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Magazine of National Parks Association of Queensland
Shutdown:
A Break for Nature
PLUS
QPWS Rangers & Fire Management
The Next Fire
ALSO FEATURED
A Message from our Patron
Birthday Wishes from our Members Issue 28
Rangeland National Parks Winter 2020
1
Contents
FROM OUR PATRON
From our Patron����������������������������� 3 Rangeland National Parks.............. 12
Shutdown: A Break for Nature��������� 4 The National Park Experience ........ 13
Fire Management QPWS Rangers��� 6 Ranger of the Month ..................... 14
Words from our Members................ 8 From the President........................ 15
The Next Fire................................ 10 What’s On.................................... 15
Editor Advertising enquiries
Marika Strand. Please email admin@npaq.org.au or phone
(07) 3367 0878.
His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC
Governor of Queensland
Contributor guidelines Advertising policy
NPAQ invites contributions to Protected Advertisements are required to align with
articles. Please email admin@npaq.org.au for a relevant NPAQ policies. NPAQ reserves the
schedule of future editions. right to refuse any advertisement at any time. Message from the Governor of Queensland
Advertisement in Protected does not imply
Contributors, please include contact details NPAQ’s endorsement of products or services. Ninety years ago, Queensland’s ideals and persistent effort of Romeo
and brief personal summary. Articles can be fourteenth Governor, Sir John Lahey, Arthur Groom and the many
submitted via email or hard copy. Digital photos Copyright and disclaimer Goodwin, accepted the invitation other passionate and dedicated
should be minimum 300dpi.
NPAQ retains copyright of Protected. Articles from the National Parks Association of volunteers and donors who have
Cover image may be quoted provided that appropriate
acknowledgement occurs in the reproduction
Queensland to become its inaugural contributed to the impressive list of
Curtain Fig National Park. Photo: David Clode. Patron. As the current Governor, I have achievements since 1930.
and use of material. been very pleased to continue the
I congratulate the Association on
Articles in Protected do not necessarily reflect tradition of vice-regal patronage of this
reaching this milestone year and thank
NPAQ’s opinion or position. great Queensland organisation.
them for the immense contribution
Sir John’s support was far from token their efforts have made to the life of all
About NPAQ endorsement; he and Lady Goodwin
were fully committed to the cardinal
Queenslanders.
Kaye and I share your disappointment
Our Purpose principle espoused by the Association,
that the planned program of
The National Parks Association of Queensland and led by example in having the
(NPAQ) promotes the preservation, expansion, Government House estate declared celebrations has not been able to
good management and presentation of National a Sanctuary and creating ‘Woodland proceed because of COVID-19
Parks, and supports nature conservation in Walks’ complete with paths and foot- restrictions. However, the work of the
Queensland. Association has continued unabated
bridges.
and we, like all Queenslanders, are
Council Staff Today, Kaye and I are the proud
looking forward to returning to the
President Graeme Bartrim Conservation Principal Laura Hahn custodians of this rare remnant of
remarkable places of peace, inspiration
Vice President Yvonne Parsons Operations Manager Marika Strand original, inner-city bushland and,
and renewal that the Association has Above: His Excellency the Honourable Paul de
Hon Treasurer Neil Williams in line with that same principle, are
helped create and protect for us all. Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland, Patron
Hon Secretary Jacqueline Rose’Meyer Contact details committed to ensuring responsible of National Parks Association of Queensland.
Asst Hon Secretary Debra Marwedel Office Unit 9/36 Finchley St, Milton QLD care and sustainable preservation. His Excellency the Honourable Paul Below: Some of the grounds at Government
Councillors David Ball Post PO Box 1040, Milton QLD 4064 As supporters of the Association, we de Jersey AC House. Photos: Supplied.
Suzanne Cooper Phone (07) 3367 0878 acknowledge the vigilance, advocacy, Governor of Queensland
Julie Hainsworth Web www.npaq.org.au
Email admin@npaq.org.au
Andrew Thompson
Colleen Thornton ABN 60 206 792 095
Want to get involved with NPAQ?
NPAQ welcomes people from all walks of life and offers a variety of ways to be involved:
• Have fun in the bush – come • Step up – become a National • Connect with us – Facebook,
along on a bush walk or Parks Conservation member Instagram and Twitter
other activity or a National Parks Protector • Stay in touch – read regular
• Get your hands dirty – • Donate – support our work updates on our website
participate in on-ground • Volunteer on exciting projects • Share a bush adventure with
conservation efforts • Subscribe to Protected and children – download NPAQ’s
• Join us – become a member Neck of the Woods via email Kids in National Parks guide
SUPPORT NPAQ AND HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE
BECOME A MEMBER, DONATE OR VOLUNTEER
www.npaq.org.au/get-involved www.facebook.com/NPAQld @nationalparksassocqld www.npaq.org.au
2 Connect and Protect 3
SHUTDOWN:
A Break for Nature
Susanne Cooper
Councillor, National Parks Association of Queensland (NPAQ)
Queenslanders have long enjoyed and resources, which are the key halt in foot traffic along tracks gave park closures. Dingoes have moved to focus on fire hazard, weed, pest by the overall quiet and lack of
exploring our many and varied national reason for their gazettal. Rangers in the opportunity for regeneration, inland away from these areas; typically management and track maintenance. disturbance. NPAQ hopes visitors
parks and state forests. Australians some national parks have been able particularly in areas where people they would be closer looking for food will take the opportunity to explore
Because of this opportunity, when
from other states typically migrate to spend time on critical feral pest go off-track to take a short-cut. This and scraps left behind by visitors, and appreciate our diverse national
you return to visit a national park,
to Queensland during the winter and weed management, particularly frequently occurs on tracks that have but instead have been forced to self- parks as part of a safe, inexpensive
you are likely to notice increased bird
months and popularity has surged where there have been devastating switch-backs designed to give an sufficiency. holiday, demonstrating how these
life and sightings of native fauna.
