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CORRESPONDENCE WITH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, QPWS
In late 2006 NPAQ Executive Coordinator wrote to the Executive Director, Parks Division, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) raising concerns expressed by NPAQ members on the condition of some Queensland National Parks. The content of this correspondence follows:
Executive Coordinator (Elizabeth Sayers)
“During the last few months many NPAQ members have reported on the poor state of various National Parks within Queensland that they have visited.
“Some parks in NSW were also visited and each of them received very positive comments. Sturt National Park, Dead Horse Gully Campground and Fort Grey Camping Ground were all reported as having facilities that were of an excellent standard.
“By contrast however, and disappointingly, several issues within various Parks in Queensland were identified and they are detailed below:
“Currawinya:
· Lack of adequate signage in camping area
· Toilets are remotely located (many people drove to access them)
· No rangers were present
· A lack of information about the ‘Save the Bilby’ project and a lack of information about Bilbies in general was available
“Diamantina:
· Facilities at Hunters Gorge/Gum waterhole comprised a single pit toilet of very poor standard.
· In contrast, the unattended Park headquarters seemed to have had a significant sum of money spent on them
· Should camping occur here given that the ablution facilities are above the flood level?
· The Warracoota Circuit Drive had ‘road closed’ signs at each entrance, however the occupants of one vehicle ignored the signs and drove the route successfully.
“Moorinya:
· The current ranger has been there for the last six years and given dedicated service to the park. He is now transferring to Charters Towers next month and will not be replaced. This would be an absolute disaster.
· Without a resident ranger this park will be open to abuse. Infrastructure such as 80 km of fencing, a compost toilet and heritage sheep shearing sheds and quarters could be damaged or vandalised. Poaching and binge parties could go on undetected.
· This park is preserving desert uplands with flat plains criss-crossed by watercourses, grasslands and open eucalypt, acacia and melaleuca woodlands. It has lots of wildlife, particularly a great variety of birds. It may not get visited as often as other parks, but its conservation value is priceless!
· The NPAQ member would not feel safe without a resident ranger and would be greatly saddened if all the devotion and good work given by the current ranger was in vain.
“Lawn Hill:
· In September, the area was overrun with wild pigs and cattle.
“As stated, it is disappointing to think that none of the Parks visited within Queensland received positive feedback. Our previous discussion with you on the state of National Parks indicated to the contrary, and you were of the opinion that the Parks within Queensland are in better condition than Kakadu, which you gave as an example. Given that the NPAQ members have made the above reports, we are concerned about the veracity of your statements.
“It is hoped that by letting you know of the poor reports we are receiving, you can take appropriate action to address and rectify such issues. We would be keen to hear your comments about this.
“Please contact me if you wish to further discuss any of these matters.”
Reply by Executive Director (Alan Feely)
“Firstly I would like to thank NPAQ for their recent letter to me regarding Queensland National Parks. I genuinely appreciate your interest and support for National Parks in Queensland.
“In response to the matters raised by NPAQ I would like to share some initial thoughts regarding the management of remote parks in Queensland: The cost of delivering services for any organisation in remote areas of Queensland is substantially higher than the coastal region. This is due to many factors including the availability of contractors, high transport costs, higher fuel costs, higher housing costs. “There is also a personal health and wellbeing cost for rangers and their families based in remote areas. QPWS has accepted these issues and has proactively looked at ways of enhancing its service delivery to ensure it is cost effective, and improve the retention, safety, and welfare of our rangers. Some of the changes to QPWS service delivery have included the consolidation of rangers into larger, more efficient work crews based in towns. It is important to note that this has not occurred in all areas, and any changes that have been made will be fully evaluated.
“Diamantina National Park
“Diamantina is a stunning national park covering a vast area in remote western Queensland. Since gazettal in 1996, QPWS rangers have actively focussed their attention on ensuring all natural resource management activities are carried out to a high standard. This has included the upgrade of boundary fences to ensure neighbouring stock remains excluded, and the control of pest animals and weeds. In particular, QPWS has invested over $300,000 (excluding labour) on these projects over the past two years with fantastic results. Whilst it is easy for me to state that this park is being managed well, the proof is demonstrated by the fact that a recent survey has shown that the Diamantina bilby population is expanding, both in population and in the area that it inhabits. Another heartening piece of evidence is the discovery of a critically endangered night parrot specimen, thought by many experts to be extinct, on Diamantina National Park late last year. The significance of this area has also recently been recognised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as one of the top 10 reserves of the decade.
Pictured is Claire from WWF presenting Environment Minister
Lindy Nelson-Carr with the award. Also pictured are Frank
Manthey and bilby. (Photo)
“Many visitors to western Queensland National Parks are drawn by the remoteness and isolation of the area, and are self-sufficient. They generally do not require, or want, the same level of facilities that QPWS supply in some of our high visitation parks. The facilities in remote campgrounds, such as Hunters Gorge at Diamantina National Park, consist of little more than a toilet and this is more than adequate for their needs. NPAQ has highlighted that this particular campground is below flood level. Like most western areas, the most popular campsites are next to water bodies; however QPWS has plans to move this campground to a more appropriate location over the next two years.
