Help protect Bunya Mountains from dangerous plant disease, Phytophthora

The Qld government has increased its efforts to protect an iconic South Burnett national park from a devastating plant disease, with warnings stiff fines are in order for those who do not comply.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service have increased their efforts to protect the Bunya Mountains National Park from a devastating plant disease, and have asked for help from the public. Photo credit: David Martinelli

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is calling for public help in its efforts to protect the Bunya Mountains National Park from a devastating plant disease, or risk a harsh fine.

Phytophthora, which means “plant destroyer” in Greek, is a group of soil borne pathogens capable of causing cause root rot and other serious and infectious botanical illnesses.

The disease easily spreads through contaminated soil, infected plant material and human activity, like bush walking.

To prevent its spread into the park it is now mandatory for all Bunya Mountains National Park visitors to clean their boots before entering any of the walking tracks in the park.

Boot cleaning stations have been installed at the entrance of all walking tracks.

QPWS have also strongly urged visitors to clean their shoes before arriving and after leaving the park, which can help decrease the risk of spreading pathogens between natural areas.

Signs with instructions will be installed in the area to make it easier and more clear for visitors to understand their “obligations”. Photo credit: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

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Visitor can be issued with fines if they are found not using the boot stations and still accessing the park.

Signs with instructions will be installed in the area to make it easier and more clear for visitors to understand their “obligations”.

South Burnett Senior Ranger Mark Casey said these stations can make a big difference in helping reduce the spread of the ecologically damaging disease.

“Without action to reduce the spread of phytophthora, the ancient Bunya Pines and the species that depend on them could be at risk,“ he said.

“This is about preserving one of Queensland’s most iconic natural landscapes for future generations.”

Mr Casey said the park staff needed help from visitors to ensure the Bunya Mountains’ incredible biodiversity is preserved.

“Please play your part protecting Bunya Mountains National Park by staying on designated walking tracks, ensuring your gear is clean and free of dirt before entering and exiting the park, use the boot cleaning stations provided, and avoid walking during wet, muddy conditions.”

Originally published as Help protect Bunya Mountains from dangerous plant disease, Phytophthora