Big Easter crowds in parks and forests

Cyclone Ita failed to foil the Easter plans of many Queenslanders, with perfect weather and back to back long weekends resulting in bumper national park visitor numbers.

National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said it was proof that tourists were finding Queensland’s top locations even easier to visit, thanks to the Newman Government’s commitment to allow better access to protected areas.

“Many popular parks have been booked out and the coming weekend is also looking busy,” Mr Dickson said.

“Bookings for Easter were heavier than usual with more than 23,000 campers staying 81,000 nights over Easter 2014, compared with just under 20,000 campers staying approximately 68,000 nights for the same period last year.

“Anzac Day long weekend bookings are heavy but there are still spaces available in many parks and forests around the state. The parks east of the Dividing Range are looking great after recent rain, and day-trip options are plentiful.

“Some popular campgrounds are fully booked for the coming weekend, so book now, and consider taking a look at the less-known campgrounds.”

“Labor wanted to lock away these beautiful landscapes, but we are delivering on our promise to make Queensland’s national parks more available for everyone to enjoy.

“It is also growing tourism as promised at the election.”

Mr Dickson said the perfect autumn weather made for a very busy time throughout the South East region.

“Most camping areas are close to capacity, and picnic and day-use areas are also very popular – and it’s great to hear that visitors have been very well behaved,” he said.

“Park visitors made the most of the good weather in Townsville and Airlie Beach with campsites booked out at most locations. At Alligator Creek near Townsville, up to 120 people enjoyed the day visitor area, camping area, walking tracks and creeks.  

“Along the Great Barrier Reef more than 530 campers enjoyed camping throughout the Whitsunday islands.

“Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service staff in north Queensland put in a mighty effort after Tropical Cyclone Ita to have most areas open for Easter, and are continuing the clean-up and repairs.

“Campsites in the region were nearly fully booked, though day visitors were down.

“More than 220 visitors went through Chillagoe Caves on Saturday, and the weekend total was about 475, which is busier than normal.

“Anzac weekend is forecast to be a bit wet in the Wet Tropics, so why not head inland to Chillagoe-Mungana Caves National Park, or Undara Volcanic National Park?  Many people will be staying in Atherton and Cairns to see the national and World Cup mountain biking events.”

For bookings visitwww.nprsr.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 24 April 2014

Media contact: Michelle Buckworth 0418 433 647