With so much on offer at Bribie Island this Labour Day long weekend, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is reminding visitors and campers to plan ahead and be respectful so that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Manager for Moreton Bay area Chris Skennar said before the weekend begins, campers and motorists should purchase their permits ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
“While most camping areas are fully booked over the three-day long weekend, there are spaces still available at Poverty Creek trailer and group camping area,” Mr Skennar said.
“If you’re planning to drive on the beach, make sure to enter your registration correctly on your vehicle access permit as number plate surveillance cameras are in use in the recreation area and those caught without a valid vehicle access permit could face a hefty fine.
“Another thing to remember before leaving home is that pets, including dogs, are not permitted in the recreation area including inside vehicles, so be sure to find a carer ahead of time.”
When arriving at the Bribie Island Recreation Area, motorists are reminded to look out for children, wildlife and other drivers on inland tracks and beaches.
Mr Skennar said beach drivers should expect to see rangers and police patrolling the area over the three-day period.
“Fines can issued for speeding, drink and drug driving as well as other vehicle related offences including wearing seatbelts and mobile phone use,” he said.
“On top of the standard Queensland road rules, beach drivers also need to be mindful of the ever-changing environment and the potential impact on wildlife.
“Driving and parking vehicles on dunes or over vegetation is prohibited and rangers will hand out on-the-spot fines to anyone caught damaging these areas.”
Motorists should plan to drive two hours either side of low tide and to avoid driving at night.
Mr Skennar said drivers and boaties were asked to give turtles and shorebirds a wide berth as their survival depends on it.
“We’re asking boaties to avoid landing on the fragile northern tip of Bribie Island as shorebirds are roosting and feeding here,” he said.
“Disturbing migratory shorebirds can threaten their survival. Take care not to disturb them.”
The Ocean Beach has reopened to vehicles from the Fort Bribie day-use area to the WWII mine control hut, but vehicles are prohibited north of this section.
The inland Northern Access Track from Poverty Creek to Fort Bribie will remain closed while major road and drainage works are completed.
Anyone planning to camp away from facilities should bring a portable toilet.
Waste disposal sites are located at Ocean Beach toilets (access track P) and at Poverty Creek camping area.
Campers are also reminded that fires are only permitted in designated QPWS fire rings and all visitors must bring their own milled timber as collection of native timber is prohibited.
Prevent burns by extinguishing your campfire with water, not sand when unattended – hot coals covered with sand or dirt retain heat for hours and can cause severe burns.