in the last decade. However, many fires. With the rains following fire and easier walking grade. special, unique areas are valued. This
This breather from visitors allows Many rangers have noted their return
had their trips cut short or cancelled drought, there has been an explosion Areas around campgrounds typically also builds the case for increased
ecosystems to recover, and rangers to highly used areas, encouraged
from March in response to the of weeds in many regions including have highly compacted soils. Again, resourcing of park management.
COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of South East Queensland and Western removal of visitor traffic gave a chance In response to the collapse of
the decision to close national parks Downs. Whilst the national parks in for regeneration, especially for native tourism, the Queensland Government
and their camping grounds to visitors these areas have come alive following grasses around camp areas which has waived commercial operators’
is significant, with 470 camping areas the recent wet season and have never flourish in less compacted conditions. park fees to help with the industry’s
closed across the state. looked greener, the parks services The absence of campers also gave recovery. Yet, national parks need
Whilst this has had profound effects will struggle to control weeds as this rangers the opportunity to remove every dollar they can get. At the time
on park explorers, there have been will require resourcing that is already dangerous tree-hazards in the of writing, Queensland national parks
many positives for national parks. in short supply. Rangers are also vicinity. Camping sites have had the will be open from 12th June, including
Despite chronic under-resourcing, the focused on fire hazard reductions with opportunity for natural processes to campgrounds, walking trails and
pause in visitation gave Queensland cool burns and assessing Indigenous help compost septic waste. Some swimming holes according to the
park rangers some much needed burning regimes. day-use areas can be rotated, government’s website: https://www.
breathing space to re-assess The extended drought and allowing the more heavily-used sites covid19.qld.gov.au/government-
management priorities. It freed up devastating fires have also taken a toll to be temporarily closed to allow for actions/roadmap-to-easing-
rangers from focusing mainly on on walking tracks which have been recovery and regeneration. queenslands-restrictions.
visitor management issues; instead, blocked with fallen trees and eroded, Fauna is also affected. The quiet When camping re-opens NPAQ
they had an opportunity to focus and in some parks washed away atmosphere around parks coupled requests all campers do the right thing
efforts on the parks’ significant values from intense rainfall. The temporary with regeneration has resulted in a and book campsites (on line https://
noticeable increase in sightings by parks.des.qld.gov.au/experiences/
rangers of fauna – from a diverse camping/camping_bookings.html
range of bird species to pademelons or by phone 13 74 68). If you can,
and koalas. And the closure of spending a little extra cash in the
high-use areas has allowed some regions can also to help country
ecosystems in these iconic sites to towns recover faster.
recover. Are you keen to foster a love
Four-wheel driving on park beaches of national parks in your kids or
has also been restricted giving wildlife grandkids? NPAQ’s Kids in National
and tracks a much needed break. Parks brochures are a great place
And K’gari (Fraser Island), part of to start www.npaq.org.au/kids-
Great Sandy National Park, had a in-national-parks/. And NPAQ is
break from the 10,000 to 14,000 seeking new members – please
people who normally visit the island join www.npaq.org.au/support-us/
over the Easter period. Interestingly, become-a-member/.
dingo sightings have decreased
markedly along the coastal areas
Above: Dingo on K'gari (Fraser Island). Photo: Karlel. Banner: Sunset on caravan. Photo: Rene frequented by large numbers of
Rauschenberger. campers and day-visitors prior to the Above: Queenslanders have looked forward to the return of camping. Photo: Peter Thomas.
