Rangers prepare for Easter influx

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers have been busy preparing national parks and State forests for the Easter influx, and campers are advised to get in and book for one of the biggest holiday periods of the year.

National Parks Minister Dr Steven Miles said Easter was traditionally seen as one of the last opportunities of the warmer weather for families to get outdoors and enjoy a camping break.

“While technically the Easter break is an autumn holiday our glorious climate means that for many Queenslanders and visitors to our great state it’s seen as the last hurrah before we break out the winter woollies,” Dr Miles said.

“Camping areas in our national parks traditionally fill up fast so I encourage holidaymakers to jump online and book a spot nice and early to avoid disappointment.”

Teewah Beach is full tonight and tomorrow (Saturday) night but there is still some capacity after that, but other camping areas at Cooloola are already fully booked for the long weekend. It’s also too late to find a spot at Bribie Island and most camping areas on Moreton Island have also been snapped up, but after the weekend there is still good availability.

People who fancy a cool change over the holidays are encouraged to visit Kroombit Tops north of Monto, where it’s always 5 degrees cooler than the lowlands.

“Whether your destination this Easter is Fraser Island, a cool mountain retreat or any of Queensland’s other many and varied national parks and State forests, plan your trip well in advance, keep an eye on the weather and always check the park alerts before you leave home,” Dr Miles said.

Easter is one of the busiest times of year on Fraser Island and is also a season of high activity for the local dingo population.

“Easter just happens to coincide with dingo mating season, which generally runs from March to May each year,” Dr Miles said.

“Dingoes can be unpredictable at this time of year and it’s vital to be aware of the need to be dingo-safe at all times’.

It’s estimated between 100 to 200 dingoes roam Fraser Island’s 166,000 hectares. Numbers increase after breeding, and then decline due to natural attrition.

“Rangers will be increasing their patrols and will be out and about speaking to visitors and spreading the dingo safety messages,’ Dr Miles said.

“The most important message for families with young children is the recommendation to stay in one of the fenced camping areas'.

In addition:

• NEVER feed dingoes
• Always stay within arm’s reach of children, even small teenagers
• Walk in groups
• Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
• Camp in fenced areas when possible
• Lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat)
• Never store food or food containers in tents
• Secure all rubbish, fish and bait.

Online bookings and the latest park alerts are available on the National Parks, Sport and Racing website at www.npsr.qld.gov.au

ENDS

MEDIA 0412 393 909