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QUEENSLAND Mount Walsh National Park Steep forested slopes, sheltered gullies, rugged ridge lines and mountain areas with spectacular exposed granite outcrops and cliffs support an amazing diversity of vegetation. Mt Walsh and The Bluff Mount at the northern end of the park are prominent landmarks in the Biggenden area. Mt Walsh National Park traverses the Coast Range, covering an area of 5240 ha and rising to 703m above sea level. Access The main visitor access is about 2km east of Biggenden, along the Biggenden - Maryborough Road. Turn into the National Park Road and follow the signs for approximately 5.4km to a council barbecue, shelter shed and amenities. An unmarked 300m trail from the council picnic area offers day visitors the opportunity to walk through open eucalypt forest to a rocky creek gully lined with dry rainforest. Views of the Bluff Mount, a spectacular granite bluff, can be observed from the trail. Camping There are no camping facilities on the park although remote camping is allowed in most areas. Camping permits must be obtained from QPWS Maryborough prior to visiting the park. Bushwalking Due to the rugged nature of the park and lack of reliable water, extended walks should only be attempted by fit, experienced and well prepared walkers. Crossing rocky outcrops should only be attempted in dry weather conditions. Rainfall makes the steep upper slopes and smooth granite rock slabs hazardous. A high risk of injury exists in wet, unfavourable conditions. Visitors use during wet conditions easily destroys fragile vegetation on exposed rock pavements and increases erosion. Minimal Impact Bushwalking When bushwalking and camping in remote parts, it is important to protect the park and ensure enjoyable visits for others by bushwalking with minimal impact. Use fuel stoves only - fires are not permitted. Bury all human waste (using a hand trowel) at least 100m from water courses and campsites. Travel in groups of at least two and no more than six. Larger groups may have impacts on the surrounding environment and disturb other park users. Other adventure activities such as rock climbing and abseiling in remote sections of the park should only be attempted in consultation with the Ranger in Charge, Maryborough. Water is generally unavailable on the park so take at least 2-3 litres for each person for a half day walk. Avoid the midday sun. Protect yourself with light clothing, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Before setting out tell a responsible person of your planned itinerary and ensure that they will alert authorities should you fail to return on time. Wear sturdy footwear with good ankle support. Be aware that natural weathering processes, including cracking and peeling of large rock slabs, can result in loose and dislodged rocks on the upper slopes. Always carry a field first aid kit and emergency food supples. Vegetation The park's spectacular landscape supports nine vegetation communities, ranging from vineforest in the moist protected gullies, through open eucalypt forests to scrubland and heath on rock pavements. Wildlife This diverse habitat is refuge for a large variety of fauna, including some rare and threatened species such as the powerful owl and grey goshawk. You may see peregrine falcons soaring overhead and lace monitors sunning on rock pavements. Caring for Mt Walsh By following these simple rules, you can conserve Mt Walsh for yourself and future generations. Leave pets at home - domestic animals are not permitted. Leave animals and plants where you find them - do not interfere with the natural surroundings. Fires are not permitted - use only fuel or gas stoves Take your rubbish home - if you can carry it in, then you can carry it out. For further information and camping permits contact: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Cnr. Alice Street and Lennox Street PO Box 101 MARYBOUROUGH QLD 4650 Telephone (07) 4121 1800 Facsimile (07) 4121 1650