4 5
FIRE MANAGEMENT
A TOP PRIORITY FOR
QPWS RANGERS
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS)
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Team to deliver important hazard 8,000 bushfire incidents ravaged to maintain the unique biodiversity
Service (QPWS) manages more than mitigation and cultural burns that Queensland. Approximately 133 found within Queensland's parks and
13 million hectares of parks and would normally have proved difficult bushfires—less than 2% of all forests. It helps regenerate many
forests (around 7.5% of Queensland), to conduct during the peak Easter bushfires in Queensland—started on plant species, restore and maintain
making it the largest land manager in school holiday period. QPWS parks and forests. Of those, ecosystems and can assist with pest
the state. 76% were contained on QPWS estate management and control. The flush
With the recovery from last year's
despite the severe conditions. of nutrients left post-fire, along with
Maintaining the diverse natural, bushfires still underway, the need to
sunlight and rain, make a perfect bed
cultural, social and economic values prepare for the upcoming bushfire Following the 2019-20 bushfire
for seeds to germinate and perennial
of parks and forests stretching the season is very much top of mind for season, rangers have been
grasses to respond, providing food
length and breadth of the state QPWS' hard-working rangers. undertaking post-fire evaluations
for wildlife. The protection of logs and
requires a year-round effort from 2019–20 bushfire season across the state including fire severity
habitat trees through low intensity
QPWS' team of more than 800 and extent mapping, and threatened Above left: QPWS rangers monitoring the Noosa National Park planned burn. Above right: Aerial
In preparation for the 2019 bushfire planned burns provide shelter and a
rangers. species and ecosystem impact vision of Burrum National Park planned burn. Photos: Queensland Government. Banner: Aerial
season, QPWS conducted safe place for wildlife to breed. vision of Noosa National Park. Photo: Surfshots Noosa Photography.
assessments. This work will help
While the recent restrictions from planned burns over more than one prioritise recovery programs and The conservation and cultural values
the COVID-19 pandemic saw some million hectares—the largest area activities, and inform future planning of each park and forest is unique, can be undertaken any time of year, facilities and shopping precincts.
national parks across the state covered for the past six years. and management. requiring rangers to tailor their fire depending on the purpose of the In this instance, rangers aim for
closed to visitors, it has provided Severe fire weather, above-average management and mitigation activities. burn and provided the conditions are weather conditions that will assist
temperatures, strong winds and low A collaborative approach right. with dissipating the smoke and
QPWS rangers with some welcome The Burrum Coast National Park,
opportunities to undertake additional humidity on the back of an extended Fire management requires a In most cases, it can take many use a variety of tactics and lighting
south-east of Bundaberg, has a
maintenance works and planned period of drought created challenging collaborative approach and QPWS months (and in some instances, techniques to carefully manage the
number of Cypress trees which are
burns. On Naree Budjong Djara conditions throughout the 2019–20 works throughout the year with local years) of planning and coordination burn to reduce disruption and smoke
culturally significant and have been
National Park on Minjerribah (North bushfire season. communities, neighbours and other between QPWS and other agencies effects for the local community.
used by First Nations People for their
Stradbroke Island), QPWS rangers Queensland Government agencies before a planned burn can be Looking ahead
Between September 2019 and the medicinal properties for thousands
including the Queensland Fire and implemented, especially where
worked with the Quandamooka Fire end of January 2020, more than of generations. To minimise the risk Ahead of the upcoming 2020
Emergency Services (QFES). QPWS residential areas adjoin national parks
of damage to these and other scar bushfire season, QPWS' planned
also has strong partnerships with First trees from a bushfire event, QPWS and forests.
Nations Peoples, who have used fire burn program commenced in north
rangers and the Butchulla Land and Prior to the 2019–20 bushfire season, Queensland in January and has
for thousands of generations to help Sea Rangers use traditional burning
manage landscapes, and to connect rangers teamed up with QFES to continued to expand state-wide.
practices to create a protection zone conduct a joint agency planned burn The planned burn season generally
to and care for Country. around the trees. Spot burning starts in the busy Noosa Junction area extends through Autumn into Winter
In the jointly managed Rinyirru from the base of the large trees and which adjoins the Noosa National and during this time, QPWS' efforts
(Lakefield) National Park in Cape continues outward in concentric Park on the Sunshine Coast. Every align with risk mitigation activities
York, QPWS rangers and the Rinyirru rings. This technique creates a lower planned burn is different, so while undertaken by QFES as part of their
Traditional Owners use a combination intensity burn that helps protect the this burn area was small at only 53 annual Operation Cool Burn. At the
of contemporary and traditional fire natural ecosystem by giving insects hectares, often it is the smaller burns end of April, rangers had already
management practices for planned and other slow moving fauna more that tend to be the most complex, completed more than 130 burns—
burns. Traditional fire sticks are used opportunity to climb, burrow or move both in planning and execution due double the burns undertaken for the
to light up small areas of ground and away. to their proximity to neighbouring same period last year—showing just
incendiaries dropped from an aircraft Planned burning to reduce fuel loads communities. how valuable their skills and expertise
to help create a mosaic pattern of is one method rangers use to mitigate are in reducing fuel loads to protect
In highly urbanised areas like
burnt and unburnt areas across the against the risk of damaging bushfires people, property and the environment
Noosa Junction, rangers are always
544,000 hectare protected area. in parks and forests later in the from the potentially devastating
mindful of the impacts of smoke
Fire for conservation and year. They are generally completed on the surrounding area and key impacts of bushfires.
protection during the cooler months when community assets such as nearby
Above: A QPWS ranger applying fire for a planned burn in Crows Nest National Park.
