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Aussie bloke's hilarious revenge on parking inspectors

<p>An Aussie bloke has taken a devious revenge plan to the next level as he aims to even the score between him and parking inspectors. </p> <p>Julian Morgans, who is no stranger to receiving an influx of parking fines, decided to take a unique approach to revenge, giving new meaning to the phrase "if you can't beat them, join them".</p> <p>The man decided to play the ultimate prank on the parking inspectors by applying for a job to take up the role himself, documenting his plan on Instagram. </p> <p>"So, I get parking fines all the time, and I'm sick of it, so recently I decided to get revenge," he said in a video. </p> <p>"I started by applying for a job as a parking inspector and I went for an interview."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBt711zWh8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBt711zWh8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @julianmorgans</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>He got a call back from the recruiter saying they were happy with what he had to offer and gave him the job, but on day one of his new role, he set his devious plan in motion. </p> <p>"So, I went in on my first day, Monday morning, 9am, and they gave us our parking inspector uniform and this, for me, was the perfect opportunity to slip away and go to the pub," he said. "So, there I was. I'm at the pub, on the clock and they're paying me."</p> <p>"I'm in my parking inspector uniform and I'm just drinking beers and I played some pool, hung around and got a little drunk and I had a great time."</p> <p>He then mentioned that, later on, he received a call from his new employer to check in on how he was coping. </p> <p>"So, my phone just rang and it's the parking inspector office and I think they're wondering where I am, and I wasted a full day of their money," he said.</p> <p>He told his boss that he was quitting after his first day, expecting the boss to be angry since he hadn’t issued any parking fines, but was met with a very different reaction.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFL6A3Lza5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFL6A3Lza5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @julianmorgans</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"I don't want to do the job, I'm sorry," he said, while his new employer responded, "No, that's OK, that's fine, buddy, that's up to you."</p> <p>The employer continued with some words of advice, saying, "You'll be fine. Whatever you do, I'm sure you'll succeed because that's what you're meant to do. I wish you all the best, bud, and thanks for letting me know."</p> <p>Mr Morgans was shocked about how "cool" his boss was with him quitting after producing no work on day one, and in a matter of minutes changed his tune on parking inspectors. </p> <p>"I wanted him to be angry here, I wanted him to validate the whole thing. Instead, he was just kind of lovely," Mr Morgans said. </p> <p>"I think I'm surprised here because I've always thought of parking inspectors as just total animals. I was surprised to find that in an industry that I absolutely hate, some of the people are kind of lovely."</p> <p>While many flocked to the comments to share how funny they thought his day-long prank was, others were much more critical. </p> <p>"Do you give a crap about all the time of the employees of government you wasted?" one person wrote, while another added, "Here's a tip, just follow rules? There are limits on parking for a reason. Do you deserve to park somewhere all day more than anyone else?"</p> <p>Mr Morgans didn't argue back and, on reflection, acknowledged his emotions got the better of him as he planned the prank.</p> <p>"Very fair feedback. I knew it wasn't a morally perfect stunt but I got my car towed a few months ago and got mad. This was my divisive but cathartic response," he said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

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“Lesson learnt”: Expat fined for parking mistake

<p>A British expat has copped a hefty fine after going against a "common sense" road rule.</p> <p>The man had just moved to Sydney and was visiting the famous beaches in Shoalhaven, NSW when he copped a $200 fine for parking on the wrong  side of the road, facing against the direction of traffic flow.</p> <p>“Never heard of this before. It didn’t say anything about no parking and I’ve come back, and I’ve got a ticket, ” he said n the video posted on social media. </p> <p>While it is an offence in Australia, in the UK the parking technique is permitted, except at night. </p> <p>“Lesson learnt,” he ended his clip.</p> <p>The video received a lot of comments, with one asking the obvious question: “Didn’t you see what the other cars were doing?”</p> <p>Another added: “If the cars are all facing the one way, park that way. Why would you park facing the wrong way then all the other cars are facing the other way?” </p> <p>“Wasn’t it obvious?” a different person questioned.</p> <p> </p> <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important; width: 535px;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7462819112226540833&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40archoz_2025%2Fvideo%2F7462819112226540833&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-useast2a.tiktokcdn.com%2Ftos-useast2a-p-0037-euttp%2FogAIQEeARJOEnAQfRA5kCUnTbHGDECF1PRWDjH%7Etplv-dmt-logom%3Atos-useast2a-i-0068-euttp%2Fo0nbEYRzCBSwQAAwr8ARPoEAiB5iZIQdj0FCv.image%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1737849600%26x-signature%3DbzHLO2CQeaQN%252BZr1Nmm%252Fw5t8q1A%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>Others told him that it was just "common sense" but he insisted that everyone in the UK parks in different directions” despite also driving on the left-hand side of the road.</p> <p>A few people explained why they think the rule exists. </p> <p>“I think it’s because to get out of that park you would have to drive into oncoming traffic,” one user suggested. “Maybe in the UK your lanes are small and this would be okay but 99 per cent of our roads are wide and this is not needed.”</p> <p>“And to get into that park in the first place, you have to drive on the wrong side,” another person pointed out.</p> <p>Some British commenters could relate to the man's mistake, saying:  “I’ve been caught out doing this too,” and “It did my head in when I first moved here!”</p> <p>The penalty for parking in the wrong direction of travel can reach up to 257, and in school zones, this fine can increase to $330 plus two demerit points.</p> <p><em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Images: TikTok</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Cheeky and playful": Five-year-old remembered after being killed by parking meter

