ignoring the signs.
Naturally, the latest incident copped a similar response from Sydney locals who deemed the move "entitled" and "unacceptable".
"Yeah, nah. Can’t reserve public tables. You want it, put the effort in and sit there the whole day from 8am," said one. "That photo should be the dictionary example of entitlement," another wrote.
"If you won't remove the reserved sign please update this post to add a picture of the group when they claim their tables. If they're that bold and brazen to make the reserved sign they will appreciate the free publicity," said one to the poster.
Meanwhile, one said, "ok if they said for a wedding or a super important event I would let them go for it" but others disagreed.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
