Thirty-nine flood-affected national parks in Queensland have re-opened in time for the busy Easter long weekend.
Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said thousands of families and visitors were expected to turn out for the four-day period, after the Palaszczuk Government, rangers, First Nations Corporations, volunteers and community organisations mobilised to repair damaged tracks and clean up debris following recent floods across the south east.
“Easter has always been the most popular time of year for camping in our national parks,” Minister Scanlon said.
“We didn’t want to families to miss out on the experiences they normally have this time of year, nor did we want local communities and businesses to miss out on the economic injection the long weekend usually provides.
A study by UQ found the state’s national parks generate $2.64 billion in spending and help support more than 17,000 jobs.
Prior to COVID there were annually 2.6 million domestic day-trips to national parks, and 2.4 million overnight trips.
Last year, around 4,500 camping permits were granted for the Easter weekend and this year is looking similarly busy with around 4,000 permits granted to date.
“That’s why there was a mammoth effort not just by rangers, but also by First Nations Corporations, volunteers and community organisations to get facilities, tracks, mountain bike trails and water crossings back online, as well as clean tonnes of misplaced debris.
Much of the deluge impacted parks mainly on the Sunshine Coast, with sites now completely re-opened at Mapleton Fall National Park and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, as well as the Amamoor and Conondale National Park campgrounds.
“Not only have crews had to undertake massive repairs in often hard-to-get areas, but they’ve also had to carefully inspect every section of track to make sure it’s safe for visitors.
Minister Scanlon encouraged families who hadn’t planned their Easter holidays yet to consider exploring the state’s 551 national and conservation parks.
“Not only do you have some of the most beautiful natural wonders right on your doorstep – every time you visit a national park, you’re supporting local communities getting back up on their feet after floods and COVID.
“It’s why the Palaszczuk Government is investing a record $1.4 billion to protect the environment, upgrade and expand our national park network and drive our economic recovery from COVID-19.
Minister Scanlon said six parks remained remain fully-closed due to extensive damage.
“Before you head out, make sure you check you have the permits you’ll need, the clothing and equipment you’ll need, and check the status of the areas you’re visiting on the national parks website.”