conditions tend to be milder, but schools, sporting grounds, aged care
Photo: Queensland Government. Fire plays an important role in helping
6 7
WORDS FROM OUR MEMBERS,
ON NPAQ'S 90TH ANNIVERSARY
National Parks and the Pursuit of responsibilities for some of the Having lived in Cairns for 41 years saw me come out with a light wallet NPAQ was very active with monthly in activities until retirement. When
a Dream largest and finest National Parks in I have been no more able to and cumbersome, heavy packages. meetings, well attended monthly assisting with the archiving I
Peter Stanton, NPAQ member since Queensland I decided that I would have active involvement with the Needless to say, everything but the weekend camps, social weekends, enjoyed reading the documented
1964 join the National Parks Association. Association than I ever was. I remain proverbial kitchen sink was fitted into and extended outings within Australia highlights of all outings. Never to
Although far removed from its activities a member, however, and continue my small sedan for that first foray into and overseas. Educational seminars be forgotten is the commitment of
My childhood was full with the I was inspired by its philosophies and to share its goals and philosophies. I the unknown world of camping. were held occasionally; for example, members to the Association. Who
freedom and delights of the wild the writings of some of those most wish it well, in this, its 90th year. I attended one on how to navigate could forget Keith Jarrett, Secretary
Many years later, when assisting
and beautiful places of south-east prominent within it. by compass. Seminars established in a voluntary capacity for many,
with the archiving of the Ruth Reid
Queensland. Approaching 80 years to review the aims, purpose and many years. Likewise, presidents,
My interest in National Parks came Reflections on Membership of Historical Collection I was amused to
later those memories can still fill my objectives of the Association were secretaries, treasurers, leaders and
to the attention of the Secretary of National Parks Association of read some of the exploits of Douglas
heart with joy, but also the poignancy well attended. The Bardon Education organizers of outings, mentioning
the Department, Bill Wilkes, and Queensland Jolly. One Friday afternoon on his
of sadness for the loss of so much Centre was a popular choice of venue. just a few positions. Submissions
the officer-in-charge of the fledgling way home from work in the city, Doug
beauty as the infrastructure of Lorna Williams, NPAQ member Many members devoted their holidays to governments are prepared in
National Parks Section of that met a fellow NPAQ member weighted
development sullies so much of since 1965 to lead extended outings. Preparations an honorary capacity. An Honour
Department, Syd Curtis. In September with camping gear. If my memory
the earth of this beautiful part of for the outings took up an enormous Board presented by Shirley Simpson
1967 I began work with that section The decision was made; I would serves me correctly, travel to camp
Queensland. amount of time, organisation and acknowledges Past Presidents to
in Brisbane as its second professional nominate to attend a weekend camp. was by train then truck. On learning
When I remember childhood that the member was attending an collaboration; later, leaders wrote the Association and is a permanent
officer appointment. For over 30 years My nomination being accepted, I
paradise now it returns to only one NPAQ weekend camp Doug raced to extensive reports of the events. reminder of the commitment of
from that point I avoided any active was in it ‘boots and all’. Having been
theme, Lamington National Park the nearby chemist, purchased tooth many to the pursuit of the aims and
involvement with the organisation until a member of the National Parks The purpose of NPAQ is to promote
and the excitement of many school brush and paste, went to another purpose of the Association. Volunteers
my days with the Forestry Department, Association of Queensland (NPAQ) the preservation, expansion, good
holidays at Binna Burra and O’Reillys store, purchased food, and away he of NPAQ were acknowledged
and later the National Parks and since mid-1965, approximately twelve management and presentation
Guest House. It was there, in 1948, at went in company of the member to in 2018 through an invitation for
Wildlife Service, were finished, as months, I knew commitment meant of National Parks, and supports
the age of eight that I first met those enjoy the weekend. So much for all two representatives to attend the
often being called upon to investigate being fully engaged. Never having nature conservation in Queensland.
the trappings thought necessary for Clem and Sylvia Jones Thank you
inspiring National Park advocates of proposals that came to Government known the trials and tribulations of Opportunities are provided for the
my first foray. Celebration Luncheon that year.
Bernard O’Reilly, Arthur Groom, and from the Association, I wished to avoid camping my apprehensiveness about membership to experience the
Romeo Lahey, and first became aware any perception of conflict of interest. the forthcoming experience was Prior to that first camping experience natural environment. What better way Although workplace commitments
of the National Parks Association and rather high. Of course, there was the I was contacted by Merle Wagner and social changes over the
Since leaving Government I have not could be found for gathering support
its work. purchase of necessary equipment to advising me that she was to be my past decade have contributed to
ceased to work in the Conservation than to familiarise the membership
be undertaken beforehand. buddy. Merle invited me, along with a reduction in the membership
In 1964, when, based in Mackay, area. I have, among other things, for with the natural landscapes and
some of her NPAQ friends one of over recent years, National Parks
I was working for the Forestry the last 17 years, been working for A visit to Paddy Palin’s store in ecosystems. Many National Parks
whom was Barbara Williams, to dinner Association Queensland will continue
Department, with management the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley in Queensland have been Gazetted
one evening. It was a very happy to be a strong force in pressing
as a result of pressure from NPAQ
occasion where I was introduced into governments to maintain, preserve
through submissions and support from
the rudiments of bush camping, an and expand national parks in this
members.
adjunct to the booklet received when State.
