Boardwalk first for The Proposition gorge

WHILE many of us shy away from physical labour outdoors during the summer months, spare a thought for Bladensburg National Park rangers Barbara and Andrew Kingston who will soon be toiling in the heat as they undertake a number of capital works projects in the park.

With temperatures steadily creeping up to 40 degrees in the shade and as the last of the seasonal tourists drive on by, the Kingstons will now take advantage of this quiet period to evaluate the previous season and look to improve the park for next year’s visitors.

Bladensburg National Park features a variety of points of interest, including the popular Scrammy Gorge, with its dramatic colourations, steep cliffs and elderly red gums.

But the gorge's unstable cliff edges have been a growing concern for the rangers, which were recently confirmed by an expert.

"Scrammy Gorge is quite close to the current car park," Mr Kingston said.

"The rock ledge is undermined; there is nothing under it.
"People just walk around the area without realising what’s under their feet.
"Recently the geotech came out and had a look and reported that the area is fairly dangerous."

By next season Mr and Mrs Kingston hope to have the $65,000 State Government funded project completed.

"The money was sourced to create a car park and a six-kilometre walkway to the gorge.
"Typically, National Parks in Western Queensland don’t feature walking tracks.
"But because Bladensburg is only 15 kilometres from Winton, we have to cater for a different kind of visitor.
"Most other parks are isolated and attract more of your adventure-seeking tourist, but we are close to town and people in their Commodores or caravans often visit the park.
"These visitors will benefit from having a walking track available."

More information about Bladensburg National Park is available on 4657 1192 or from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Longreach office on 4652 7333.