Para Wirra Conservation Park

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (10 August 2017).

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Climate Change): I have been advised:

1. Camp fires are permitted in 140 conservation parks outside of the fire danger season. This information is available on the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources' (DEWNR) website: http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/files/sharedassets/parks/dewnr-park-fire-restrictions-2016-17.pdf

2. DEWNR's local rangers will include monitoring of fire rings in their compliance for both the Para Wirra and Onkaparinga camp sites. The issue of wood collection in and around camp sites is one that will be considered as part of compliance planning and communications with strong messaging proposed, on signs and in web based information.

3. The proposed introduction of camp fires as part of the camping experience to be offered in Para Wirra Conservation Park will include discussion with the CFS.

As with all other parks, camp fires would only be permitted outside of the fire season during the milder months of the year. It is proposed that camp fires are only permitted in small fire pits with lockable lids so they cannot be used during the fire season, and the pits are located on hardened rather than grassy surfaces.

4. To assist with the management of camping and increased visitation expected at Para Wirra Conservation Park and other parks five new rangers have been employed in the region. In addition, in 2017-18 DEWNR will again employ seasonal fire staff to implement fire management programs which include fuel reduction work, conducting patrols during the fire season and fire response.