<p>Tributes have poured in for a five-year-old boy who was tragically crushed by a parking meter at a museum in Western Australia. </p> <p>Paramedics were called following reports the five-year-old, known as Sammy, had been critically injured by the disused parking meter outside the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, about 170km south of Perth, on January 15th.</p> <p>Sammy was airlifted to Perth Children’s Hospital where he later died from his injuries. </p> <p>In a statement, Sammy’s family thanked everyone for their support following the death of the young boy who “brought so much joy”. </p> <p>“We are so grateful for the support that we have received from family, friends and the general public,” the family said. </p> <p>“We would also like to acknowledge the support from the staff at the museum, first responders and the care given to Sammy at the BRH and PCH, which was so loving and respectful." </p> <p>“Sammy impacted everyone he met. He was wise beyond his years and brought so much joy with his cheeky, playful nature.”</p> <p>More than $21,000 has been raised by the community for the boy’s family as they come to terms with the tragedy.</p> <p>The GoFundMe campaign was set up to help with ongoing expenses “during this difficult time”. </p> <p>“This tragedy has deeply impacted those who know and love this family, as well as the hospital staff, colleagues, friends, and community members who have been involved,” the GoFundMe campaign said.</p> <p>“No family should have to face such heartbreak while also worrying about financial burdens. Let’s come together as a community and show this family they are not alone."</p> <p>A spokesman for WorkSafe WA previously told media the boy had been hit by a disused parking meter in a courtyard at the Bunbury Museum, not the parking area.</p> <p>City of Bunbury chief executive Alan Ferris told the ABC the city would work closely with authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident, as an investigation into the incident remains ongoing. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine</em></p>

Caring

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Tradie fights "unfair" fine for parking across his own driveway

<p>A frustrated tradie is fighting an "unfair" fine he copped for parking in his own driveway.</p> <p>Mark Fricker, a builder from Newcastle, was photographed last September by a council camera when his ute was briefly stopped across his driveway with two wheels in the gutter of the bus zone that fronts his property.</p> <p>The man was only parked in the precarious spot for a few minutes to open the gate to his home. </p> <p>He only became aware of the alleged offence when he received a fine about 10 days later, with the penalty notice saying he was parked in a bus zone and was required to pay $320. </p> <p>The fine was generated by the council’s mobile licence plate recognition technology with cameras attached to council cars patrolling the city’s streets to monitor parking offences.</p> <p>Fricker told <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/tradie-fights-unfair-320-parking-fine-after-common-driveway-act-050252102.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Yahoo News</em></a> the fine was ‘unfair’ and would not have been issued if a ranger was on the scene to see what was going on.</p> <p>While he attempted to take up the matter with his local council, he was referred back to Revenue NSW and felt he had no option but to contest the fine in court.</p> <p>“If it had been a person and not a car, they wouldn’t have issued the fine,” Fricker said.</p> <p>“I don’t feel an automated camera system is right. If a ranger had seen me park there, get out and open the gate, and move the car in, he wouldn’t have worried about it. He could see that I’m not a threat or danger to a bus, or passengers getting on or off, so it wouldn’t have happened."</p> <p>Fricker's dispute is just one of many to arise from the increased use of controversial ticketless parking fine systems used by councils across NSW.</p> <p>There was a 49 per cent surge in ticketless parking fines issued in NSW during the 2023-24 financial year, with revenue from ticketless fines surged to $158 million for that period, up 54 per cent on the previous year.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Newcastle Herald</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate

<p>Frustrated staff at a Coles-owned bottle shop in Brisbane have taken matters into their own hands and retaliated against drivers flouting parking rules outside their store. </p> <p>Management at a First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead have locked in cars taking advantage of the customer-only spaces. </p> <p>It is understood that some cars remain parked in the 15-minute spots for extended periods, sometimes overnight, despite signs saying that fines apply. </p> <p>A photo shared on Facebook showed a car with P-plates blocked in by a yellow bollard and note that read: "Due to you not adhering to the parking rules, your vehicle has been locked in by management and will be kept on record." </p> <p>"Please see First Choice management to discuss your options".</p> <p>A local woman who shared the photos said there "were at least two other cars locked in" when she was passing by this week. </p> <p>Locals were divided by the store's actions, but many supported their decision.</p> <p>"About time. Pub takes all the spaces," one said. "I’ve been there when the store opens and there have been no car spaces available".</p> <p>"Don’t park where you shouldn’t. It’s simple," another added. </p> <p>A third said it was "about bloody time" something was done about the parking. </p> <p>However, a few others had a more understanding approach, with one local saying that the limited parking in a large apartment complex across the road could be contributing to the limited parking. </p> <p>Another suggested the staff had gone too far, noting the importance of being able to "flee" in a hurry, particularly in violent situations. </p> <p>"The thought of their vehicle being blocked in by bollard, should an unthinkable situation arise, is horrific to think of," she said.</p> <p>"While I understand this would be frustrating for your shop, it could be putting someone’s life in danger — as another perspective to think of."</p> <p>Coles have responded to the management's actions explaining that their commitment to customers means  providing "parking and clear access to our stores."</p> <p>"The Newstead store carpark is owned by Coles and has signage throughout the carpark informing locals about parking time restrictions which are also painted on the parking bays," a Coles spokesperson told <em>Yahoo News</em>.</p> <p>"To ensure we are making our stores more accessible for customers, our store team may use its discretion to remind the community of the parking rules.”</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Mother of baby scalded in park makes sad admission

<p>The mother of baby Luka, who was just nine-months-old when he was attacked by a stranger in a Brisbane park, has made a heartbreaking admission about her son's healing process. </p> <p>Baby Luka and his mother were enjoying the sun in Hanlon Park on August 27th when a stranger approached and poured boiling hot coffee over the baby boy. </p> <p>The nine-month-old was rushed to hospital, while the man accused of the attack remains at large. </p> <p>Luka, now one-year-old suffered serious burns to 60 per cent of his body, including his face, upper body and arms, and has undergone seven operations since the attack. </p> <p>The young boy's mum has now revealed that it may take her son up to one year to fully recover as he heals from the mental, emotional and physical damages from the attack. </p> <p>"In those first few weeks, we had no idea what his future was going to look like, especially because the burns were so significant," she told <a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/baby-luka-on-the-road-to-recovery-after-hot-coffee-attack-but-suspect-years-from-day-in-court/news-story/c6dd3c9c8f68d493faba84a655e7cf90" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener"><em>The Courier Mail</em>.</a></p> <p>"He didn't have a bath for, like, a month when he had all the bandages, and when we poured water over his head when we had a bath, he started screaming."</p> <p>Luka's mum said her son was still "wary" around people and had become shy when in a group setting, as opposed to his confidence around others before the incident. </p> <p>The woman went on to say her son's skin had "healed really well" since the synthetic skin grafts; however, his dad explained it would take years for the scars to settle. </p> <p>"We are definitely optimistic at this point, he already looks better than we ever thought," Luka's father said. </p> <p>"Hopefully by the time he becomes a teenager you won't even be able to see the scars anymore."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News / Facebook</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Hero kindergarten teacher remembered at community park vigil

