Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Youth Affairs
The Honourable Meaghan Scanlon

Queenslanders are being encouraged to explore their own backyards these summer holidays and discover some of the lesser-known beauties within the state’s national parks and protected areas.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) was launching a competition on its official social media channels where people could share their favourite hidden gems within Queensland parks, with $2,000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

“Queensland’s national parks aren’t just helping to protect our environment, they’re the perfect place for fun, affordable, family adventures,” Minister Scanlon said.

“It’s why the Palaszcuzk Government is investing a $262.5 million to expand and create new national parks – this biggest investment in this state’s history.

“We’re expecting more than 140,000 overnight visitors and about 24,000 active vehicle access permit holders across the busy summer period at the usual famous places like K’gari, the Daintree and Gondwana.

“But we want Queenslanders to go beyond the family favourites and learn more about the lesser-known pristine spots in our parks.

“We want you to help find our #HiddenGems and go into the draw to win 1 of 10 $200 gift vouchers.

All you have to do to enter the competition is share images and stories about the many hidden gems in our national parks via the comments section on specific competition posts that will be posted on the Queensland National Parks Facebook and Instagram pages.

The competition starts today and end on 18 December 2022. Prize winners will be contacted directly by the Department of Environment and Science.

Minister Scanlon said in addition to record investment to expand the national park network, the Palaszczuk Government was also investing upgrades and maintenance for its hidden gems and well-known places.

“Here at Bunyaville, we’re investing more than $620,000 to upgrade the day use area including the carpark and picnic spots.

“Some of our other hidden gem area we are upgrading include Kroombit National Park, where we have committed $743,000 for new visitor facilities and Burrum Coast National Park where we have allocated $600,000 for the upgrade of beach camping facilities.

“These capital works ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience in our parks, and that our uncovered gems are well preserved for generations to come.

“I encourage everyone to get out and experience everything our parks have to offer, and maybe even uncover their own hidden gem.”

Be sure to follow the Queensland National Parks Facebook and Instagram pages for the #HiddenGems competition and much more.

https://www.facebook.com/qldnationalparks

https://www.instagram.com/qldparks/

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078