Queensland Park and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has closed all the campgrounds in national parks, State forests and State-managed recreation and protected areas in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Announced by the Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leeanne Enoch, the decision was consistent with the expert medical advice of the Chief Health Officer.
“As the Easter school break approaches, closure of the campgrounds will help protect the health and safety of campers, the wider community as well as Queensland Park and Wildlife Service rangers and staff,” Ms Enoch said.
“The Premier has been very clear that Queenslanders should cancel their Easter break plans and stay close to home.”
She said the use of shared facilities in campgrounds was a significant health concern in the current circumstances.
“There are around 470 camping areas in Queensland’s parks and forests and QPWS rangers will immediately be contacting members of the public who are currently at camp sites, and those who have booked a site,” the Minister said.
“The closure of camping grounds does not include residential caravan parks.”
She said increased signage would be placed in high visitation areas throughout the State to keep the public informed of closures.
“The health of the community is our number one priority and minimising the spread of Coronavirus is imperative,” Ms Enoch said.
She said anyone who had booked a camp site for Easter would receive a refund.