<p>Hundreds of people have gathered in a vigil to honour Eleanor Bryant, the speech pathologist killed by an <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/heroic-kindergarten-teacher-identified-after-horror-crash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">out-of-control water tanker</a> that crashed into a Victorian kindergarten earlier this week.</p> <p>Friends, colleagues and first responders gathered at Lions Park in Riddells Creek to pay tribute to the mother of two, with flower tributes growing for the heroic kindergarten teacher. </p> <p>Macedon Ranges Shire Council chief executive Bernie O'Sullivan said the vigil aimed to provide connection and support for the grieving community.</p> <p>"Eleanor Bryant was such a beautiful person and her impact and reach [was received] in such a positive way," O'Sullivan said.</p> <p>"It's still really raw and a massive shock to this tight-knit community in Riddells Creek."</p> <p>The mother-of-two has been remembered by her family for her caring and down-to-earth nature. </p> <p>"She was the light of our lives: a cherished mother, wife, daughter and sister, and beloved by all her family and enormous network of friends," they previously said in a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/she-was-the-light-of-our-lives-family-s-tribute-to-hero-kindergarten-teacher" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a>.</p> <p>A three-year-old boy was injured in the crash. </p> <p>The 68-year-old driver of the truck, who was believed to have suffered a medical episode, was taken to hospital but has since been discharged, and no charges have been laid. </p> <p><em>Images: Nine</em></p>

Caring

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Fury over black market for disabled parking permits

<p>An investigation has uncovered a rise in the black market for disabled and mobility permits on online classified sites.</p> <p>According to motoring news outlet <a href="https://www.drive.com.au/caradvice/outrage-after-disabled-parking-permits-spotted-for-sale-online/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Drive</em></a>, some users around Australia are using Facebook and other social media outlets to sell their unused mobility parking permits to give other drivers unauthorised access to disabled parking spots.</p> <p>The publication unearthed one permit for sale in Sydney was priced at $500 and valid until 2028.</p> <p>The permit was equipped with the holder, photo ID, and a description stating the buyer will get free unmetered parking and that the permit is valid Australia-wide.</p> <p>A spokesperson for Transport NSW told <em>Drive</em> this practice is illegal and carries large fines for both the purchaser and seller, adding that the permit holder is subject to cancellation for misuse.</p> <p>“The sale of mobility parking permits online is illegal, and Transport for NSW urges anyone who is aware of this happening to report it to NSW Police," the spokesperson said. “These permits are reserved only for people with permanent or temporary mobility challenges as assessed by a medical professional."</p> <p>“The regulatory penalty for misuse of a permit is currently a penalty notice of $818 or a maximum court-imposed penalty of $2200 under the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2021. This includes ‘permitting another person to have possession of it’.”</p> <p>A spokesperson for the Department of Social Services Australia went on to stress the importance of not buying a mobility parking permit if you are not legally entitled to one.</p> <p>“Australia’s Disability Strategy recognises that people with disability should be supported to live more accessible and connected lives within their communities, including being able to fully participate in social, recreational, and cultural events," the spokesperson said.</p> <p>“The inappropriate use of accessible parking spaces can negatively impact people with disability.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Drive / Facebook</em></p>

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China expert reveals new theory on why man scalded baby in park

<p>An expert on Chinese social issues has shed new light on the potential motive behind the attack on a baby in a Brisbane park. </p> <p>In August, nine-month-old Luka was enjoying Hanlon Park with his mother when the man poured boiling hot coffee on the infant before fleeing the scene. </p> <p>Police identified the attacker as a 33-year-old man from China, who travelled to his home country after the attack, evading capture by police. </p> <p>As many hypothesise about the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/alleged-motive-of-man-who-scalded-baby-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">motive</a> behind the attack, Will Sterzel, a prominent critic of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), said the attack follows a trend of similar attacks in China. </p> <p>Sterzel, who lived in China for 14 years but left for America after the CCP criticised his vocalness over his frustration with the government, explained that the man's attack on baby Luka is reflective of his own social life and displeasure with state bureaucracy. </p> <p>"When his latest application for a visa was rejected, he did what so many in China do: lashed out and took revenge on society by attacking a child," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"He even said to his friend that he wanted to take revenge on white people."</p> <p>According to Mr Sterzel, the phenomenon reflects a deep-seated frustration that some Chinese nationals feel about the living conditions under the ruling Communist Party.</p> <p>"What it boils down to at the root of it all is injustice," Mr Sterzel claimed. </p> <p>He went on to explain that China lacks government support - such as mental health services, public funds or charities - for those in situations of misfortune, prompting many people to lash out. </p> <p>"When you're down on your luck the government will not help you in China, there are no social programs and if your family isn't willing to float you you're done for," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"There simply are no mental health facilities or systems in place to deal with mental health. So, when people snap and are at wit's end they have no recourse, they're not allowed to blame the government, they cannot strike or protest or petition or take action."</p> <p>"They have nowhere to turn and so they selfishly lash out at society trying to inflict as much damage as possible and in China children are the most precious and important part of society."</p> <p>Mr Sterzel explained that children in China are faced with a lot of responsibility, and are often forced to be providers for their entire family. </p> <p>"All that the entire family's future rides on how good a job the child gets," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"So, by attacking and murdering young children these disgruntled cowards inflict huge damage to society disrupting the plans and livelihoods of multiple generations. The grandparents can no longer retire, the parents' lives are destroyed and China's already shrinking demographics get smaller."</p> <p>"They have inflicted maximum damage to society."</p> <p>Mr Sterzel stressed that "revenge against society" attacks were not cultural tradition, adding, "This is a problem that's continuing to grow in China and unfortunately get exported abroad."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Queensland Police / 9News</em></p>