Following environmental catastrophes
my application for membership was
such as cyclones and floods,
accepted. I’ll never forget Merle’s
members assisted in clearing bush
kindness. True to her word, Merle
tracks and camp sites thus enabling
kept an unobtrusive ‘eye’ on me. My
the public to visit once again and
enthusiasm for NPAQ and camping
appreciate the Australian landscape.
grew out of the experiences gained
Members continue to assist in the
on that occasion. Unfortunately, the
maintenance of tracks and the
buddy system for new members
waned. For me, it was a profound reduction of weeds in various national
help in becoming acquainted with the parks in Queensland.
Above left: 'Lonely rangers hut' taken by a 12-year-old Stanton in 1952 on a box brownie camera in Lamington National Park. Above right: Stanton values of the Association and with Being a shift worker, I was unable to Above: Lorna Williams (right) at the Clem Jones
on his honeymoon in 1967 at Binna Burra Lodge. Photos: Peter Stanton. Banner: Carnarvon. Photo: NPAQ Archives. bush camping. attend many meetings or participate Luncheon in 2018. Photo: NPAQ Archives.
8 9
THE NEXT FIRE
Phil Ingamells
Parks Protection Campaigner, Victorian National Parks Association (VPNA)
Can we control fire with fire? Will This ‘long-since-fire’ low fuel scenario reduce fuel to any truly ‘safe’ level with as a surrogate for human life. Why approved shelters. They should, at about establishing a far greater level
more fuel reduction burning really is likely to be the explanation for many planned burns, it somehow remains anyone would need such a weak least, be compulsory for any new of control than we currently have.
save us and the bush we love? of the more open woodlands recorded the chief fire management tool in the proxy for such a critical and clear building in a high fire-prone area. There are other ways to help control
It's time for a new approach, not by early European ‘explorers’. public’s mind, and also in the minds of objective is a mystery; it’s possible ignitions, such as burying power
These are among a few very
failed remedies, says VNPA's Phil Frequently repeated Indigenous many fire managers and politicians. to save buildings but lose lives, and lines, a recommendation of the Royal
employable strategies that can
Ingamells. burning may well have contributed possible to lose buildings while saving Commission and later rejected by our
If we step back and look at things effectively contribute to safety.
We learnt as children that fire is a some of that open country, but not lives. state government, or encouraging
across the broad landscape. afresh, there are far more useful things But there is one seriously big
good friend and a bad master. If we dump the surrogate, more local power generation (which is also
we can do. investment that might radically change
And we’ve managed to tame fire Our understanding of how much effective life-saving options come into good for the climate). And better
Protecting life fire management in the state.
in so many ways in our daily lives. this is true in different ecosystems, the picture. strategies to control arson could also
and under different burn and climate The over-riding priority for fire Rapid attack capability help.
But the relationship between fire, the Compulsory evacuation
Australian bush, and the people who scenarios, would be very strong if fire management is the protection of Fires ravaged Tasmania in 2016, Investing seriously in ignition control
managers systematically recorded While Victoria belatedly came burning the previously unburnable
live there is increasingly a fraught one. human life. could have many benefits, increasing:
the change in fuel levels in the years close to compulsory evacuation in high tablelands and incinerating
Fire is undoubtedly master whenever Unfortunately Forest Fire Victoria, this summer’s fires, we still lack the • public safety
following fuel reduction burns. But Pencil Pines that had been unburnt
the weather suits it, and the weather in its planning, actually use buildings necessary legal clout to achieve
that simple monitoring program hasn’t for a thousand or more years. But • public health
will be suiting fire more and more in it. Fire managers should have the
been happening. the Tasmanian government was • protection of infrastructure
the years ahead. authority to evacuate homes, hospitals
It would be a serious enough poorly equipped to handle fire in
For many decades now the prime and even whole towns if necessary, these remote areas, and had to rely • protection for agriculture
omission in monitoring if this was only and all regions should have well-
tool for fire management has been on aircraft coming across Bass Strait • protection for tourism
reducing the abundance of understory an issue of public safety, but it’s also developed evacuation strategies in
an issue of protecting something like from Victoria. They arrived far too late
fuel, our shrubs and grasses, through advance of any fire season. • viability for insurance companies
100,000 native species. The fuel that to avoid disaster.
planned burning and other means. It In the USA and Canada, compulsory • reduced carbon emissions
does seem to make sense – burning threatens us is, at the same time, our Around Melbourne however, faced
invaluable, ancient, natural heritage. evacuation is well established. In with the prospect of catastrophic loss • And … long-term benefits for
or clearing the fuel before a bushfire 2006, the 88,000 citizens of the
does – if you can actually do it. of life in the Dandenongs, Warrandyte biodiversity
Independent published research, Canadian town of Fort Murray were
however, such as that performed or the Mornington Peninsula, we now That has to look like a good return
But in most ecosystems there is evacuated in the face of a several have the capacity to get three aircraft
observed, as well as recorded and recently in the Australian Alps National hundred-kilometre fire front. The town on such a solid investment.
