More Rangers, Better Neighbours
The LNP has today announced a major step forward for Queensland’s national parks with one of the biggest boosts to rangers and environmental management in Queensland’s history.
The More Rangers, Better Neighbours policy includes an additional 150 park rangers to focus on invasive species management and better preserve Queensland’s natural environment.
The policy is part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future and will help parks across Queensland from small areas in urban centres, like Burleigh Head National Park, through our largest, like Munga-Thirri near Birdsville.
Shadow Minister for Environment Sam O’Connor said the LNP’s ranger boost would ensure national parks were safer to use and better managed.
“The LNP will boost national park management with more rangers and better invasive species management so they can be enjoyed by all Queenslanders,” Mr O’Connor said.
“Under Labor, national parks have become the worst neighbour you can have.
“To improve the management of our current estate we need more rangers on the ground working to tackle invasive weeds and feral animals, ensuring facilities and access are properly maintained and undertaking conservation activities.”
Mr O’Connor said the LNP would also deliver a new specialist fire strike force with 30 dedicated fire rangers to coordinate QPWS fire management.
“The LNP’s commitment will safeguard properties and our parks by ensuring fire breaks are sufficiently maintained and working collaboratively with neighbouring landholders and the rural fire service,” he said.
“Rangers will be strategically positioned across the state to quickly respond to remote areas, reducing the size, spread and impact of bushfires.
“Given the geography of Queensland, we need rangers placed around the state who can be activated rapidly to respond in emergencies.
“Not only will this protect our precious natural estate, it will also protect neighbouring properties.
“Only the LNP has the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future and will boost national parks care with additional pest and weed management, and fuel load reduction.”
Chris Thomas, CEO of National Parks Association of Queensland said Queensland’s national park investment had lagged behind other states and jurisdictions, impacting its capacity and capability to manage parks effectively.
“NPAQ welcomes this critical investment in rangers by the LNP, it is essential we invest in park management to protect them for generations to come and to provide world class nature destinations,” Mr Thomas said.
“Increasing investment is critically important for enabling QPWS to maintain the natural and cultural values that parks were established to protect, as well as for providing and maintaining an expanding and diverse range of suitable, safe and sustainable visitor experiences.
“NPAQ has played a pivotal role in the creation of many national parks in Queensland and has a specific mission to ensure the protection, expansion, effective management and presentation of national parks and other protected areas across Queensland.”