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$22,000 fine imposed on Waratah thieves

<p>A spate of thefts of one of Australia's most iconic native plants have prompted a furious warning from authorities. </p> <p>More than 20 Waratahs have "disappeared" from the Brisbane Water National Park on the Central Coast alone, according to NSW National Parks, and thieves can risk a potential fine of  $22,000 for hacking the bright flower. </p> <p>“It is illegal to pick waratahs or any other plant in any area protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act,” an NPWS spokesperson told <em>Yahoo News</em>. </p> <p>Rangers can issue a $300 on-the-spot fine to those caught illegally picking the flower.</p> <p>“The maximum fine under the Biodiversity Conservation Act is $22,000. NPWS is keen to receive details of anyone illegally picking waratahs.”</p> <p>Over the long weekend, locals in the Blue Mountains have hit out at "selfish" tourists for "ripping" waratahs from their stems, with images of the act posted on social media. </p> <p>“Just went to check on a beautiful double header waratah in local bushland only to find someone, well prepared with their secateurs, has cut it clean off. Beyond disgusted!” environmental conservation organisation Wild Blue Mountains said.</p> <p>“This is just not on. They had been giving joy to everyone who passed them but now they’re gone due to one person’s selfish actions.”</p> <p>Last week, NSW National Parks had installed signage about “helping protect the Waratah” to deter culprits from taking them and they've even painted some of the stems with a “non-toxic blue paint”.</p> <p>“Waratahs need to go through their full lifecycle to produce seeds, so picking them deprives the ecosystem of a new generation of plants,” NSW National Parks said.</p> <p>“These flowers are more than just a pretty face, they also provide nectar for birds and other native animals. Please leave them be so we can all enjoy more of these beautiful flowers in years to come.</p> <p>“If you want to pick something in a national park, pick your nose instead!”</p> <p><em>Image: NSW National Parks/Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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Man accused of scalding baby in park identified

<p>The man accused of pouring scalding hot coffee over a nine-month-old baby in a Brisbane park has finally been identified, after fleeing the country. </p> <p>On August 27th, baby Luka was in Hanlon Park with his mother when a man approached them and poured hot coffee over the infant, leaving him with lifelong injuries. </p> <p>The man then fled the country before he could be identified or detained by police. </p> <p>Now, the man in question has now been identified as a 33-year-old Chinese national who was in Australia on a student visa. </p> <p>He allegedly fled the scene after gravely injuring the child and drove over the state border to Sydney, where he flew out of the country on August 31st.</p> <p>Queensland Police have since put an arrest warrant out for the man for intending to cause grievous bodily harm, which carried a maximum penalty of a life sentence.</p> <p>Police said he had no family or criminal record in Australia and had previously worked in Queensland, NSW and Victoria, with Chinese media reporting that the man was born in Hangzhou, China.</p> <p>“Queensland Police are working with national and international partner agencies to progress this investigation further,” a statement from Queensland Police said.</p> <p>Speaking to <em>4BC</em> Radio on Thursday morning, Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Andrew Massingham said police were “very much committed” to arresting the man. </p> <p>“Our international search continues for the person that committed that horrendous crime,” he said. “That child will have those injuries for life.”</p> <p> Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton previously revealed the man fled the country just 12 hours after they identified him.</p> <p>“Detectives are devastated that they missed this person by 12 hours. I was deflated, but that deflation quickly turns into determination and resilience to get the job done.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News / Queensland Police</em></p> <p> </p>

