Camp oven Christmas dinners are off the menu on Fraser Island

22 Dec 2003

Fraser Island campers will be enjoying cold or gas-cooked Christmas meals due to the risk of wildfire.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has prohibited lighting of fires on the Fraser Island Recreation Area, including the beaches.

Great Sandy District Manager Rob Allan said the total fire prohibition would remain in place until further notice.

“Fraser is very dry at present and we would appreciate the public’s help in protecting people, wildlife and property,” Mr Allan said.

“There will be a high to very high fire danger over the next few days, with temperatures forecast in the 30s and poor prospects for rain.

“All open fires, including those using fire rings, fire beads and designated fire places, are prohibited.

“Fuel stoves such as gas barbecue are permitted, but extra care needs to be taken even with those.”

Mr Allan said rangers would be patrolling to make sure fires were not lit.

“Information about the prohibition is being spread to commercial tour operators, local tourism information centres, backpacker hostels, Rural Fire Service and barge operators, and via QPWS permit issuing centres.

“On-the-spot fines of $375 apply to anyone found breaching the prohibition. The maximum penalty is $12,375,” he said.

“In January this year, a campfire lit during a fire prohibition got away and caused major damage. The culprits ended up in court and were ordered to pay fines and compensation totalling $30,000.”

Released by: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service