A Sunshine Coast trio has been fined more than $5000 after an illegal campfire they lit at Teewah in the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy National Park sparked a bushfire.
The fire broke out on October 26, burning about seven hectares and triggering an emergency response involving Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers and support from Rural Fire Service Queensland.
Campers were evacuated and water-bombing aircraft and helicopters were used to contain the blaze and protect nearby camping areas.
Following an investigation, the three men were fined for unlawfully lighting fires, leaving them unattended, and using plant material from the recreation area to start the blaze. Eight penalty infringement notices were issued in total.
QPWS principal ranger Danielle Mansfield said the Cooloola Recreation Area was under a permanent fire prohibition for safety and environmental reasons.
“The permanent fire prohibition was introduced in 2020 to help prevent incidents like this,” Ms Mansfield said.
“Our number one priority is the safety of rangers and visitors to our protected areas, and we also want to protect the natural and cultural values of the Cooloola Recreation Area.
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“Campfires are not compatible with Teewah’s coastal environment, because they can quickly escape into the dunes and bushland.
“We thank those visitors who respect other campers and the natural and cultural values by not lighting campfires at Teewah.”
QPWS rangers routinely provide education to visitors, and fines can be issued to anyone who ignores the permanent fire ban.