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"It's just not OK": Parking inspectors under fire for fining innocent drivers

<p>Melbourne drivers are being hit with parking fines despite not doing anything wrong, raising questions about the legitimacy of the infringement notices. </p> <p>Emma Hodgkinson from Essendon told<em> 9News</em> that she was fined for supposedly overstaying in a two-hour parking zone. </p> <p>"I was furious, it's just not OK" she told the publication. </p> <p>Hodkinson had only left her house 40 minutes prior to the time stamp on the fine, and used CCTV footage from her home to prove it. </p> <p>"When I saw the timecode on the footage and I compared it to the time on the ticket I realised I hadn't done anything wrong and it was their mistake," she said.</p> <p>Many other drivers have had similar experiences, with one man from Richmond saying he received a $99 penalty earlier this month, despite having almost an hour left on his Pay Stay app. </p> <p>Another driver was fined by Stonnington Council who said he had parked for more than two hours even though he'd only been there for about 20 minutes. </p> <p>In most of these examples, many other cars in the same area had also been fined. </p> <p>"I was able to prove I was innocent but how are [the other drivers] going to be able to prove that?" Hodgkinson said.</p> <p>Council Watch representative Dean Hurlston said the reason why innocent drivers are being fined could be because council parking inspectors have to hit their quotas. </p> <p>"We know the job of a parking inspector is well paid for good reason," he told <em>9News</em>.</p> <p>"They definitely have quotas. Councils need money, they're cash strapped. This is a way to gouge and raise revenue."</p> <p>If you've been unfairly fined, it is important to collect as much evidence as possible, including photos and screenshots. </p> <p><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

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"Drivers deserve better": Huge win for motorists over parking fines

<p>In a move to stop unsuspecting drivers being hit with unfair parking fines, NSW councils will soon be banned from issuing a fine without a physical ticket. </p> <p>Finance Minister Courtney Houssos will legislate to effectively ban ticketless parking fines after council raked in $155 million in sneaky fines last year.</p> <p>Ms Houssos will introduce legislation later in September, which will require parking rangers to attach an “on-the-spot notification” to a car which gets a fine either in the form of a sticker or a traditional parking ticket.</p> <p>Ticketless parking fines were first introduced under former Premier Gladys Berejiklian in 2020, with councils issuing a whopping 822,310 ticketless parking fines last financial year, up almost 50 per cent from the year before.</p> <p>Ms Houssos said forcing councils to leave a note telling drivers they had been fined, rather than waiting for a fine to come ion the mail weeks later, was a victory for common sense.</p> <p>"No one ever likes to get a parking fine, but the idea you only find out about a fine weeks later doesn’t pass the common sense test,” she said.</p> <p>“Frustration among drivers and community members about the ticketless parking system is high – and that’s fair enough. The ticketless parking fine system was introduced by the previous government without regard for the impact on drivers and families,” she said.</p> <p>NSW Premier Chris Minns also backed the move, saying, “Drivers deserve better than the current system."</p> <p>In certain limited circumstances, rangers will be able to issue a fine without leaving a ticket, but only if they install new-warning signs, which could include areas where there is no phone reception, like national parks, or in timed enclosed car parks.</p> <p>NRMA Spokesman Peter Khoury said the government’s changes will rebuild public confidence, saying, “Ticketless parking fines removed transparency and made it almost impossible for motorists to contest their fine if they felt they had a legitimate case.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

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Jackie O breaks down over baby scalded in Brisbane park

