Rangers issue 33 fines after illegal blaze tore through Fraser Island

Staggering new numbers reveal the out-of-control campfire which devastated Fraser Island wasn’t enough to deter illegal fire lighters.

After an illegal campfire turned into a blaze that destroyed half of the World Heritage listed Fraser Island in 2020, the Department of Environment and Science has revealed 33 fire-related fines have been issued to visitors so far this year.

The quantity has left rangers questioning how to get the message through to people.

The most recent incident happened last weekend when a camper was fined for lighting an illegal campfire.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife manager compliance Mike Devery said the person received a $689 fine for lighting an illegal campfire in the beach camping zone at the Wongai Camping Area on the southern part of the island.

“Lighting fires on K’gari outside the designated areas is dangerous and irresponsible behaviour, and people need to follow the rules,” Mr Devery said.

“QPWS rangers take a zero-tolerance approach to illegal campfires on K’gari and have issued 33 fire-related PINs to campers in less than eight months since January 1, 2021.

“This is an extraordinary number, especially considering last year’s bushfire on K’gari was caused by an illegal campfire that wasn’t extinguished properly.

“Campfires are illegal on K’gari and in many parts of the Cooloola Recreation Area to prevent bushfires, to stop people from burning inappropriate items, and to reduce injuries caused by people stepping on hot campfire embers covered in sand.

Last year’s wildfire on Fraser Island. Photo supplied Cathedrals on Fraser

“The ban is also in place to keep people safe and to protect the island’s unique flora and fauna and areas of cultural significance for the Butchulla people.”

“Campers who break the rules on K’gari can expect a fine as other visitors and residents on the island are providing information to rangers about illegal campfires.”

The wildfire that tore through Fraser Island last year was started by four campers on October 14.

It threatened structures and townships as it burned through half the island.

The four men involved faced court and received fines.

Most recent fire related infringements:

- August 13, 8am: “Light fire that is prohibited by regulatory notice/permit/authority”, $689, Beach Camp Zone 8 (Marloo camping area)

- August 15, 8.45am: “Light fire that is prohibited by regulatory notice/permit/authority”, $689, Beach Camp Zone 1 (Wongai camping area)

The wildfire burning on Fraser Island last year

Total fire related fines issued in 2021:

- 22 Infringements issued for “Light fire that is prohibited by regulatory notice/permit/authority” ($667/$689)

- 4 Infringements issued for “Light/keep fire other than in BBQ or fireplace provided” ($667/$689)

- 2 Infringement issued for “Fail to put out fire when leaving fire” ($667/$689)

- 4 Infringements issued for “Remove, damage or use a plant for making a fire” ($133)

- 1 Infringement issued for “Deposit non-combustible material in fire” ($275)

Mr Devery said campfires were only permitted on Fraser Island in the fire rings at Dundubara and Waddy Point camping areas.

“People must bring their own untreated timber if they are planning on enjoying a campfire at Dundubara and Waddy Point,” he said.

“Visitors and residents to the island are not permitted to use bush wood for campfires.

“I encourage visitors and residents to the island to report suspected illegal campfires to QPWS on 1300 130 372 or to the Queensland Police Service on 131 444.”

Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation welcomes report into Fraser Island fires