The eight Sydney teenagers caught trying to escape lockdown in an Airbnb in Catalina have been met with swift criticism from the Eurobodalla community.
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On Thursday, July 16 NSW Police confirmed the octet had travelled from Sydney's North Shore and Eastern Suburbs and were caught after being "dobbed in" by members of the public while staying at Catalina.
Chief Inspector Greg Flood said the teens had been very compliant with police and said they hadn't visited any venues in the 24 hours spent in Catalina.
"They were intending to quarantine in the Eurobodalla before returning to Canberra, but obviously that is inappropriate," he said.
"We received the information through Crime Stoppers and acted on it within a short number of hours and that group of people is no longer in the Eurobodalla."
Mr Flood said police were keeping a close watch on caravan parks and short stay accommodation areas as part of the regional response to COVID orders.
"We do feel for these kids and have sympathy for them because they were trying to get back to Canberra," he said.
"But we're here to ensure the public health guidelines are followed and we can't afford to have complacency."
Members of the public took to Facebook to share their anger about the situation, with some calling for Airbnb owners to be more vigilant.
Rules are in place for everyone, not just the ones who want do the right thing.
- Hellen Perrau
"[The teenagers] need more than a $1000 fine, they need to be named and shamed!," Dianne Grigson said.
"Rules are in place for everyone, not just the ones who want do the right thing," Hellen Perrau said.
Mr Flood said it was fantastic the community had been so responsive in helping police enforce the public health guidelines.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information is treated in strict confidence.