Parks, makes this process clear (see to an ignition point within 10–15
published, evidence that while a was lost, but everyone lived. If we reduce the frequency of severe
diagram this page). minutes of notification of a fire.
planned burn can reduce understory fire, we should be able to decrease
Private bushfire bunkers Our aerial attack capacity has
fuel for a year or three, in many or How effective has fuel reduction impacts on both lives, infrastructure
most ecosystems the post-fire growth been? The Victorian Bushfires Royal increased steadily since 2009’s and the environment. And in the long-
of shrubs produces a significant Immediately after a fire, understory flammable Commission found that half of the Black Saturday fires, but rolling out a term, though this might be difficult
Over the last decade, Victoria’s shrubs etc are largely gone (year zero here), people who relied on private bunkers truly effective aerial point of ignition
increase in flammable shrubs over the under climate change, we could
annual Fuel Management reports so any new fire is unlikely to generate enough
during the Black Saturday fires capacity across Victoria would be
next decade or more. flame height to reach the canopy. However potentially decrease the flammability of
estimated a possible reduction in risk survived, but half tragically perished expensive, possibly a billion dollars or
Let’s be clear about that. Fuel the shrub layer quickly regenerates after a much of the landscape.
to life and property of up to 20 per fire, soon greatly increasing the possibility of a in them. The Commission put out more. However Black Saturday cost
reduction burns can reduce the cent maximum. But that would only be canopy fire developing. In long-unburnt forests, Fuel reduction will always have
an urgent interim report asking for Victoria over $4 billion, and 173 lives,
understory a lot for one year, and a if all planned fuel reduction programs the flammable shrubs die off, reducing the a place in managing bushfires,
an approved Australian standard and this summer’s fires have been
bit for the next few years, but then could be safely implemented. likelihood of a canopy fire.
design for private shelters, and that more expensive. especially when it is performed
they can actually increase the shrubby LDOW = Low, dry open woodland
That’s helpful but not much comfort, standard was published before the strategically close to assets in need of
understory for many years. Eventually, DOF = Dry open forest This is a highly technological
particularly when we know that in Commission’s final report. protection.
over time (and this period varies), SWF = subalpine forest and woodland solution, but in the face of climate
those shrubs gradually die off, and the acute fire weather fuel-reduced areas OF = Open forest However, this critical information change, it may be the only effective But increasing management burns
understory becomes relatively low in actually do little to lessen the extent or TWF = Tall wet forest has never been communicated to way to seriously reduce the rate across the landscape won’t be the
fuel. Without more fire, it can stay that severity of fire. Victorians, and there has been no of fire in the landscape. We won’t panacea many are claiming, even if it
Source: Zylstra, PJ. Flammability dynamics in
way for many years. And though we’ve never managed to the Australian Alps. Austral Ecology 2018. support for people wanting to install stop every fire, but we should set were possible to achieve the task.
10 11
QUEENSLAND'S THE NATIONAL PARK
RANGELAND EXPERIENCE
NATIONAL PARKS Personal reflection on why our parks must be valued
Paul Sattler, OAM Colleen Thornton
Councillor, National Parks Association of Queensland (NPAQ)
On NPAQ’s 90th birthday, we system. Over this five year period, Unfortunately, landholder concerns A deep breath, a calming moment of protesting developments that disturb family home, it was like a bomb had
celebrate its many successes in approximately $40m was spent still remain over securing new parks peace, the crisp fresh feeling of clean flora, fauna or the native peoples. gone off, things everywhere, but boy
securing Queensland’s magnificent acquiring 2,437,892 hectares. and over park management in pastoral air - The most memorable slogan that was the garden always spectacular.
national parks. During this time the NPAQ not only regions. These concerns can be This is the experience that makes comes to mind is, “Keep your cotton-
In 2014, they both passed away,
However, the development of a supported these acquisitions, but partially overcome by investment in me fall in love with parks every time – picking hands off Coopers Creek”, a
a mere 10 days apart. Mum’s life in
representative national park estate financially supported the publication nature-based outback tourism as the connection with peace, the lack unique alliance of scientists, graziers
and environmentalists, protesting the the sun saw her grow melanomas
across all bioregions has stalled in of The Conservation Status of economic diversification is desperately of noise and the disappearance of
large scale irrigation of the Coopers that metastasised to her brain and
recent years. Disturbingly, this is at a Queensland’s Bioregional Ecosystems. needed to assist distressed local anxiety or stress.
