Rangers working to protect and care for Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island) National Park will soon have a new place to rest after a hard days work after construction of new ranger housing got underway last week.
Deputy Director-General of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships Ben Klaassen said additional housing was needed on the island to accommodate four new Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) rangers who are working alongside Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers to jointly manage the island's protected areas.
"Temporary buildings will be installed initially and planning for the permanent buildings is currently underway," Mr Klaassen said.
"Site works for the temporary buildings started last week near the existing Ben Ewa ranger base.
"Once completed, the permanent accommodation will meet contemporary requirements for off-grid living.
"The design will ensure the rangers housing is modern, comfortable and as environmentally friendly as it can be."
QYAC Interim CEO Cameron Allanson said the construction of the additional on-site ranger accommodation will support the Quandamooka People's ability to achieve the best environmental and cultural outcomes for their country.
"The traditional and cultural knowledge held by the QYAC rangers is vital to ensuring Qundamooka People's connection to the land and waters of Moreton Bay is represented in the management of Gheebulum Kunungai National Park, and the other protected areas on Mulgumpin," Mr Allanson said.
"The QYAC rangers are already working alongside QPWS rangers to jointly conduct fire and pest management activities, cultural site protection, servicing of campgrounds and visitor amenities, undertaking infrastructure maintenance and work and developing new visitor opportunities."
Mr Klaassen said the new ranger accommodation is one of several key initiatives well underway to assist the implementation of the joint management program on Mulgumpin.
"The Queensland Government is committed to working with QYAC to ensure Mulgumpin's natural and cultural values are protected so it maintains its standing as one of the world's best eco-tourism destinations," he said.
"Work is underway to review the Mulgumpin Protected Area Management Plan to incorporate traditional knowledge and recommendations from expert working groups."
The construction site for the new ranger accommodation will be visible from Middle Road but will not impact on any visitor access.
Visitors are reminded to always stay out of closed areas for their own safety.
