News
29 November, 2021
Heavy rainfall closes all plantation forests in SEQ
HQPlantations has closed all plantation forests from Byfield in Central Queensland to the NSW border to public access due to a substantial amount of rain falling in most areas over the past week, with more rainfall predicted.
This includes plantation forests in the vicinity of the Glasshouse Mountains, the Mary Valley and the Fraser Coast, which are all closed to the public.
Damage to the road network can be extensive when conditions are this wet. A period of sustained dry weather will be required before plantations roads can be traversed without causing further damage. The situation will be reassessed on Thursday 2 December 2021.
The status of the closure will be updated on HQPlantations website www.hqplantations.com.au/closures
HQPlantations is appealing to all recreation users to respect these closures so that safe and responsible access to the plantations can be restored as soon as possible.
Plantation forest closures fall under the Forestry Act 1959 and can be enforced by police, QPWS rangers and plantation officers. Fines for non-compliance currently range from $276 to almost $1,400.
People are reminded that driving through mud on plantations roads at any time is also unlawful and penalties apply.
State and local government-managed roads through plantations remain open unless otherwise indicated by road signage or police.
People are advised to refer to the Parks and Forests website www.parks.des.qld.gov.au for restrictions in relation to campgrounds managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service in this area.
Enquiries can be directed to information@hqplantations.com.au or the nearest HQPlantations office, phone numbers are available on the website or by calling Head Office on 3882 8240.
