Owners of Australia Zoo, the Irwin family, are trying to have Bertiehaugh Road closed. Also known as Stones Crossing loop road, this road traverses part of the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve. It’s accessed by 4WD only and serves as a shortcut between Weipa and Bramwell Station. An official application to close the Stones Crossing loop road has been lodged by Silverback Properties.
The locals and the adventurers will be impacted
Given that the track also offers an alternate route to or from this part of Cape York, the closing of the track means tourists will be unable to expand their 4WD adventures. Tourists will be upset at the lack of adventure opportunities. However, it will also affect locals who live in the region. Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott said, “For locals, the Bertiehaugh Track is an important shortcut from Weipa to the Northern Peninsula area of the Cape. With fuel prices climbing higher, any savings for local commuters will be of significant benefit.”
First Nations Communities are opposing
Since 4WDers began using the track, the Irwin family has attempted to have the road closed through their company Silverback Properties Pty Ltd. There’s been opposition from locals and the Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance. This is because it’s considered a vital connection between local First Nations communities.
Mayor Robbie Sands, of Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council said “The road is a valuable link for families travelling between Old Mapoon and New Mapoon to maintain cultural and social connections.” Mayor Robbie Sands, the Chair of the Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance, continued on to say “this is ignored by vested interests seeking to close the road.”
The Irwins are concerned for the area
The Irwins are fighting to have the road closed due to concerns that it will lead to thousands of people trespassing on the reserve. They’re worried about more fires that will lead to habitat loss, and increased management costs. Although these concerns are valid, The Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance assured Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, in a letter, that they’re willing to work with Australia Zoo. Together, they would ensure appropriate protection, interpretation and maintenance to preserve the environment.
A decision is likely to be made in early 2023.
