Local environmentalist says its time to rethink our enjoyment of natural areas
By Sonia Isaacs
A POPULAR walking track in Glass House Mountains National Park has been closed until 2025, with authorities citing concerns over the spread of a destructive plant disease.
Authorities said the detection of Phytophthora, a soil-borne organism that kills key species of native plants and fruit trees, was the primary reason for the closure. The pathogen is often spread through infected soil, commonly carried on footwear.
A local environmental advocate is urging the community to rethink how the region’s natural areas can be enjoyed in a more sustainable way.
Native ecosystem consultant, Spencer Shaw, explained that the temporary closure of the Coochin Hills section of the park was necessary. However, he warned that it was only a matter of time before the disease spread to other parts of the national park.
Mr Shaw emphasised the fragility of the park’s ecosystems, which are already under strain from the physical impact of large numbers of visitors.
“This vulnerability could lead to Phytophthora wreaking havoc, with significant environmental and economic impacts— not only on native plants but also on commercially produced crops in the area,” Mr Shaw said.
“It’s inevitable it will hit all the mountains that are having lots of people walking up and down them.” He suggested open discussions on managing the ongoing environmental impact of high visitor numbers. He proposed options like capping visitor numbers or investing in a ‘Great Walk’ circuit for the Glasshouse region.
A Department of Environment and Science spokesperson confirmed that Phytophthora was discovered during routine park health checks around September 27. The track will remain closed until January 2025, with the closure aimed at reducing visitor numbers during the upcoming school holiday period. Queensland Parks and Wildlife and Biosecurity Queensland will monitor the area during this time.
“The partial closure within the Coochin Hills section is a precautionary measure to protect high- risk plant species,” the spokesperson said, adding that the affected area is not an established walking track, and other trails remain open.
The department encouraged visitors to help reduce the risk of spreading the disease by cleaning their footwear before entering and leaving the park. “We are taking steps to manage the spread of the plant disease, including community education, signage at the park, and the installation of footwear cleaning stations,” the spokesperson added.
