MILLION-DOLLAR FACELIFT FOR BRIBIE ISLAND

Bribie Island visitors can now enjoy million-dollar improvements to recreational facilities and services including upgrades to Ocean Beach campground, the development of the Fort Walks and a 22km forest drive through the island’s interior.

Launching the improvements on Bribie Island today, Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the Queensland Government’s $1 million facelift was a 2004 election commitment.

”Since the declaration of the Bribie Island Recreation Area in July 2005, the State Government has provided significant funds to upgrade facilities to meet the growing demand for nature-based recreation in the area, and to develop visitor opportunities,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“I am proud of the work by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers to formalise campsites in the Ocean Beach campground towards the north of the island, including the installation of environmentally friendly toilets.

“The development of a walking track to Fort Bribie and interpretive signs will give visitors a greater appreciation of the island’s World War II fortifications.”

Ms Nelson Carr said other service upgrades included improved entry access points, new orientation and visitor information at entry points, and new visitor brochures.

“Until now access on Bribie Island has mainly been along the ocean beach.

“Today’s opening of a forest drive through the centre of the island offers another experience for visitors.

“This drive takes people through previously cleared pine plantation but in the long run it will be a similar experience to drives on Fraser and Moreton Island.”

For more information and campsite bookings visit www.epa.qld.gov.au or phone 13 13 04 (24 hours).

Media contact:Karla Steen 3336 8004 or Andie Gatti 3336 8002