Major environmental damage caused by 4WDers

You know how there’s always a bad apple in a crate of good fruit? It’s a bit like that in the adventure space. You’ve got wheelers and outdoor enthusiasts who have an admiration for our country and a love and respect for nature. Then you’ve got those who wreak havoc and give the rest of us a bad name. Major environmental damage was recently caused by two 4WDers who were caught illegally driving through a protected wetland area in North Queensland.

What happened?

On February 4th 2023, two men were among 11 people who unlawfully entered a restricted zone in the Pinnacles Reserve, near Townsville. This also included two children. As a result of heavy rain, their six vehicles became bogged. Thus, they abandoned the vehicles and trekked through water. They then alerted emergency services who sent down water rescue crews and a helicopter to get them out of there.

Image sourced via 9News. Supplied: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

Damage was left behind

Naturally the group did return to collect their vehicles. However, what was left behind from the ordeal was rubbish such as rum cartons, and damage to the environment and the firebreak. According to Senior Conservation Officer Craig Dunk this significant damage to the reserve will cost about $50,000 to repair. Money that could have been better spent elsewhere, if it were not being used to mop up the errors of this group.

Aerial photos that were taken after the vehicles were bogged show vegetation that’s been flattened and/or ripped out from the ground by the drivers. As well as gaping holes in the ground, up to 600mm deep, caused by the vehicles spinning wheels in the wet ground. 

As a result, two drivers have been fined $1437 each.

Why are we yarning about this?

We’re passionate about outdoor exploration and we love this country we call home. In order to continue having access to our outdoor playground for many years to come, it’s important you educate yourself on how to behave appropriately. It’s a collective responsibility in our community to keep the parks and the environment in their original form. As well as to remind others of 4WD etiquette wherever necessary. Please remember to only drive in the areas that you’re legally permitted to. Pay attention to signage and obey the rules that are set in place. They’re there for a reason after all! It’s also imperative to stick to designated tracks so you don’t continue to widen them.

As always, watch the weather, let others know where you’re headed, check the forecast and know the ground you’re about to drive on before you get there. It’s always a good idea to avoid muddy areas as getting bogged is pretty much a given. In torrential rain, the chances are even higher. So you get the picture. If you are in a situation where you require recovery, ensure you have the appropriate gear and knowledge to get yourself out of a bind.