Yarraman residents fighting to keep Rogers Park open after vandalism

Burnett residents are calling for help to save a ‘very special’ park in danger of closing permanently after vandals caused significant, expensive damage to it for the second time in three years.

A “very special” park near Yarraman is in danger of closing permanently after repeated, significant vandalism caused costly damage to infrastructure for the second time in three years. Photo: Jess Zenovich

Burnett residents are calling for help to save a “very special” park near Yarraman in danger of closing permanently after vandals caused significant, expensive damage to it for the second time in three years.

A Department of the Environment spokesman said Thursday the Rogers Park Day Use Area was closed to the public in late 2024 after repeated vandalism and destruction of the public toilets and amenities.

“Unfortunately, due to significant vandalism to the toilets and plumbing at the Rogers Park Small Day Use Area in Yarraman State Forest the amenities are closed,” the spokesman said.

“It is disappointing that individuals continue to vandalise this infrastructure as restoration is at significant expense to the Queensland tax payer.”

This is reportedly the second time since 2022 the park has been forced to close due to serious vandalism of the plumbing and toilet systems, despite regular patrolling.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has historically maintained Rogers Park, which includes a toilet block, shelter shed, picnic tables and barbecues.

Damage from vandalism has previously been repaired by rangers and contractors at significant public expense.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has historically maintained Rogers Park, which includes a toilet block, shelter shed, picnic tables and barbecues. Photo: Contributed.

Tania Paul, owner of the Yarraman Caravan Park and Cabins, put a call out on social media asking for residents to share their support for Rogers Park in the hope to compile evidence of proof “the community cares”.

“I have written to tourism bodies, council and (Attorney-General and Nanango MP) Deb Frecklington,” she shared in a community Facebook group.

“Hoping we can get this decision changed, it would be a shame to see Rogers Park close.”

Dozens of people left heartfelt comments and shared memories about times they have spent in the park throughout their lives.

“It would be a shame to lose this park … a hidden gem which our family love so much,” Kay said.

“Rogers Park also has historic value to the local community,” Steve wrote.

“We have spent many family get-togethers at Rogers. It would be a huge loss to see it close.”

“Rogers park was used so much by our community … even for weddings and celebrations,” Glennys said.

“ … Bringing joy to families as well as supporting the many projects that the Lions Clubs were noted for … such a pretty setting with the jacarandas in full bloom. We must fight to keep this part of our history.”

Yarraman State Forest day use area, also called Rogers Park. Photo: Google Maps

“It is a magical, iconic spot which is great to take the visitors or grandchildren to for a picnic,” Denise shared.

“It would be a disastrous slap in the face to locals to have it ‘taken away’.

“It has military and historical significance to the local area and must be preserved.”

The park was named after the forester who once lived there, Lewis John Rogers.

The Rogers’ family home was located on a hill above the township and was in an ideal location for plane spotting during World War II.

Mr Rogers and his wife, Hazel, reportedly volunteered as air spotters, reporting their sightings of approaching aircraft to Air Control personnel in Kingaroy.

The timber house was later moved to the Yarraman township and is still in use today.

The park is also known for its many large, mature jacaranda trees that create a carpet of purple each flowering season.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service are considering options for the future of the site.

Originally published as Yarraman residents fighting to keep Rogers Park open after vandalism