Fraser Island

Yes, there was a rumour circulating two weeks ago that the new minister, (our local member) was going to make an announcement. I had the local TV news calling me for a statement on the announcement (that hadn't been made yet...)

Some conflicting info - this is the Ministers statement (below)- still states it MAY close - see last paragraph

Before the big rains the inland track was actually ok - some locals were choosing to use it rather than Hook. Personally i would hate to see it close as I tow a boat to Orchid and the track would be a pain.

Wait till after the election and see where this goes

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew McNamara
28/09/2007


PRACTICAL RESPONSE TO HOOK POINT TRAFFIC
Lower speed limits for vehicles along two beach areas of southern Fraser Island are to be trialled.

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation, and Member for Hervey Bay, Andrew McNamara, said the lower limits would be implemented as soon as practicable.

He said the 40 kph limits would apply to two sections of beach; one around the bird roosting area at Hook Point and the second around the camping areas of Midyum and Dulara.

"Following the extremely heavy rains a few weeks ago substantial flood damage occurred to the Hook Point inland road," Mr McNamara said.

"The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has temporarily repaired the road, and will seek Natural Disaster Relief funds to fully repair it over the coming year.

"They have advised me that closure of the beach is not feasible at this stage, and have asked me to agree to the beach remaining open until such time as the road repairs can be permanently completed.

"While I have agreed with thi, I have asked them to implement measures to provide for improved visitor safety and also minimise the impact on the natural values at the North Spit and Hook Point area, in particular the migratory bird roosting areas."

The 40 kph speed limit will be trialled in two areas:
• for approximately 6km north from Semaphore Creek, including North Spit and new Garalin Camping Area, to help protect birds and campers; and
• for approximately 3km from just before the new Midyum Camping Area until just after Dulara Camping Area, to help protect campers.

Mr McNamara said additional measures will be investigated to ensure vehicles remain on the hard beach at the North Spit area, and not short cut across the Spit which is the main bird roosting area.

"These measures are a sensible mechanism to protect these areas, and I've directed they be implemented as soon as practicable," Mr McNamara said.

"Obviously, the necessary signage and regulatory tools will take a little tim to install, but I'm confident these measures will provide enhanced protection at these areas once complete.

"The long term goal in the Great Sandy Management Plan is still to close this section of beach, but that cannot occur until there is a safe and reliable road to service Island residents and visitors."

Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3336 8004

On the 14th of August I used the Inland road as the tide was still going out. This was prior to the big rains that came the following weeks.

I was disappointed that the ranger behind the counter at Eurong said the bitumen had been ripped up and the road recently graded. I would suggest the ranger had no idea what was going on as the road was very badly corrugated with potholed bitumen still evident in places. I say again - no idea!

I've driven right around this country, including the Cape, GRR, Bungle Bungles etc. This was one of the worst condition roads I have seen and downright dangerous.

I'd happily used the inland road if it was maintained a little better. It disappoints me to hear rangers state it is in one condition when it clearly is not. If local authorities do not realise there is a problem, what chance is there of getting it improved ?

"Following the extremely heavy rains a few weeks ago substantial flood damage occurred to the Hook Point inland road," Mr McNamara said.

This is going to happen regularly and can we guarantee that the track will be properly maintained? I think not! Lower speed limits! How many people 'fly' around hook point anyway, lowering the speed limit in this area should've been the obvious and ONLY choice!