By STEVE GRAY
MOST walking tracks in the region’s national parks have re-opened, thanks to the efforts of park rangers and volunteers.
Many of the tracks were damaged in wild weather that has ravaged southern Queensland in the past couple of years.
National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said 77 of the 87 walking tracks in Scenic Rim national parks were now open for hikers.
“Whether you’re an experienced bushwalker or a complete novice there are walking tracks to suit your pace and this is the perfect time of year to enjoy them,” Mr Dickson said.
Repairs have been completed at Girraween National Park following flooding in 2011 which caused serious erosion of the walking track surface and washed away information signs.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers and volunteers worked hard to restore the 15 kilometres of walking tracks within nine months after the floods at a cost of approximately $170,000.
The walking tracks at Sundown National Park were not significantly affected by the flood waters in 2011.
Two toilets and some parts of the access roads at Sundown were rebuilt by QPWS rangers within a few months after the floods at a cost of $15,000.
Sites suitable for caravans are not available at Girraween National Park due to the closure of Castle Rock Camping Area for an amenities upgrade.
Bald Rock Creek Camping Area will remain open during this period and provides sites suitable for camping trailers.
The latest park and safety information is available via the department’s Park Alert web pages (www.nprsr.qld.gov.au) and people should always check these alerts prior to leaving home.