<p>Jackie O has broken down live on air while talking to the heartbroken mother whose baby boy was scalded in a Brisbane Park. </p> <p>Baby Luka and his mother were enjoying the sun in Hanlon Park on August 27th when a stranger approached and poured boiling hot coffee over the baby boy. </p> <p>Luka has since undergone three surgeries, while the man accused of the horrific attack has allegedly fled the country, according to police. </p> <p>The grief-stricken mother, who has not been publicly identified, spoke with Kyle and Jackie O on Friday morning and said her infant son will continue to have surgery every four days for the next four weeks at the least, as doctors attempt to repair the nine-month-old’s burns.</p> <p>“After that it's once a week for two weeks. And then it should okay, all going well and everything healing,” she said. “But then after there's scar management stuff as well on top of that.”</p> <p>The mother provided a heartwarming update on Luka’s progress after he was released from hospital on Monday, saying he is “smiling” and “walking”.  </p> <p>"He's not letting this - he (the alleged attacker) hasn't taken away my son's soul,” she said.</p> <p>“Like, he is beautiful, and he is strong, and he is brave and resilient. And I'm so lucky to be his mum. I'm just really sad this has happened."</p> <p>Jackie O was visibly moved while talking to the woman, breaking down in tears live on air. </p> <p>The KIISFM host told Luka's mother, "You can't imagine that kind of evil, and your poor bubba, it's so evil."</p> <p>"It makes you so angry because he's just a little innocent boy who never did anything to anyone," she added as she became overwhelmed with emotion.</p> <p>Her co-host Kyle Sandilands also shared his devastation as he admitted he was left in floods of tears when he first heard of Luka's brutal injuries on the news.</p> <p>"In all honesty, I was in tears in the lounge when I saw the story. Everyone understands it's s**t, but when you've got your own child running around you while you're in tears watching the news," he shared.</p> <p>Kyle and Jackie vowed to give $10,000 to the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/baby-lukas-medical-treatments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> set up to help raise funds for Luka's hospital treatment, adding to the $160,000 that has already been donated.</p> <p>With an original target of just $5,000, the mother gushed, "I cannot believe the generosity of the community and you know, it warms my heart and, you know, all the messages and the kindness and yeah, it makes the process a little bit easier."</p> <p><em>Image credits: KIISFM / 9News</em></p>

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Miracle update on baby boy scalded in public park

<p>The mother of the nine-month-old boy who was scalded in a Brisbane park has shared a positive update on his condition as he awaits his third surgery. </p> <p>Baby Luka and his mother were enjoying the sun in Hanlon Park on August 27th when a stranger approached and poured boiling hot coffee over the baby boy. </p> <p>The nine-month-old was rushed to hospital, while the man accused of the attack remains at large. </p> <p>On Monday, Luka's mother shared that her son is up and walking again for the first time since the attack ahead of a third surgery that she hoped would deliver “more information about the next steps”.</p> <p>“Luka has been incredibly resilient. He’s up and about, walking and causing chaos. He is such a strong little boy and we are so so proud of him,” she said.</p> <p>The woman also confirmed that Luka suffered serious burns, with those under his neck and chest likely to scar, as the prospect of a skin graft has been raised by doctors. </p> <p>She said she had been "blown away" by the support she and her family had received through a GoFundMe campaign set up to pay for Luka's medical expenses.</p> <p>"This GoFundMe will be able to support Luka with all of his ongoing care needs which is truly a weight lifted off our shoulders," the woman said.</p> <p>“Not only that it will also support myself, my family, and ongoing mental health, given the nature of the event this will be an extremely long journey ahead for us all.”</p> <p>The fundraiser, that had a goal of just $5,000, surpassed $110,000 on Monday. </p> <p>Police earlier described the man they wish to speak to in connection to the attack as between 30-40 years old, of a proportionate build, with tanned skin. He was wearing a black hat, glasses, a shirt and shorts at the time Luka was burned. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News / Facebook</em></p>

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New details and pics emerge after baby scalded by stranger in Brisbane park