“The buildings at Diamantina were upgraded several years ago and are used not only by ranger staff, but also by volunteers, contractors and university students who undertake work and research projects in this region. Due to the sheer size of this park (more than 500 000 ha) staff often work away, leaving the homestead base temporarily unattended, which may have been the case during the recent visit by NPAQ members.
“Also during that visit, NPAQ members noticed that the Warracoota Circuit Drive had “road closed” signs at each entrance; they also observed the occupants of one vehicle ignore the signs and drive the route. I am concerned by this report of people ignoring road closure signs, which are put in place not only to assist with management activities but also to ensure the safety of visitors. Ranger staff regularly monitor the weather and liaise with local shires to determine the requirement for temporary road closure signs. Road closures also allow for the management of access tracks, for example when Warracoota Circuit Drive was graded in July 2006.
Diamantina National Park homestead complex. (Photo)
“Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park
“Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park is one of Queensland’s most scenic and remote National Parks, spanning more than 282 000 ha. Neighbouring Resources Reserves bring this area up to 330 000 ha. Situated within the north-west highlands, this area features spectacular gorge country, sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossils.
”As noted by NPAQ members, this area does experience periodic localised problems with pest animals species and neighbouring domestic stock. Maintaining secure boundaries to minimise impacts of domestic stock on parks like Boodjamulla is an ongoing challenge for QPWS. Over the next two financial years QPWS will commit $200,000 to establish boundary fencing in sensitive spring and riparian areas. A further $56,000 has been allocated over the last three years to assess feral animal populations and develop and implement effective control measures. After this financial year, QPWS will be in a good position to implement any further feral animal control measures in this park. This will add to our ongoing feral pig control program for Lawn Hill Gorge. “QPWS is also committed to a long term professional operation at Boodjamulla with $2M allocated over the next three years to renew management infrastructure. This will improve how our organisation is locally presented and managed, as well as providing a more suitable work environment for staff.
“Moorrinya National Park
“Moorrinya covers 32,600ha of grassy plains and open eucalypt and acacia woodlands in the Desert Uplands Bioregion and as mentioned by NPAQ, “its conservation value is priceless.” Since the dedication of this park as a protected area in 1993 ranger staff have undertaken an outstanding job in establishing the management systems and infrastructure for this park, including complete boundary fencing, effective fire and pest management programs, a management plan, and sound residence and office facilities, which continue to be used by staff on a periodic basis during scheduled visits to Moorrinya.
“Since November 2006 Moorrinya has been managed from the Charters Towers office. Despite the absence of a resident ranger at Moorrinya, there have been no reports of damage or vandalism to park infrastructure; though it is acknowledged that the peak visitation period is upcoming. Like any remote park, poaching, parties and other activities may occur undetected, with or without the presence of a resident ranger. Indeed the safety of our ranger staff is one of the reasons for consolidating certain ranger bases and despatching larger, safer roving gangs to undertake park management and maintenance activities. The health and wellbeing of rangers and their families are also very real considerations for QPWS in consolidating certain ranger bases, as was the case for Moorrinya. QPWS is confident that the Charters Towers Ranger crew, comprising six permanent rangers, is well skilled and equipped to provide adequate protection for Moorrinya and other protected areas in that region. The effectiveness of the decision to consolidate certain ranger bases will be fully evaluated.
“Currawinya National Park
“Currawinya offers unique visitor opportunities in a remote environment. Currawinya's lakes, rivers and wetlands contrast strikingly with the sandy plains and rocky ranges of semi-arid south-western Queensland. These wetlands are among the most important inland waterbird habitats in Australia. Two large lakes, separated by only a few kilometres of sand dunes, are the centrepiece of a fascinating mosaic of habitats across the park. Lake Numalla is freshwater, while the slightly larger Lake Wyara is saline.
“In the interest of protecting the integrity of the lakes’ edge and water quality, camping is not permitted at the lakes. However, camping is permitted at Caiwarro and Ten Mile Bore, where a pit toilet is also located. QPWS is considering options for future camping facilities at Currawinya; however any changes will need to carefully consider waste disposal technologies, environmental and cultural impacts and the existing plan of management, as well as visitor convenience. Currawinya’s remoteness, as well as the hot, dry environment and the susceptibility to flooding, make sustainable visitor facilities, such as toilets, a challenge.
“QPWS will be developing a signage plan for the park with the aim of improving orientation, interpretive and safety information for park visitors. The bilby information display at the woolshed is also being upgraded and will be relocated to the entrance of the ranger base (at the old homestead).
“While your members may not have spotted any rangers during their last visit, Currawinya has three permanent “on park” staff positions. The 005 ranger position is based at Caiwarro (approximately in the centre of the park, and 25 minutes drive from the Currawinya homestead area). This position services the northern section of the Park, has a residence (about 10 years old) and a vehicle. Two further ranger positions (004 and 003) are based at the old homestead. Unfortunately these positions have been vacant for a time as the previous incumbents were successful in applying for higher positions elsewhere; however the recruitment process to fill these positions is currently underway. The Service’s prospects of attracting a good field of candidates for these positions should be improved with recent enhancements to staff accommodation at Currawinya, including construction of a three bedroom ranger’s residence and single person’s quarters.
