Check park alerts if planning Gold Coast hinterland visits

Issued: 17 Dec 2020

While it’s tempting to seek out waterfalls in the Gold Coast hinterland after the recent rain event, visitors should check park alerts and road conditions before heading to the mountains for a bushwalk or picnic.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) Principal Ranger John Carter said ranger crews were doing their best to clear fallen trees and landslides across walking tracks and had managed to reopen some picnic areas and tracks.

“Be aware that those sites which are open may be very busy, and parking spots could be limited,” Mr Carter said.

“At Tamborine, we’ve cleared the day use area at The Knoll, but Palm Grove and Joalah/Curtis Falls tracks are closed while we clear large trees from the tracks and assess the erosion to some areas. Cedar Creek and Witches Falls day-use areas and walking tracks are open.

‘At Springbrook National Park, crews have done an amazing job to remove a landslip from the Purling Brook circuit track. While a lot of debris is on the causeway and we’re clearing multiple tree falls, we have been able to reopen the track.”

“Springbrook’s Best of All Lookout and Natural Bridge are open, after crews cleared treefalls and debris. Warrie circuit and Twin Falls circuit are closed.

“Nearer to the coast, we’re checking Nerang National Park for damage, but the park is open.

“On the coast, Burleigh Head Oceanview track is closed due to the danger of rock falls, always a threat after heavy rain. The park’s Rainforest circuit is open. We’re cleaning debris from the fishing platform and other areas. Nearby, Tallebudgera track is clear and open.

“Lamington National Park’s short walks have reopened, while the longer walking tracks are currently closed while we carry out assessments and clear treefalls.

“The restrictions are in place for safety reasons, and we’d appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we strive to get the parks ready for Christmas holiday visitors,” Mr Carter said.