Creek flood plains in the mid 1990s. Dad had Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
time of unprecedented pressure on This work provided the basis for communities and to build broad
I met with Deb, Yvonne and Graeme Mum wasn’t a scientist or grazier but To cope with my grief, I would go for
our natural environment. The semi- describing regional ecosystems and societal support for completing a
in early 2019 with a hope that as she was fiercely protective and she early morning walks, weekend walks, I
arid and arid rangelands west of the securing representativeness across representative rangeland park system. the Secretary, Vice President and understood that the great outdoors would go outside to my comfort zone
Great Dividing Range (excluding the each bioregion, and underpins natural Coordinating park acquisitions with President, these important people
other environmental initiatives across needed protecting from profit. My six- and even attempt balcony gardening.
tropical savannahs) suffer in many resource management today. After 28 would see a person with a useful skill
years these ecosystems have now the rangelands also need to be further year-old mind kept hold of that slogan When the grief had passed and my
parts from unsustainable grazing set in marketing, authenticity and a
been mapped for the whole state: a explored. and strong conviction, even if I didn’t life had settled into a solid career, the
pressure exacerbated by the legacy of willingness to join a great cause and truly understand what irrigation was,
degradation over more than a century. monumental task by the Queensland Paul was directly involved in the give back. I had answers to all their time was right to think about giving
I knew the animals and land wouldn’t
This pressure is now magnified by Herbarium. Securing many of these expansion of Queensland’s National questions rehearsed and ready, then back and as fate would have it, NPAQ
be happy!
a warming and increasingly variable parks was indeed hard-won but by Parks over three decades and when they asked, “what do National advertised a vacancy for a volunteer
climate. Equally, these threats demonstrating that a scientific basis Parks mean to you?”, my rehearsed We eventually moved to Toowoomba, council member.
guided the acquisition of many
represent an unsustainable pressure was being used in park selection answer went out the door and the the garden city, where Mum would
of our rangeland parks. He also I volunteer as a council member
on biodiversity. helped secure rural support. honesty came out. always point out when someone in the
coordinated the development of with NPAQ because nature and the
neighbourhood cut down another tree.
In the halcyon days of park Today however, a fully representative Queensland’s Regional Ecosystem National Parks, nature, the great great outdoors are something that
Living outside was our routine, from
expansion from 1989 to 1994, national park system across the classification. A detailed history of outdoors, were so incredibly important was important to my parents, it’s
gardening, to bushwalks and camping,
government policy was to double rangelands remains far from complete. this work is available in: Five Million to my mother and father. Dad, I found boats and the open ocean, even something that they taught me to see
the national park estate, and there Major gaps exist in the Brigalow Belt, Hectares - a conservation memoir out had apprenticed in the Pechey nibbles with the neighbours under as important, cherish, connect with
was a deliberate effort to focus on Einasleigh Uplands, Desert Uplands, 1972-2008 which is available on Forestry in high school making the the giant poinciana. To walk in to our and seek to protect.
developing a representative park Mulga Lands, Mitchell Grass Downs line (www.npaq.org.au/publications/ commute from Dalby in the 70s before
system across the rangelands. At this and Channel Country. With the reading-of-interest/). Paul retains finally deciding to pursue a career as
time there were very few parks west increasing severity of threatening a keen interest in the rangelands: a police officer. Mum was an avid girl
of the Divide, except for the ‘scenic processes, it is urgent that our national their need for sustainable guide in New Zealand who claimed
lands’ like Carnarvon National Park or park estate is expanded across our management and to consolidate the to have learned survival skills from Sir
the ‘worthless lands’ (from a pastoral rangelands to protect and restore park system. Edmund (still unverified, she also had
viewpoint) such as Munga-Thirri biodiversity and ecosystem services. a “shark bite” that was suspiciously
(Simpson Desert) National Park. A range of conservation measures like a knee reconstruction). They met
The subsequent development is also required to complement new in central Queensland as the resident
towards a representative national national parks for the protection of police officer and nurse albeit one in
park system included new parks in rare and threatened species and Birdsville, the other in Bedourie. In
the Mulga Lands (e.g. Welford N.P.), ecosystems, refugia, and corridors as the ensuing years, along came their
the Channel Country (e.g. Diamantina part of achieving sustainably managed four children and around regional
N.P.), the Darling-Riverine Plain landscapes. Of particular note is the Queensland we moved.
(Culgoa Floodplains N.P.), the Mitchell need for protection of our rangeland Mum was a louder voice in the
Grass Downs (e.g. Astrebla Downs wetlands both in parks and on private community, Dad her rock of support
Above: Riversleigh World Heritage Site,
N.P.), and the North West Highlands lands. Many contain rare, endemic (even if she would lovingly yell “Tree
Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park. Photo:
(e.g. extension of Boodjamulla (Lawn species whilst others represent key James Fitzgerald. Banner: Munga-Thirri Murderer” any time he so much as
Hill) N.P.). These are some of the habitat for wide ranging, migratory (Simpson Desert) National Park. Photo: trimmed a branch on a tree). She was
jewels in Queensland’s national park species. Tandrew22. often advocating for rural health and Above: The author enjoying nature. Photos: Supplied.
12 13
RANGER FROM THE PRESIDENT
SPOTLIGHT
Insights into the diverse backgrounds and day-to-day
activities of Queensland’s park rangers
Don Rowland Graeme Bartrim
Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service (QPWS) President, National Parks Association of Queensland (NPAQ)
Don Rowlands, a Ranger In Charge An expedition that started from Witjira Wishing you good health and on scientific evidence (and a well- with this reliance on science? Do we
and descendent of the Watti Watti (Dalhousie Springs) on the desert’s safety as our community continues intended community). maintain greater bipartisanship? Do
family and the Wangkangurru western side to Wirrari (Birdsville). to grapple with the pandemic and its Whilst we have been consumed we address well understood long term
Yarluyandi elder in Central West This journey followed the trails of my consequences. with the pandemic and its social and issues?
