Guide for campers this Easter
Thursday 21 April 2011
Guide for campers this Easter
If you're one of the thousands of Queenslanders about to soak up this Easter holiday on one of the Great Barrier Reef's national park islands, GBRMPA are giving you a quick guide to good camping.
While most camping spots are heavily booked, those heading out should be mindful of what you can and can't do on the islands.
So here we go:
- Make sure you have your camping permits from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service before visiting the island.
- Before leaving, check what facilities are available at your campsite and what you are allowed to bring.
- On most national park islands, including popular islands in the Whitsundays, generators and compressors are not allowed.
- Keep your pets at home. No pets are allowed on national park islands or adjoining beaches and tidal lands.
- Never collect firewood or kindling from the park. Even dead branches are protected.
- It is prohibited to feed native animals. Allow animals to find their own food – do not leave food scraps around your campsite.
When you visit an island you are visiting the home of native animals. By taking the extra step, you can protect their home for the future. This includes:
- Remove dirt, seeds, insects and vermin from camping and picnic gear before you visit.
- Avoid using strong lights making loud noises or moving suddenly near nesting seabirds.
- Take all rubbish (such as food scraps, cigarette butts, plastic and paper) back to the mainland and dispose of it properly.
- Stay on marked trails, do not trample vegetation or break branches from trees and shrubs.
That's about it. Get out there and have fun you crazy kids. Happy Easter!