Campers asked to leave Fraser Is

DUE to a severe weather warning and possible cyclone for Fraser Island, rangers have asked campers to leave the island as a precaution.

BREAKING NEWS: Due to a severe weather warning and possible cyclone for Fraser Island, rangers have asked campers to leave the island as a precaution.

Department of Environment and Resource Management regional manager Great Sandy, Ross Belcher, said DERM had been advised of a chance of a cyclone passing over Fraser Island tomorrow (Tuesday) or Wednesday.

"Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service campgrounds in Great Sandy National Park including Fraser Island, Inskip Point and Cooloola are closed until the conditions improve," Mr Belcher said.

"The Bureau of Meteorology has released a Severe Weather Warning for the Fraser and Sunshine Coasts.

"Heavy rains and damaging winds are expected. Damaging winds and large seas may develop about coastal and Island communities.

"We'll keep a close eye on weather conditions and forecasts, but public safety is our top priority. 

"Heavy rains over the last few days have increased the risk that trees will be blown over in high winds, particularly at Inskip, so the risk to campers has also increased.

"Track and beach conditions will be hazardous.

"Rangers were visiting Fraser Island campers this afternoon, asking them to leave tonight or in the morning.

"Many campers, especially those camping along the beach outside our established campgrounds, have already packed up and left.

"Rangers will be visiting Inskip and Cooloola campers tomorrow morning (Tuesday).

"Given that it is not school holidays, and we have had rain over the weekend, there are not large numbers of people camping.

 "For your safety, observe all signage, directions from rangers and do not enter closed
areas."

For further information please check the DERM website www.derm.qld.gov.au  or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

Originally published as Campers asked to leave Fraser Is