State Government rangers will set up camp on the iconic environmental haven Dunk Island tomorrow to begin the critical works to get the area's internationally-renowned walking tracks re-opened.

Environment Minister Vicky Darling said the island off Mission Beach and Tully had remained open but its popular walking tracks through national park had remained closed since the devastation wrought by Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasi.

"But we are determined that Dunk's national parks will be ready for tourists and daytrippers," Ms Darling said.

"Dunk has one of the few remaining national parks to remain closed since Cyclone Yasi swept through Northern Queensland, with most of the others opening in a relatively short time after the event.

"But Dunk took a big hit and the damage to the walking tracks through the national park was extensive.

"Today Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service officers will begin the extensive task of starting to clear these tracks and rebuild them to get them back in good and safe working condition in time for the last quarter of the year and the tourist season."

Responsibilities for repairs on Dunk Island are shared between QPWS, the Dunk Island resort owners and the Cassowary Coast Council.

Ms Darling said the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service had responsibility for the main walking track which stretched from near the island's resort to Mount Kootaloo.

"The QPWS rangers will be on the island tomorrow (Friday 5 August) to begin "flagging" the walking track in preparation for clearing and surveying the level of damage.

"Early next week, they intend to transport contractors to the island to assist with clearing the track of trees and debris.

"It's anticipated this work will be completed within about 5 weeks.

"Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt has been a great champion in getting this work underway."

Ms Jarratt said the works were great news for the island and surrounding communities.

"It's no secret that the entire north has continued to do it tough in the fallout from Cyclone Yasi but we are determined that we will continue to rebuild vital infrastructure like these walking tracks," Ms Jarratt said.

Environment

The Honourable Vicky Darling

04/08/2011