Wet Tropics Walking Strategy

SUMMARY ~ October 2001 The complete Walking Strategy is available on the web at www.wettropics.gov.au/mlr/managing_tourism.htm In brief A Vision for the future The development of a high quality walking track network will provide This Walking Strategy has been developed will tell people about the length and visitors and the local community with over the past two years to guide the future difficulty and make the walks easy to find a diversity of recreational and development and management of a range and to follow. educational opportunities. of walks throughout the Wet Tropics Guidelines have been developed to set Priorities are set for track maintenance region. standards and priorities for maintaining and upgrades and the assessment of Walking is an increasingly popular and upgrading existing tracks and new walking opportunities. activity in the Wet Tropics which can building new ones. provide benefits for visitors and local A Walking Advisory Group will provide communities. People who manage walks will work to expert advice to assist the strategy’s these standards when building or implementation. Walking allows people the time, freedom maintaining walking tracks so that they Each walk will be managed according and flexibility to interact intimately with are safe and provide the desired to a track classification system, walk the wide range of Wet Tropics experience for walkers. This strategy settings and individual walk environments. Walking can increase identifies which walks are most important management plans. people’s understanding and awareness of to spend time and money on. the region’s natural and cultural values. All those involved in managing walking Rainforest Aboriginal people will be It offers social, recreational and need to work together across the Wet given opportunities to participate in educational benefits for all sectors of the Tropics region. walk management and cultural community and can provide employment tourism. and economic benefits across the Wet There are over 145 currently managed Tropics region. walks in the Wet Tropics region, both Information will be readily available so that people can choose walks that suit The Wet Tropics region will provide a inside and adjoining the World Heritage their abilities and complete the walk diversity of walks to suit the various needs Area. Land managers, councils, Rainforest safely. and abilities of walkers. Aboriginal people, walkers, the tourism industry and conservation groups need to Educational and promotional material People are looking for different cooperate and coordinate walking will tell walkers about the region’s experiences when they go walking. Some management across boundaries. This will natural and cultural features. people like short, easy walks where they ensure that money and resources available can visit waterfalls or learn about the for walking are used for the best results. Visitor demand and impacts will be vegetation and wildlife. Others may seek researched and monitored to ensure There is a need to research and monitor challenging, overnight hikes in remote that walking is environmentally the benefits and adverse impacts of areas. sustainable and satisfies the needs of walking. People need information about what types walkers. Improved research and monitoring will of walks there are, how to find them and A coordinated system of walking help land managers by finding out what what preparations they need to walk management will enable different sort of walks people enjoy, what sort of safely. government agencies, local councils, information walkers need, how to prevent Aboriginal people, the tourism Comprehensive information about walkers damaging the environment and industry and walkers to work together walking and safety will be readily available how walking contributes to the local to achieve these goals. through tourist centres, brochures, guide economy. books and the internet. Signs on the walks

Keeping on track We are interested in your comments and advice about walks and their management.

Please write to WTMA at PO Box 2050 4870 OR Call the WTMA Office on: 07 4052 0555 OR Email: [email protected]

Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 1 Cooperative Management

Working together Aboriginal Research participation There is a diverse cross-section of people Rainforest Aboriginal people have a There is little research information and groups involved in walking special interest in walking management available which focuses on walking in the management in the Wet Tropics region, due to the cultural significance of many Wet Tropics. The strategy will ensure both inside and adjoining the World tracks. Some walks, especially longer ones coordinated research into the demand for Heritage Area. They include a wide range and those leading to significant features, walking, its benefits and environmental, of state and local government land follow traditional Aboriginal routes which economic and social impacts. It will agencies, local bushwalkers, the tourism connect all facets of their life and culture. encourage research that is relevant and industry, Aboriginal groups and These walks are often regarded as accessible to on ground managers and conservationists. significant cultural sites by Aboriginal assist them in monitoring of walks. people, manifesting their connections To manage walking effectively across the with nature through dreaming tracks. Wet Tropics region, a cooperative working relationship will be established between Aboriginal participation in walking Key actions all these management agencies and management offers opportunities for ➣ Commission research: interest groups. The strategy encourages employment through tourism operations, the development of existing local guided walks and track construction and • to provide information regarding community networks to help provide maintenance. walker use, demand and satisfaction effective management at a local level. levels and ways to improve walker education. • to identify, measure and monitor walker impacts and their relationship Key actions Key actions with walker behaviour. ➣ Coordinate communication and ➣ Refine and put into action agreed actions between WTMA and • into the economic and social benefits protocols for detailed consultation and land managers. of walking and the role of walks negotiation about walking track routes. ➣ (especially ‘icon’ walks) in the Establish a Walking Advisory Group ➣ Ensure protocols apply consistently development of local tourism. to provide expert advice to assist the across management agency boundaries strategy’s implementation. and the cultural integrity of walking ➣ Ensure local participation in walking tracks is maintained and cultural sites management through community protected. advisory groups. ➣ Facilitate economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities in cultural tourism and walking track construction Aboriginal Consultation and maintenance. Rainforest Aboriginal people have ➣ Ensure effective input by Aboriginal been involved in the development of people in the issuing of permits for this strategy and have provided a designated activities associated with substantial report on their walking such as commercial operations, expectations and concerns. Aboriginal research and interpretation. traditional owners have been ➣ Provide cross-cultural training for consulted regarding the inclusion of land managers and Aboriginal organisations and representatives. specific walking tracks on their country. Additional cultural walks may ➣ Seek resources for Aboriginal liaison officers and to train and employ be included as Aboriginal groups Aboriginal track workers, either as full develop tourism and cultural time employees, contract workers or education on their country. workers on particular clan lands.