Queensland Region, is based in ancestors which is now captured There is something about being on economic aftermath other underlying Since February, we as a community
Munga-Thirri National Park, also in the Dreamtime story, Thurtirla the back page which encourages issues remain. have changed enormously and we
known as the Simpson Desert. After Pula - The Two Boys. A story map more latitude. Well, here goes: now have an opportunity to change in
some time working in the cattle of waterholes and fishing holes by The commencement of the Royal
Although Australia and Queensland Commission into last summer's fires a considered way.
industry, it was time for a change. which First Nations people have lived
Don has a passion for looking after sustainably in the desert for tens of have managed the pandemic very well reminded us of two of these. Of course, of interest to us is our
country, natural environments and thousands of years. Not everyone is there remains much uncertainty about Initial representations made it clear National Parks (which have proven to
everything that depends on it, and it aware that First Nations people once our medium-term future. Extreme and that we should expect longer fire be very popular as travel restrictions
was this passion in late 1994 that set successfully lived here long before conflicting views abound, including: seasons and more severe fire events have eased). There is sufficient
cars and air-conditioning, but that is the economy is predicted to return as a regular part of our future (Karl evidence that experiencing nature
him on his path to becoming a Park QPWS Ranger Don Rowland in Munga-Thirri
my job to tell everyone and share the National Park. Photos: Luke Barrowcliffe. to original strength in a matter of Braganza, BOM, Head of Climate does support our mental health.
Ranger. Don successfully secured a
history, I love that! months to some years, JobKeeper Monitoring). The Federal Threatened The State's Protected Area Strategy
position with Queensland Parks and
I love sharing my backyard and all should end in September, it will need
Wildlife Services (QPWS) in 1994… What is the best part about Species Commissioner, Sally Box, has been in gestation for years whilst
its hidden treasure - for those who to be extended, a possible vaccine informed the Commission that of 327 there has been a commitment to the
and the rest is history. working in a National Park? spend big dollars buying 4WDs, or cure is months to years away, threatened species, 49 lost more State achieving 17% target of its area
How long have you worked in Working on country as a descendent Munga-Thirri National Park is one of Queensland's tourism industry will than 80% of their habitat and 65 lost being protected. Even though the
national parks? from the Watti Watti family and a the last great 4WD experiences. My be in the doldrums for years, it will 50% of theirs during the summer fires. State's finances will be stretched for
Since the early 1990s. Wangkangurru Yarluyandi elder in tip would be, be well prepared! Do a recover because of much greater Queensland's biodiversity is of national some time, we believe that it is time for
Munga-Thirri National Park is quite little reading up about where you’re internal tourism. and international significance. a well-funded Protected Area Strategy.
What is your most memorable
special. Truly the best part of working going. Carry a small backpack with As has often been stated, Australia The benefits to our biodiversity, our
moment? Broadly some choices are to be
in a national park is the opportunity water, snacks and a basic first aid kit. and Queensland's success in community and to tourism associated
My most memorable moment is to record sites and places retracing made: do we aim to return to where
When driving stay on marked trails combatting the virus to date has we were pre-virus? Do we continue benefits will be great in the long term.
when I received the Order of Australia my song lines to reconnect to been largely due to responses based
and most of all take time to stop,
Medal (OAM) for my services to my the memory of my ancestors and breathe and ‘feel’ the environment
community and the environment. I ensure these stories are available for around you, these spaces are here
must give a huge amount of credit to generations to come now and into the
WHAT’S
for everyone to enjoy and experience
the Department of Environment and future.
its wonder.
Science for their wonderful support
I also love talking to people from all
over the last 26 years and to the What is your top tip for campers?
walks of life out here in the wide-
ON
many wonderful mentors who helped Ensure you have a camping permit
open spaces, they can relax and get
me achieve my goals. It was a special in touch with the environment and and be well-equipped to cope with
part of my working life that I look back the world around them. As Rangers your environment. Always check
on very fondly. we look after some of the most park alerts when planning and before
Can you describe your favourite spectacular countries on earth, we leaving for your trip www.des.qld.gov.
national parks experience? help when needed, share information au. Leave your camp site better than
Traveling across Munga-Thirri National
Park with an archaeologist, linguist,
and skills and this is for me is an
amazing privilege and I would not
you found it, take all your rubbish with
you. Respect other campers!
NPAQ Activities & Events
and anthropologist to record and change a thing, I would do it all over
again! NPAQ thanks Don for taking time to Due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, most NPAQ events and activities have been cancelled.
share my people’s traditional stories, answer our questions. We appreciate
stretching back more than 60,000 What is your top tip for visitors to These cancellations were done with the interest of safety in mind and to comply with government regulations in this
the work all QPWS rangers undertake in
years. parks for bushwalking? protecting Queensland’s national parks. unprecedented and evolving situation.
As restrictions are gradually eased, please visit our website www.npaq.org.au/activities-events for the most up to
date information on what activities and events are upcoming.
14 15
Celebrating 90 years. 16
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