Note: The planned hazard reduction burn for the weekend has been postponed, however the estate will remain CLOSED for the weekend.
Ipswich residents are being urged to stay away from White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate this weekend as it remains closed for hazard reduction burns.
As COVID-19 restrictions start to ease, many Queenslanders will be looking forward to leaving their homes for recreational activities this weekend.
But Chair of the Ipswich Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Teresa Harding, said that it was important for the community’s safety to avoid the White Rock area and visit other parts of Ipswich instead.
“It’s crucial that people stay away from White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate this weekend so we can carry out hazard reduction burns safely,” Mayor Harding said.
“Ipswich City Council is doing everything it can to reduce the bushfire risk to our community following last year’s catastrophic fire season and current conditions are ideal to conduct these burns.”
Signs have been placed at the entrance gates to White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate and infringement penalties will be issued for anyone who ignores signage and enters the area.
“We appreciate the efforts of Ipswich residents in staying home to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and while we know many people will be looking forward to getting out to White Rock for a walk or to hit the bike trails, now is not the time,” Mayor Harding said.
“Social distancing is working to help flatten the curve and I encourage everyone to continue doing what they can to avoid a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases.”
Deputy Chair of the Ipswich Local Disaster Management Group, Councillor Kate Kunzelmann, said it was important to continue following health advice.
“While some of the restrictions are easing slightly, we have to make sure we keep following health advice and maintain social distancing,” Cr Kunzelmann said.
“As we’ve seen in other regions, the situation can change quickly and we don’t want to take our foot off the brake too quickly in our response to the COVID-19 outbreak.”
From Saturday, Queenslanders will be able to leave their homes for recreation and the distance they can travel has been extended to 50 kilometres.
The new rules mean residents can now shop for non-essential items, go for a drive, have a picnic, visit a national park or ride a motorbike, jetski or boat for pleasure.
But physical distancing guidelines remain in place and outings are limited to members of the same household, or an individual and one friend.
Visit council’s website for more information on hazard reduction burns and what Ipswich City Council is doing in response to COVID-19.
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