A joint operation between Ipswich City Council and the Queensland Police Service to address illegal and anti-social behaviour in White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate has been hailed a success.
Operation Wildflower took place on 20 and 21 February in response to community concerns about illegal trail bike riders impacting the safety of visitors and wildlife in the estate as well as causing environmental damage.
Ipswich City Council compliance officers and environmental officers joined with officers from the Mounted Police and Springfield Police Station for the operation.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding thanked the Queensland Police Service for working closely with council on the operation.
“We have heard the community’s concern about illegal trail bike riding in White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate and we’re committed to working with the QPS on enforcement,” Mayor Harding said.
“Ipswich is home to some of the most amazing natural areas in South East Queensland. Keeping these areas beautiful and accessible means preserving vital wildlife and ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy these spaces safely.”
Outcomes included:
- Two dirt bike riders were detained and evidence collected – fines pending compliance checks;
- A well-established illegal fire pit was located and reported to council’s Natural Areas team for deconstruction;
- A new unauthorised trail constructed illegally for trial bikes was identified;
- Queensland Police Service issued warnings to the drivers of three vehicles parked illegally;
- In excess of 50 interactions with community members occurred, helping with the gathering of intelligence and increased awareness;
- Offensive graffiti was identified at Peter Tullett Memorial Park and reported to council and the Queensland Police Service.
Mayor Harding said initiatives to reduce illegal and anti-social behaviour on the estate would be ongoing.
“Council and the Queensland Police Service will continue to work together closely for monitoring and further action where required,” Mayor Harding said.
“The community can also play an important role by monitoring and reporting any issues to authorities.
“There are several trail bike parks in South East Queensland where riders can safely and legally enjoy this hobby, but White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate is not an appropriate spot.”
District Officer Superintendent David Cuskelly said Queensland Police Service was pleased to work closely with Ipswich City Council.
“This was a wonderful opportunity to work collaboratively with council and community to address an identified problem,” he said.
“It’s important we build a collective community culture of prevention and harm minimisation.”
Unauthorised vehicles in White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate can be reported via My Ipswich or council’s call centre on 3810 6666.