Wet Tropics Nature Based Tourism Strategy

The Walking Strategy concentrates specifically on those issues affecting management of walking. It complements the Nature Based Tourism Strategy (2000) which provides broad policies and strategic directions for the future management of nature based tourism and recreation within the Wet Tropics. It is available on the web at www.wettropics.gov.au/mlr/managing_tourism.htm

2 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy Creating a diversity of walking experiences

Short walks It is important to provide diverse walking overnight walks. The Thorsborne Trail on Key Actions experiences to match the abilities and Hinchinbrook Island is a remote long expectations of walkers. Currently there distance 5 day walk which is usually used are 148 managed walks covered by the to capacity. The popularity of the long Walk diversity Walking Strategy in the Wet Tropics region walks available suggests that there is a ➣ Develop walks which will improve the (see the attached map for details). Most of need for others. The strategy identifies diversity available in the Wet Tropics. these are public walks managed by the various day and overnight walks to The following types of walks have been Parks and Wildlife Service be developed, preferably as part identified as priorities: or local governments. The majority of an extended network of • Full day and overnight walks, of walks tend to be short walks of tracks which will enable including long distance walking an hour or less and most walkers walkers to choose a route, networks with access points to enable use just a few of these. It is distance and degree of them to be used for shorter walks estimated that about 95% of difficulty to suit their needs as well, the 1.5 million annual and the time available. walks by visitors in the • Remote long distance 3-4 day walks, area take place on just Heritage walks • Cultural and historical heritage walks, 25 tracks which total The Wet Tropics region is rich only 40km in length. • Guided walks, in Aboriginal culture. Its more These are often the recent history includes • Canopy walks. short popular walks logging, mining, such as settlement and Walker diversity World War 2 ➣ To satisfy a diversity of walker activities. All these capabilities and characteristics, provide themes are of great interest a range of walks with: to visitors and many current and proposed walks would benefit from • Different distances, times and degrees additional information for visitors about of difficulty, their cultural and historical associations. the Marrdja • Opportunities for different group sizes Aboriginal people would like to offer more Boardwalk in the and degrees of social interaction, guided walks as a means of improving Daintree, the Curtain cultural interaction and education. • Opportunities for people with Fig in the Tablelands disabilities, including wheelchair or the access, Lookout. People often Privately managed walks do these short walks to The Walking Strategy includes a very small • Degrees of challenge, adventure, reach features such as number of privately managed walks. comfort, risk, preparation and waterfalls, swimming Private walks often offer additional self-reliance. holes, giant rainforest trees experiences much valued by visitors such and scenic views, or to see and learn as specialist wildlife viewing, Regional diversity about the various types of rainforest birdwatching, or rainforest talks. As part of ➣ Develop walks in the southern areas habitat and wildlife in the the implementation phase it is proposed of the Wet Tropics, including ‘icon’ Wet Tropics. to liaise with managers of private walks to walks such as a long distance network include their walks in the strategy. and a canopy walk. Longer walks ➣ Provide and promote walks which People also do longer walks for recreation, Regional distribution take advantage of the cooler Tablelands adventure, education and solitude in a It is also important that the walks climate and drier weather in western natural environment and to reach more available are well distributed throughout areas. remote features of the Wet Tropics. There the Wet Tropics region. The strategy are relatively few longer walks which offer proposes that initial emphasis be placed day trips or overnight camping and some on developing walks in southern areas to sense of adventure and reliance on provide additional options for visitors to outdoor skills. Present opportunities the south of Cairns and to assist in include the Goldfield Track and Mount benefiting local economies outside of the Bartle Frere walks which are well used as main tourist destinations. Managed Walks The Walking Strategy deals specifically Check out the map! with actively ‘managed’ walks. It does not include a lot of other ‘unmanaged’ walks For a list of managed walks and other potential which are popular with bushwalkers or may be Aboriginal cultural trails. walks take a look at the attached map. However, some of these may be proposed as ‘managed’ walks later on. Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 3 Specific Walk Priorities

