This month is the 50th anniversary of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the agency entrusted with the protection and management of the state’s national parks and conservation areas.
The state’s Minister for Tourism and Environment Andrew Powell said what began as a passionate group of naturalists, volunteers, and forestry rangers has grown into a professional, science-led service of around 875 rangers managing more than 1,000 national parks and protected areas.
“Queensland’s national parks are among the most world’s specular areas of natural beauty, and that’s why it’s critical we protect and manage them properly,” Minister Powell said.
“We’re backing our rangers – and increasing their numbers under our More Rangers, Better Neighbours commitment – so that generations of Queenslanders and visitors can continue to experience the magic of our protected areas now and into the future.
“We’re delivering on our commitment to protect Queensland’s unique environments, unlike a decade of Labor failure when they failed to meet their own protected area target and mismanaged natural resources.”
National Parks Association of Queensland Chief Executive Officer Chris Thomas congratulated QPWS on its milestone anniversary.
“For five decades, QPWS has been a dedicated guardian of Queensland’s natural and cultural treasures, preserving our unique landscapes and biodiversity for future generations,” Mr Thomas said.
“NPAQ is honoured to have played a part in the early advocacy for protected areas and continues to support QPWS’s vital work in conservation and sustainable park management.
“We thank QPWS rangers, staff, and partners whose passion and commitment have shaped this incredible legacy.”