Rangers will increase patrols in a Sunshine Coast national park after multiple metal spikes were found near popular trails.
The spikes, embedded in the ground with the sharp end pointing skyward, were found by mountain bikers and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers in Tewantin National Park.
A total of 13 metal spikes measuring about 18cm long have been removed from trails near Old Tewantin Road, close to Mount Tinbeerwah, over the past week.
QPWS rangers were alerted to the objects by a local mountain biking club, which removed eight spikes from the area late last week.
Rangers then carried out multiple sweeps of the trails using a metal detector to locate any remaining spikes, removing a further five this week.
Rangers are working with the Queensland Police Service and will carry out additional checks of the park over the coming days while increasing patrols of the area.
QPWS ranger John McQueeney said the presence of such potentially harmful objects was concerning.
“This is the first time we have received a report of this type of malicious activity in the area,” he said.
“Everyone deserves to have a safe, enjoyable experience in our national parks and any attempt to damage property or hurt visitors or wildlife is unacceptable.”
Visitors are urged to be vigilant of all hazards and report any dangerous objects to QPWS on 1300 130 372.
Mountain bikers are reminded to stay on designated paths, always wear safety gear and check the Park Alerts page before starting their journey.
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