Some of the priority walks identified to Millstream Link (QPWS) Day walks create a diverse network are listed below There is an opportunity to link the short with brief notes to explain the reasons for walks at and Little their importance. This list is not intended Millstream Falls with a track running Dalrymple Gap Track (QPWS) to be definitive or to exclude the alongside the stream. The Dalrymple Gap Track offers an easily development of other new or existing There are sites of Aboriginal and historical accessible day or overnight walk with a walks. For convenience, walks are grouped significance and opportunities for variety of vegetation habitats, from into short walks, day walks and different platypus watching. eucalypt scrub to rainforest, and potential types of long distance walks. Walk for scenic views to the coast. It has managers and any special interpretive recently been reopened. The old stone features have been noted. Bump Track (QPWS) bridge has been repaired due to its The Bump Track is the only managed walk historical importance. The track also has between Cairns and Port Douglas. A walk Aboriginal cultural significance. The track traversing the range on an old road, it needs directional and interpretive signs Short walks and half day offers access to Mowbray Falls and views and some creek crossing and walks to the coast. There is an opportunity to reconstruction works. create an educational walk, focusing on its historical use by Aboriginal people and Wabunga Wayemba (QPWS) white settlers. Mission Beach Circuit This is an established Aboriginal walk (QPWS, Johnstone & Cardwell Shire which needs interpretive signs and would Councils) suit guided tours. The walk has Aboriginal Palmerston Canopy Walk (QPWS) The circuit would link the Bicton Hill, carved trees and cultural significance. It The Heritage Trails Network are currently Cutten Brothers and Kennedy Tracks along could link with the proposed Koolmoon investigating designs for a canopy walk the coast with Lacey Creek and the Licuala Creek Walk to become a circuit. near Crawfords Lookout on the Walk inland to form a loop track. The walk Palmerston Highway. The walk will offer would provide a diverse mixture of visitors a rare opportunity to view the beaches, mangroves, coastal views, Echo Creek (Private) rainforest canopy up close and to look lowland rainforest, licuala palms and The Heritage Trails Network is working down across the steep North Johnstone opportunities for cassowary viewing. The with traditional owners to create a half day River Valley. QPWS, Johnstone Shire circuit could provide a range of walks from Aboriginal cultural walk to Echo Creek Council, Mamu Traditional Owners, half an hour to overnight and Falls on an existing track. Walks will be WTMA and others are involved in opportunities for Aboriginal guided tours. Aboriginal guided tours through pristine furthering the proposal for this ‘icon’ walk rainforest. The walk will also be inside the WHA. Adjacent cleared land linked to a proposed cultural outside the WHA has been bought to Wooroonooran National Park walks - theatre, museum and shop. allow development of associated Palmerston section (QPWS) facilities such as a carpark and Clearing, upgrading and reopening the visitor centre. track from to North Hasties Swamp (QPWS) Johnstone Lookout will enable walkers to A bird hide has been enjoy a series of linked walks which offer built and a short walk is Privately Managed Walks spectacular views of the North Johnstone planned beside the There are many privately managed River Valley, numerous waterfalls, creeks swamp. guided walks offering chances to and swimming holes. The Palmerston view flora and fauna or learn about network offers walks from half an hour to local history and Aboriginal culture a full day and is a major walking attraction which are unavailable on public in the southern Wet Tropics. These walks walks. It is intended to liaise with have the potential to link with the private walk operators to include proposed long distance walks and their diverse guided walks within canopy walk in the area. the strategy. Barron Gorge National Park network (QPWS, Shire & Cairns City Councils) These walks offer opportunities for scenic views to Cairns and the coast, waterfalls, swimming holes and a variety of rainforest habitats. Some walks such as the Douglas Track and Smiths Track are currently in use. Others require upgrading and signage. Many of these walks have significant Aboriginal cultural associations as well as historical importance related to logging, mining and the building of the railway line.

