March 1, 2024
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting planned burns within the Bunya Mountains National Park from Friday (March 1), weather permitting.
The burn is part of the annual hazard reduction and conservation management program for parks and forests.
A QPWS spokesperson said smoke may be seen in the Bunya Mountains area.
“People with respiratory or other health problems should seek medical advice on mitigating the effects of smoke inhalation and should close windows and doors and keep medications close by if suffering from a respiratory illness,” the spokesperson said.
“The aim of this burn is to reduce the threat of severe wildfires in periods of very high fire danger and help protect life, property and maintain a healthy forest and grassland environment.
“Fire is important in many of Queensland’s natural ecosystems to maintain the diversity of native plants and animals. Fire plays a vital role in renewing these ecosystems through releasing nutrients, encouraging seed germination and providing ideal conditions for growth.
“Only a portion of the forest is burnt at any one time – this helps create a mosaic pattern that reduces the spread of bushfire and provides for variation in habitats for wildlife.
“Smoke can decrease visibility on the roads, so it is important that motorists drive safely to the conditions.
“Please observe all signage, barriers and directions from QPWS Rangers and do not enter closed areas.”
For more information, please call QPWS Eastern Highlands on 0439-663-840.