“Indeed, the actual or perceived shortfall in services provided by QPWS, particularly in the more remote parks of the State, highlights the opportunity for volunteers to supplement the efforts of our dedicated ranger staff. All offers of assistance would be warmly welcomed by QPWS.
“I would also like to confirm my thanks to NPAQ members and their feed-back regarding their recent visit to the abovementioned Queensland National Parks. QPWS is committed to improving the quality of its services and the experiences of visitors to our parks. And we would love to hear about your positive experiences too!
RUPERT MURDOCH GOES GREEN by Malcolm McKinnon
According The Australian newspaper of 10 May 2007 Rupert Murdoch the News Corporation chairman and chief executive pledges to make his organisation carbon-neutral by 2010. He wants to change the way people think about climate change.
He says that he is not a scientist, but he knows how to assess a risk. And it is clear to him that climate change poses clear, catastrophic threats and that we cannot afford the risk of inaction.
The media mogul recognises that the New Corporation’s position is a unique one. He is in a position to set an example and to weave the issue into content and inspire people to change their behaviour.
He sees action as a matter of public responsibility and realises that, in the process, his organisation will benefit.
Mr Murdoch said he had recently bought a hybrid car as part of a personal commitment to a cleaner environment and said News, which owns The Australian and The Courier-Mail, is looking at providing incentives for employees prepared to do the same.
Mr Murdoch estimates the carbon footprint of News Corporation at over 600 000 tonnes. His strategy is to reduce energy use as much as possible, then switch to renewable sources of power where it makes economic sense and finally, over time and as a last resort, offset the emissions that cannot be avoided.
He wants to revolutionise the message, to make the issue exciting and tell the story in a new way.
Can we look forward to a new editorial and opinion page policy in The Courier-Mail and The Australian?
FOURTEEN RECOMMENDATIONS OF SENATE COMMITTEE REPORT: Australia’s National Parks, conservation reserves and marine protected areas
Recommendation 1:
4.78: The committee recommends that in all future negotiations for the establishment of Marine Protected Areas, the oil and gas industry be part of the process so that all stakeholders are fully aware of the range of issues that impact upon the marine environment.
Recommendation 6:
7.27: The committee recommends that the Commonwealth, States and Territories boost the resilience of reserves against the effects of climate change by focusing on increasing their connectivity, so that they contain a continuum of different climate zones, altitudes and ecosystem types.
Recommendation 7:
9.48: The committee recommends that management plans clearly identify practical on-ground outcomes and that protected area agencies have in place comprehensive monitoring and evaluation programs to continually assess management effectiveness and the extent to which protected area values are being maintained.
Recommendation 8:
9.89: The committee recommends that best practice preparation and revision of reserve management plans should ensure that stakeholders, are consulted at the commencement of planning processes, rather than beginning with seeking comment on draft plans.
Recommendation 9:
9.113: The committee endorses the Gilligan Report findings and recommends that the Commonwealth substantially increases funding to the Indigenous Protected Areas Program and that funding for this Program also be provided by state and territory governments.
Recommendation 10:
10.19: The committee recommends that the Commonwealth Government examine ways to encourage State and Territory Governments and their relevant agencies to engage more fully in programs that provide opportunities for recreational groups and users to contribute in positive ways to the conservation and maintenance of park resources.
Recommendation 11:
10.20: The committee recommends that the Commonwealth Government examine ways to encourage State and Territory Governments and their
agencies to work collaboratively with recreational groups to identify further opportunities for activities such as horse riding, mountain biking and four wheel driving, where these activities will not unduly impact on the environment.
Recommendation 12:
11.48: The committee recommends that every jurisdiction implement, where appropriate, legislative or administrative reforms that ensure that conservation covenants are registered on the title of the land.
Recommendation 13:
11.67: The committee recommends that all governments, in consultation with the ATO and private conservation organisations, examine improved tax treatment for private initiatives that provide long-term, secure conservation benefits.
Recommendation 14:
12.34: The committee recommends that all states and territories publish comprehensive information in a nationally consistent form on funding levels for ongoing management of National Parks and reserves, including staffing resources, and that this information be published annually in the relevant annual reports.
Recommendation 15:
12.35: The committee recommends that all states and territories, at a minimum, maintain their budgets for National Parks and reserves in real terms to meet expansions in the reserve estate and operational requirements.
Recommendation 16:
12.102: The committee recommends that the Commonwealth review the funding formula under the NRS (National Reserve System) Program to take greater account of the on-going management costs borne by the states and territories.
Recommendation 17:
12.103: The committee recommends that in the upcoming NHT3 funding round the Commonwealth significantly increase the funding allocation directed to the NRS Program.
Recommendation 18:
12.118: The committee recommends that the Commonwealth consider substantially increased funding for World Heritage Areas.
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