4 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy Specific Walk Priorities

Lambs Head (QPWS) Walk networks Remote long walks Lambs Head is a day walk offering spectacular views over Lamb Range, Copperlode Dam and to Cairns and the Tully Gorge/Ravenshoe/South Johnstone Downey Creek Walk (QPWS) coast beyond. Vegetation includes well network (QPWS, Herberton, Cardwell, A 3 day walk linking Mena Creek and preserved stands of high altitude Johnstone & Eacham Shire Councils) South Johnstone which offers access to rainforest and orchids in close proximity The Heritage Trails Network, QPWS and waterfalls, swimming holes and various to massive boulders. There is a possibility Mamu people are currently investigating rainforest types. It forms part of the of creating a new loop track linking to the feasibility of a walking network in this Tully Gorge/Ravenshoe/South Johnstone and a larger walking region in order to highlight the Aboriginal network. network across to Lake Tinaroo. Aboriginal cultural and other historical heritage people have expressed concerns about values of the region. The area offers some Bluewater to Paluma (QPWS) walking in the area and their participation of the best examples of intact rainforest QPWS are currently repairing the access to in management would be essential. habitats in the Wet Tropics. There are also the Bluewater visitor site at the top of the numerous waterfalls, creeks and scenic range. This walk offers a long 2-3 day walk Overnight walks views. Local governments are keen to close to Townsville with a variety of participate in development of a linked terrain, vegetation types and scenic views. network of tracks to stimulate tourism and There are options for camping along the Bartle Frere East, West and Russell River economic growth for the various shires range and accommodation at Paluma. Circuit (QPWS) and towns such as Ravenshoe, Millaa There is potential to continue walking to This circuit is for experienced walkers and Millaa, Mena Creek Paluma Dam. offers overnight camping on the highest and Tully. mountain in Queensland where the weather is often wet and misty. Currently Cairns/Kuranda/Lamb Range network the two Bartle Frere sections suffer from (QPWS, Mareeba Shire & Cairns City Other walk priorities erosion and drainage problems. There is a Councils) need to repair and realign parts of the This network offers a variety of vegetation, track and provide better infrastructure at habitats and spectacular scenic and Bloomfield Catchment Area the campsite. Creation of a circuit along coastal views. The area is rich in Apart from the very short Bloomfield the Russell River would extend the walking Aboriginal culture and heritage and also (Wujal Wujal) Falls walk, no specific walks options here. has a history of logging and mining in have yet been identified for this region. some areas. The walks are close to major Traditional owners have expressed a wish population and tourist centres and can be to develop Aboriginal tourism and walking Goldfield Track easily combined with other tourist opportunities and to better manage those (QPWS, Cairns City Council) activities in the area. There is potential to visitors who are currently using The Goldfield Track is another of the few link with Lambs Head and as unmanaged walks in the area. managed overnight walks and is well used well, subject to addressing Aboriginal due to its proximity to Cairns. The walk concerns. traverses various rainforest habitats and Daintree & Mossman areas /Kirrama Range network includes groves of king ferns. A camping There is a demand from the tourism (QPWS) area is designated on the Mulgrave River. industry for long walks in the Daintree This network would include some The walk has erosion and drainage and Mossman areas. However, land Aboriginal tracks which the Girramay problems and large sections of the track managers have experienced difficulty in people are keen to re-establish for are along an old road. Rehabilitation of creating and maintaining any long walks Aboriginal use and guided walks some road sections to form a narrower in this area due to its steep terrain and (Djuburriny and Gayjil) as well as old track at the Goldsborough Valley end heavy rainfall. The area also contains roads which also have Aboriginal would improve the desired bushwalking significant Aboriginal sites. The area is significance such as Bilyana, Sullivans and experience. There is potential to link the currently the subject of negotiations Kents Tracks. The JCU hut could be used Goldsborough Valley end to walks on the between traditional owners and the State for overnight accommodation. Tableland. However, Aboriginal concerns Government. Potential walks have not yet must be addressed. been identified.

Cedar Bay South (QPWS, Private) Cedar Bay South has the potential to link with the Cedar Bay North walk. It offers walking and overnight camping in coastal areas inaccessible by road. Access from the main road to Cedar Bay needs to be negotiated.

Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 5 Information, education and promotion

Off site Key Actions Accessible information and promotional material will be provided to help people Off site ➣ Provide walkers, especially those choose walks which suit their abilities and planning to do longer routes, with ➣ Liaise with walkers, land managers and satisfy their needs. information about safety, minimal the tourism industry to collate a impact walking, climate, degree of This material will also be used as a database of consistent and difficulty, suitable gear and footwear and valuable management tool to distribute comprehensive walking information. walkers away from vulnerable or required experience. overcrowded areas and ensure they are ➣ Provide walking information and well prepared for safe walking. promotional material so that walkers can On site easily learn about the diversity of walks, ➣ Conduct an audit of current walks to select appropriate walks and prepare for identify the need for additional signs to On site factors such as weather and safety. Educational signs help walkers to provide clear directions and information understand and appreciate the natural ➣ Make information from the walks on distance, time, safety issues and and cultural aspects of the World Heritage database available for use in tourism required walker abilities. guide books, management information Area. ➣ Identify walks which need educational sheets and tourism brochures. It will also signs to explain their natural and cultural On site information and orientation signs be adapted for the internet to enable features. allow visitors to find the trailhead and tourists to search for particular walking ensure they are aware of the length and areas or themes within the Wet Tropics. ➣ Increase ranger presence on selected difficulty of the walk. walks. An example of how Tablelands walks can be promoted Time Taken Tablelands Features short (easy) medium (moderate) long (strenuous) and Themes 1 hr or less up to half day full day / overnight

Waterfalls Davies Creek, Nandroya Falls Windin Falls Emerald Creek, Millstream Falls… Lakes Lake Euramoo, Pelican Point Torpedo Bay Walk Circuit Lookouts Mt Edith Walk Mareeba Wetlands Nth Johnstone Lookout Lambs Head Trees Curtain Fig, Cathedral Fig Gadgarra Red Cedar Clohesy River Fig Mountain tops Mount Haig (B Road) Lambs Head Mt Baldy Bartle Frere West Aboriginal cultural Rainforest Wabunga Wayemba Rainforest interpretation Malanda Falls Rainforest Wongabel Botanical Walk Pelican Point Revegetation Walk Craters The Crater, Mobo Creek Wetlands/Birds Hasties Swamp Mareeba Wetlands Mareeba Wetlands Creeks & Rivers Davies Creek Kauri Creek Cochable Causeway Tully Weir Henrietta Creek to K Tree Adventure & recreation Mena Creek Bare Hill to Copperlode Dam Bartle Frere West Mt Edith (C Road)

6 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy Managing Assets

Construction Resources and Monitoring and maintenance benefits

The strategy establishes priorities across Infrastructure and facilities for walking Monitoring is necessary to regularly assess management agency boundaries for are often expensive and time consuming the condition of walks to construction and maintenance of a to build and maintain. However, walking maintain the desired network of walking tracks. brings significant economic benefits to walking experience. the region. It is This includes This involves an ongoing process to an important activity monitoring track resolve such issues as: for most visitors conditions, visitor • which walks need increased and locals numbers and behaviour, maintenance of tracks to resolve safety touring the vegetation damage, and environmental issues, Wet Tropics, wildlife disturbance and whether on Aboriginal concerns. • whether currently unmanaged walks commercial or should become actively managed, Monitoring track private trips. Direct conditions also • where new walking tracks need to be tourism use of the Wet requires attention to created, Tropics region is currently specific detail such as estimated to generate over • what are the desired standards for erosion sites, drainage $175 million per annum. construction and maintenance of each problems, unsafe or Total gross expenditure for track, damaged infrastructure the region (which includes and graffiti. • which tracks should be closed on a flow-on effects to the local seasonal or permanent basis. community) is estimated to be over Long term monitoring $750 million. of visitor perceptions and environmental Key Actions impacts is dealt with ➣ Bring currently managed walks up to in the Research desired standards as a highest priority. section. ➣ Adapt current standards of construction and maintenance to better deal with Wet Tropics environmental Key actions conditions. ➣ Ensure that expenditure on walks ➣ Determine an appropriate style of reflects the strategy’s guidelines and priorities for development and Key actions construction and maintenance to ➣ enhance each desired walking maintenance of walks. Train rangers and other walk managers to monitor desired settings. experience, taking into consideration ➣ Develop an asset management the cost and personnel required. This will include monitoring visitor approach to walking infrastructure to perceptions and behaviour as well as ➣ Reduce costs by coordinating the determine: the condition of tracks and assistance of local governments, • its present condition and value, infrastructure. commercial operators, bushwalkers, ➣ volunteer groups and employment and • costs to maintain and monitor Monitor at regular intervals, training programs to maintain or currently managed tracks to approved consistent with risk management and monitor particular tracks. standards, visitor use for each walk. This will often mean an increased ranger presence ➣ Ensure that the design and alignment • the cost of construction of new tracks along walks. of walking tracks reflects the desired and infrastructure. ➣ Develop rapid assessment experience and shows off appropriate ➣ Investigate appropriate ways of using features and themes rather than merely monitoring processes suitable to be private funds and commercial services undertaken by local rangers or walkers. following pre-existing roads and tracks. to enhance walk opportunities which ➣ Convert old roads which are do not lead to the public being ➣ Monitor visitor numbers and managed as walks to narrower tracks alienated from a public resource. behaviour at sites and relate them to and promote regrowth to rehabilitate adverse impacts to see if limits to ➣ Investigate appropriate contributions walker numbers may be necessary. the remainder of the road where from walkers and commercial operators practicable and affordable. through fees for particular walks such ➣ Use walkers, especially commercial ➣ Design campsites and provide as a canopy walk. tour operators, to help monitor both facilities to minimise maintenance and track conditions and walker adverse impacts. characteristics, satisfaction and needs.

Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 7 Three Steps for Managing Individual Walks

1. Classify 2. Establish desired 3. Create walk different tracks track settings Management plans

Management of each walk will be guided Each walk will be assessed to establish by a track classification system which settings which reflect the desired walking divides walks into five classes - two types experience. The Queensland Parks and Key actions of pathways, graded walks, rough tracks Wildlife Service and the Wet Tropics ➣ Develop walk management plans for and marked routes (refer to table on pages Management Authority have agreed to individual walks according to priorities. 10-11). These walk categories prescribe: adopt a common standard for walk Plans could include: settings. The Walking Strategy also • physical characteristics such as track includes an Aboriginal setting to provide width, surface, length and infrastructure, Visitor focused Aboriginal perspectives on walk • service standards such as maintenance management. The four setting categories information and monitoring requirements, are summarised below: • desired walk experience • walker safety, fitness and ability, • features and themes The natural setting includes all natural • information for walkers, both along • the natural, social and managerial elements such as vegetation, terrain, the walk and in visitor centres, books, settings of a walk. habitat and water quality as well as brochures and websites evidence of human effects on the Safety landscape (including the style of track). • links to other walks The track classification system also • walk type, length and degree of The social setting includes factors demonstrates that land managers are difficulty affecting walkers’ social experience such meeting walker demand by providing a • user preparation and fitness as remoteness or crowding, noise levels range of recreational and adventurous • promotional strategy and interactions with other people or walks with related challenges and risk • on and off site facilities and services activities. factors. Walkers must be informed and • access to the walk accept responsibility for the risks The managerial setting includes all associated with particular walks. For facilities and services, directly and Management focused instance, walkers would take a greater indirectly provided by information level of responsibility for their own safety management including the • track classifications (and variation on a remote marked route than on a type of walking track, between sections of the walk) popular boardwalk. maintenance standards, • natural, social and managerial settings education and signage. It • conservation and rehabilitation of the may include the presence track and environs of rangers for day to day • type of track construction management and ranger talks. • soil type • maintenance costs, needs, methods The Aboriginal style and schedule cultural setting • interpretation needs includes the • ranger presence Aboriginal history, • patterns and limits to walker use use, perceptions, cultural • priority of any proposed works associations and stories about • cost of necessary and desired works a walk. It would also link with • need for any rehabilitation work managerial settings when • regulatory requirements such as considering educational signs and permits provision of Aboriginal guides and talks. • infrastructure, campsites and site facilities • safety management • multiple use Key actions Key actions • monitoring and research needs ➣ Ensure rangers and other land ➣ Audit present settings. managers are informed about the use of Aboriginal cultural ➣ Establish and map the desired the track classification system. diversity of walking experiences and information ➣ Use the track classification system as their different natural, social, • traditional owners and the native title a guide to inform and justify decisions managerial and Aboriginal settings and representative body about appropriate risk management for characteristics. • Aboriginal history and information walks, rather than trying to eliminate ➣ Actively monitor settings to maintain • employment and participation in risks altogether. the desired walking experience. management • Aboriginal cultural heritage values which require conservation management 8 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy Two Examples: Smiths Track and Barron Falls Lookout Track class Walk Walk experience management (settings) plans

