Two new rangers will be deployed to a coastal region, but the local MP says a peak-period cap on vehicle permits for a recreation area there has not been supported by the state.
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton welcomed confirmation that Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships staff will be provided to Noosa, while increased driver-safety messaging, including through Vehicle Access Permit applications for the Cooloola Recreation Area (CRA), will be considered as part of future enhancements.
Four Kabi Kabi Land and Sea Rangers will continue to be supported through the Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program, and the area management plan is “in the final stages of review prior to being released”.
But she said long term advocacy from the community to cap the number of permits during peak periods, to better manage the Cooloola Recreation Area and reduce dangerous behaviours, has not been supported.
Ms Bolton remained positive that management of the area would improve, saying visitors expected Noosa’s natural attractions to match what was promoted, without hooning and overcrowding detracting from the experience.
“Two new rangers for Noosa is welcomed, and will assist in improved management, and I thank the minister and QPWS&P for providing these” she said.
“Our rangers, police, emergency services and volunteers carry an enormous load across Teewah Beach, Noosa North Shore and our national parks, and every extra resource provided is appreciated.”
Ms Bolton said the community had been waiting for the Cooloola Recreation Area Management Plan (CRAMP), with the state government advising in late 2025 that it was intended for release in early 2026.
“The CRAMP is important, as it is about how our natural assets are managed,” she said.
Want more free local news? Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, and sign up for our FREE daily news email.
“Extensive feedback was provided from our community in its drafting, and we are waiting for its release to see whether Noosa’s concerns will be addressed.”
She said the minister also advised that QPWS&P had regular engagement with senior officers of the Queensland Police Service, who endeavoured to maintain a weekly presence at Teewah Beach, supplemented by targeted enforcement and education operations during peak visitation periods.
“Managing volume is an operational matter, as is safety,” she said.
“We look forward to continue working with QPWS&P and QPS to reduce dangers and meet the expectations of both residents and our visitors.”
