Single Mother Faces Eviction from Land She Owns
Beck Meyers, a single mother of two primary school-aged children, faces eviction from the land she owns in Campbells Creek, near Castlemaine.
Meyers and her children have been living on the land in a camp-style setup since September 2023, after they could no longer afford to rent. They share the land with Nathaniel Muller, who co-owns the property.
However, the Mount Alexander Shire Council has ordered them to leave by the end of the week, citing a bylaw that prohibits camping on land without an existing dwelling.
Meyers argues that their setup is not simply camping. They have large bell tents, dry storage, and a functional outdoor kitchen. They dispose of waste responsibly and use bore water and a mobile solar trailer for their needs.
She believes allowing her family to stay on their land is a sensible solution to the current housing crisis. They are happy living there and do not want to become another homeless family burdening the community.
The council, however, maintains that the land is not suitable for habitation due to its location in a bushfire-prone area, lack of formal access for emergency services, and proximity to a waterway.
The council acknowledges the housing stress in the area and is committed to helping those in need. They have released land for affordable housing development and removed permit requirements for camping on properties with existing dwellings.
However, in this case, the council believes the current situation poses safety risks and is not sustainable.
Meyers and Muller are exploring their options and seeking support to find alternative accommodation.