<p>New photos and details have emerged of the nine-month-old baby who was scalded by a stranger in a park in Brisbane.</p> <p>Police have alleged that a man, between 30 and 40 years old, tipped hot coffee over a baby in Hanlon Park on Wednesday before <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/manhunt-after-stranger-pours-scalding-hot-coffee-on-baby-in-public-park" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fleeing the scene</a>. </p> <p>On Thursday morning, police released new images of a man they wish to speak to in relation to the alleged assault.</p> <p>Police said the man was of an average build and with tanned skin and was wearing a black hat, glasses, a checkered button-up shirt and shorts at the time of the attack. </p> <p>The plea from police comes after an image of the baby in hospital was released, with the nine-month-old completely wrapped in bandages. </p> <p>After the incident, the baby was rushed to Queensland Children's Hospital and has since undergone surgery for burns to his face and chest, reportedly suffering serious burns to 60 per cent of his body including his face, neck, chest and arms.</p> <p>A friend of the baby's mother, Zara Mazza, shared an update with <em>The Project</em> on Wednesday night, recalling how she was sitting down with her own son and looked up to see a man standing above her friend’s nine-month-old baby. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_Nruwavg67/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_Nruwavg67/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Project (@theprojecttv)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“This man was standing above him, behind him, and poured a Thermos of hot coffee over him. He just started screaming,” she told the program.</p> <p>Ms Mazza said she tried to chase the man but he was “very fast”, and she tripped while attempting to keep up.</p> <p>“Essentially all I could hear was his mum screaming that it’s hot. ‘It’s hot, it’s hot coffee’, so I ran back and as I ran back picked up my water bottle and dumped it over him,” she said.</p> <p>“I removed him from his mum and we laid him down on the picnic rug and we peeled his clothes away, which revealed the peeling of his skin, his skin had started to blister.”</p> <p>Bystanders reportedly came over with filled water bottles to pour over the baby, before a nurse in training offered up a shower at her nearby apartment so water could constantly be running on him.</p> <p>“Very grateful. The ambulance came really quickly, I think it was within five minutes. Police, too,” Ms Mazza said.</p> <p>“It was chaotic. It happened really quickly.”</p> <p>The baby’s mother is reportedly “really traumatised” after the incident, as Ms Mazza said, “She’s got a lot of anxiety right now. She’s not been able to sleep very well, if at all. So definitely struggling.”</p> <p>“Bub is in a stable condition … they say that he’ll need regular dressing changes under anaesthetic over the next weeks. They don’t know how long, but, yeah. It’s gonna take a while.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News / Queensland Police</em></p>

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Manhunt after stranger pours scalding hot coffee on baby in public park

<p>Queensland Police have released footage of the man they believe burned a baby with a scalding hot drink in a public park. </p> <p>On Wednesday, the unknown man approached the family at Hanlon Park in Brisbane and poured hot coffee on the nine-month-old baby boy.</p> <p>He was rushed to the Queensland Children’s Hospital with burns to his face, upper body and arms, with the burns covering 60 per cent of his body.</p> <p>Queensland Police have now released CCTV footage from the area, showing a man running from the park.</p> <p>He appears approximately 30 to 40 years old, with a proportionate build and tanned skin, and was wearing a black hat, glasses, a shirt and shorts.</p> <p>Anyone who recognises the man has been urged to contact the police with information. </p> <p>An off-duty nurse heard the commotion in the park from the balcony of her apartment, telling <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/footage-of-man-who-burnt-baby-with-hot-drink-at-hanlon-park-in-stones-corner-released-c-15856522" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a></em> she went outside to investigate when she heard screaming. </p> <p>She said she heard the child’s mother yelling “my baby, my baby”.</p> <p>The nurse rushed down to the park to help the boy, taking him to her nearby apartment where he was placed under a cold shower before paramedics arrived.</p> <p>Locals told 7News the attack was “terrible” and they were shocked it had happened in their community.</p> <p>“It’s really scary when you think that we haven’t got a community that looks after our young and vulnerable,” one woman said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Queensland Police</em></p>

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Aussie motorist's act of defiance against parking fees

<p>Aussie drivers have been warned against replicating a cheeky way a motorist tried to pay for parking at a cashless parking meter.</p> <p>The motorist wasn't able to pay for his parking charges with a card, so instead they erected a sign in his car with gold coins attached, proving they are good for the parking fees. </p> <p>The driver said the cashless revolution doesn't "suit their lifestyle", but added they are "willing to pay for parking with these coins any day of the week". </p> <p>Despite displaying their method of payment, the  North Sydney Council, who recently upgraded all their parking meters to cashless ones, explained to <em><a href="https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/major-136-fine-warning-after-fed-up-aussies-3-cashless-act-of-defiance-023528239.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo</a> Finance</em> this method could massively backfire.</p> <p>"The only way to avoid being fined is to comply with the signage restrictions for the space in which you have parked," a Council spokesperson said.</p> <p><span style="background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: YahooSans VF, Yahoo Sans, YahooSans, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="caret-color: #1d2228;">"In metered spaces, you must pay using our parking meters. You are likely to receive a fine if </span></span></span>you leave a note and do not pay," with parking fines in this council setting you back $136. </p> <p>After the driver's unique payment method garnered attention on social media, many agreed with their sentiment saying there should always be an option for people to pay with cash.</p> <p>"Should always have a cash option," wrote one user, while another said, "How can they expect everyone to be credit card online app savvy anyway and download it while standing in the street? I have so much trouble paying."</p> <p>A third added, "This is a great idea, but the inspectors do not have a sense of humour, they just issue you with a fine."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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