Smiths Track is a 7 kilometre bushwalk The track class will relate to the desired Walk management plans outline the full from Speewah to Kamerunga. walk experience and settings. managment regime for individual walks. It is classed as a rough track (see map for They enable managers to focus on specific For Smiths Track this will be in a very desired track classes). This means that it issues and variations along a walk to natural landscape with minor changes, should be a distinct track, but without complement the general management limited to a few places. There will be some hardened surfaces or major changes to the approach of the track class and settings. opportunities for solitude away from natural ground. Rough tracks are usually For both tracks this may include access to traffic noise, but some interaction with longer than five kilometres and can be the walks and information about them, other groups on the walk would be steep. Encounters with fallen debris and links to other walks and maintenance expected. There is a dependence on other obstacles can be expected. Rough costs and methods. outdoor skills. Facilities, signs and ranger tracks should be 500-900mm wide or less, presence are minimal. The plan for Smiths Track may include have only enough signs and facilities so details about specific features such as the that walkers can find and follow the track, Barron Falls Lookout will also be in a trees at Cadagi Corner, Aboriginal sites or and be safe enough to suit experienced natural environment, but close to historical sites. It may also deal with such walkers. They should be monitored about carparks, roads and facilities. Walkers can management issues as access from once a month and maintenance should be expect large numbers of visitors and high Kamerunga, the need for specific signs, by foot patrols using hand tools. levels of infrastructure. Educational and the use of Djabugay rangers to maintain directional signs will be frequent and there Barron Falls Lookout is a popular and monitor the track, safety at the will often be a ranger present. tourist boardwalk and canopy railway line crossing and conflicts of use walk leading down to a railway with mountain bikes. platform and lookout. It is For Barron Falls Lookout a walk classed as a pathway 1 which management plan may involve details of means it is a broad, hardened Aboriginal educational and warning signs, safety surface suitable for issues with the wheelchair access. setting railway platform Pathways are generally flat, and visitor less than 2 kilometres long management at and will be clear of The Aboriginal setting for both a newly vegetation. walks will incorporate opened walk. Interpretive and Aboriginal perspectives into directional signs can their management to be frequent and complement the conservation facilities may and social values of the other include lookouts, settings. This includes factors seats and rails. such as aligning the route Pathways should be to avoid significant safe for cultural sites in the inexperienced area and using walkers and Aboriginal names inspected regularly, for various sections possibly using of the track. motorised transport.

Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 9 Track Classification System

Service Standards & Settings Pathway 1 Pathway 2

Track Formation & Surface Broad hard surfaced track suitable for Generally a modified hardened surface, wheelchair use or people with little well maintained. mobility.

Track Width (Approx.) 1200mm or wider. 1200mm or wider.

Gradient/Steps Flat, steps allowed only with alternative Generally flat, some use of steps. ramp.

Signs Signs for management and education may Signs for management and education may be used frequently. be used frequently.

Infrastructure Facilities along the track may include Facilities along the track may include lookout platforms, seats and rails. lookout platforms, seats and rails.

Campsites Any campsites will be designated and Any campsites will be designated and have toilet facilities. have toilet facilities.

Vegetation Clearance Vegetation should be kept clear of total Vegetation should be kept clear of total track width and above head height. track width and above head height. Fallen vegetation to be cleared as soon Fallen vegetation to be cleared as soon as possible. as possible.

Monitoring Regular inspection. Regular inspection.

Safety & Risk Management Safety standards to suit all members of Safety standards to suit all able bodied the public. members of the public.

Maintenance Style Machinery and vehicles may be used for Machinery and small vehicles may be maintenance and patrol. used for maintenance and patrol.

Biophysical (Natural) Setting Natural setting, always close to roads, Natural setting, generally close to roads, carparks and facilities. carparks and facilities.

Social Setting Large numbers of visitors can expect Large numbers of visitors can expect frequent encounters with others. frequent encounters with others. Possibly suitable for other activities such Possibly suitable for other activities such as cycling. as cycling.

Managerial Setting High level of facilities, track infrastructure, High level of facilities, track infrastructure, interpretation, with ranger presence interpretation, with ranger presence sometimes. Well signposted and sometimes. Well signposted and promoted. promoted.

Distance Usually less than 2km. Usually less than 2km.

Examples Marrdja Boardwalk Jindalba Boardwalk

Cathedral Fig Tree Licuala Rainforest Circuit

Dubuji Boardwalk Malanda Falls Rainforest Walk 10 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy Track Classification System

Graded Track Rough Track Marked Route

Generally a modified surface, sections Generally distinct, but without hardened Limited modification to the natural may be hardened. Kept mostly clear of surfaces or major modifications to the environment, therefore limited clearance intrusions and obstacles. ground. Encounter with fallen debris and along track. Encounter with fallen debris other obstacles likely. and other obstacles likely.

900 to 1200mm. 500mm to 900mm. Approximately 500mm.

May exceed 1:10 for short sections, steps May be steep, steps provided only for May encounter steep natural gradients may be common. environmental and maintenance and unmodified surfaces. considerations.

