Planned Burn Notice Hinchinbrook Island National Park

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) will undertake planned burning in Hinchinbrook Island National Park as part of its annual conservation and hazard reduction program.

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The burn will use aerial ignition on sections of the island adjacent to the Thorsborne Trail. The Thorsborne Trail and campsites will remain open during this time.

Due to the complexity of the operation, burning will occur on a suitable day during May, subject to weather and operational conditions. Smoke may be visible in nearby areas including Lucinda, Cardwell, and along the Bruce Highway.

Visitors to the park are advised to follow all signage and directions from QPWS Rangers and to avoid entering closed areas. Motorists should take care when travelling in smoky conditions and be aware of firefighting activity.

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Planned burns play an important role in maintaining ecosystem health, supporting biodiversity, and reducing the risk and intensity of bushfires. These operations are weather-dependent and may result in smoke lingering in some areas.

Only a portion of the landscape is burnt at any one time. This helps to create a mosaic pattern of burnt and unburnt areas that increases the opportunity for safer and more successful response to bushfires while supporting plant regeneration and protecting important habitat for wildlife.

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If affected by smoke, residents are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed and keep any necessary respiratory medication close by.

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For updates on park conditions and fire activity, visit Park Alerts or follow Qld Park Alerts online. For more information, contact QPWS at Hinchinbrook@detsi.qld.gov.au

Public safety is the highest consideration in all QPWS fire management activities, visit the Fire management webpage.

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Live air quality data, and information on smoke and dust health actions, can be found on the Queensland Government’s website: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/management/monitoring/air  

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