Published Thursday, 12 June, 2008 at 03:04 PM
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew McNamara
Millstream Falls celebrates 100 years of National Parks in Queensland
Far North Queenslanders can join in the fun and celebrate 100 years of national parks in Queensland at Millstream Falls on 21 June 2008.
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation, Andrew McNamara, said celebrations were being held throughout the State.
“Queensland’s first national park, Witches Falls, was gazetted on 28 March 1908.
“In light of this milestone, celebrations are being held to highlight the importance of conserving our natural and cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
“Millstream Falls was the first national park in North Queensland, it has a rich and varied past.”
Mr McNamara invited Director-General of the Environmental Protection Agency, Terry Wall, to attend the celebrations on his behalf.
“Mr Wall will officially open the heritage walking track,” he said.
“This project pays tribute to the many troops who trained in this national park during World War II.
“Some of them are travelling from all over Australia to be here for the occasion.
“It’s wonderful to be able to honour their role and celebrate this significant milestone for the National Parks in Queensland at the same time.”
Mr McNamara said the day would be filled with a range of activities, guided walks and displays supported by the 51st Battalion of the Australian Army, Traditional Owners, community groups and local organisations.
“World War II memorabilia and vehicles will be on site, and children can have their faces painted.
“Local geologist, David Johnson, is leading a walk and Alan Gillanders will lead two bird walks.
“There will be giveaways for everyone, and celebrations aren’t restricted to the ground.
"A World War II Harvard warbird will fly over the park to mark this momentous occasion,” Mr McNamara said.
“From the very young to the young at heart, there will be something for everyone, so bring the family along," he said.
The celebrations begin at 10am on 21 June 2008. Regular shuttle buses from the Ravenshoe Rail carpark, in the main street of Ravenshoe, will transport all visitors to and from the site.
For more information contact the EPA’s Tamara Vallance on 4091 8115 or tamara.vallance@epa.qld.gov.au.
Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation, Andrew McNamara, said celebrations were being held throughout the State.
“Queensland’s first national park, Witches Falls, was gazetted on 28 March 1908.
“In light of this milestone, celebrations are being held to highlight the importance of conserving our natural and cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
“Millstream Falls was the first national park in North Queensland, it has a rich and varied past.”
Mr McNamara invited Director-General of the Environmental Protection Agency, Terry Wall, to attend the celebrations on his behalf.
“Mr Wall will officially open the heritage walking track,” he said.
“This project pays tribute to the many troops who trained in this national park during World War II.
“Some of them are travelling from all over Australia to be here for the occasion.
“It’s wonderful to be able to honour their role and celebrate this significant milestone for the National Parks in Queensland at the same time.”
Mr McNamara said the day would be filled with a range of activities, guided walks and displays supported by the 51st Battalion of the Australian Army, Traditional Owners, community groups and local organisations.
“World War II memorabilia and vehicles will be on site, and children can have their faces painted.
“Local geologist, David Johnson, is leading a walk and Alan Gillanders will lead two bird walks.
“There will be giveaways for everyone, and celebrations aren’t restricted to the ground.
"A World War II Harvard warbird will fly over the park to mark this momentous occasion,” Mr McNamara said.
“From the very young to the young at heart, there will be something for everyone, so bring the family along," he said.
The celebrations begin at 10am on 21 June 2008. Regular shuttle buses from the Ravenshoe Rail carpark, in the main street of Ravenshoe, will transport all visitors to and from the site.
For more information contact the EPA’s Tamara Vallance on 4091 8115 or tamara.vallance@epa.qld.gov.au.
Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004