Signs and track markers may be used for Minimal signs for track marking, Limited signs, mostly for management direction. Limited education signs. management and directional purposes. purposes.

Facilities generally not provided except Facilities generally not provided except Facilities generally not provided. for specific safety and environmental for specific safety and environmental considerations or to maximise considerations or to maximise scenic views. scenic views.

Any campsites will be designated and Campsites may be designated and Campsites may be designated and have toilet facilities. facilities provided where needed due facilities provided where needed due to environmental issues or high to environmental issues or high walker numbers. walker numbers.

Vegetation should be cleared for total Vegetation should be cleared for track Vegetation should be cleared to enable track width. Fallen vegetation to be width. Clear track only after inspections markers to be visible. Clear track only cleared regularly. or major weather disturbances. after inspections or major weather disturbances.

Regular inspection. Infrequent inspection. Infrequent inspection.

Safety standards to suit fit and healthy Safety standards to suit fit and Safety standards to suit very fit and members of the public. experienced walkers. experienced walkers.

Machinery and small vehicles may be Foot patrols and hand tool maintenance. Foot patrols and hand tool maintenance. used for maintenance and patrol.

Natural setting, usually remote from road. Highly natural setting remote from road. Highly natural setting remote from road.

Users can expect regular encounters with Users can expect frequent opportunities Users can expect frequent opportunities others. for solitude with some encounters from for solitude with few encounters from others. Not suitable for other activities. others. Not suitable for other activities.

Track infrastructure at appropriate sites Track infrastructure only at appropriate Little if any track infrastructure apart from for interpretation or safety reasons. Well sites for safety such as bridges or markers. Little signposted. Promotion to signposted and promoted. lookouts, for example. Little signposted. include safety and minimal impact Promotion to include safety and minimal walking information. impact walking information.

Usually 1km to 5km. Usually longer than 5km. Usually longer than 5km.

Nandroya Falls Circuit Smiths Track Bartle Frere East and West

Babinda Boulders - Devil’s Pool Walk Lambs Head Bluff Track

Wallaman Falls Rock Pools Track Dalrymple Gap Track Sullivans Track Wet Tropics Walking Strategy 11 Implementation

Coordination Funding Evaluation and review The Wet Tropics Management Authority, Progress on actions will be dependent on The implementation of the Walking QPWS and local government will available funding. The implementation Strategy will be reviewed annually. The implement most of the strategy’s actions. process will be flexible and coordinate review will be the basis for development of A Walking Advisory Group, made up of available funds between management annual works programs for walks in the representatives from stakeholder groups, agencies to achieve the aims of the Wet Tropics region. will provide expert advice to land strategy. The strategy will managers about the strategy’s provide a sound basis for Setting walk priorities implementation. Community advisory seeking further funding for Land managers will allocate available groups will enhance communication with priority needs. funding and resources to meet the the public about walking issues. priorities of the strategy to: • enhance the diversity of walks available throughout the Wet Tropics, Aboriginal participation • promote safe, enjoyable walking, Rainforest Aboriginal people will be consulted when setting priorities and • ensure the environment and making decisions about particular walks. cultural landscape are protected, Aboriginal people will also be consulted • encourage Aboriginal about walks on their country as part of a participation in tourism and broader discussion about their land. management, • enhance regional economic opportunites.

Priorities to be commenced in the first year

Walk diversity Walk information Cooperative management ➣ Assess the feasibility of and develop ➣ Collect walking information and make it ➣ Coordinate communication and actions additional walks needed to provide available to help people find walks to suit between government land managers. diversity (see the map for potential walks their needs and abilities. ➣ Establish a Walking Advisory Group and and proposals for longer walks). ➣ Provide walk information signs to make community advisory groups. ➣ Talk with managers of private walks to walks safe and easy to find. ➣ Consult with Aboriginal people see if they want their walks to be included regarding individual walks and regional in the strategy. ➣ Identify walks which need more educational signs. planning. Individual walk Walk construction and Research and monitoring management maintenance ➣ Develop a visitor monitoring system and ➣ Ensure rangers are informed about the trial at selected sites. track classification system and how to ➣ Maintain or upgrade high priority ➣ Undertake a measure and monitor settings. managed walks to desired standards. demand study ➣ Complete an audit of settings for ➣ Research and develop guidelines for for walking by priority walks. adapting construction and maintenance both visitors standards to suit the Wet Tropics. and the local ➣ Design walk management plans, community. concentrating on those walks with issues which need resolving promptly.

12 Wet Tropics Walking Strategy