A targeted compliance blitz has put illegal glow worm tour operators on notice, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) warning that unlicensed guiding in Springbrook National Park will not be tolerated.
Springbrook National Park is not only home to ancient rainforests and jaw-dropping waterfalls; it's also home to thousands of glow worms.
Glow worm tours are growing in popularity in Springbrook, particularly at Natural Bridge as the unique creatures light up the cave ceiling after sunset.
As demand for glow worm experiences grows, so too has the number of illegal operators attempting to cash in.
Illegal tour operators diminish the experience for visitors, impact local tourism businesses and disrespect the protected area.
QPWS led a targeted compliance operation, alongside the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) on 21 February and engaged with dozens of legal and illegal operators.
Compliance Optimisation Manager Michael Devery said regular compliance was essential to protect and preserve the natural values of the World Heritage-listed area.
"We're here to protect Springbrook National Park, including the resident glow worms, and any visitors who want to see these native creatures in the wild," Mr Devery said.
"Glow worms showcase how incredible Queensland's natural environment is, with fireflies and iridescent mushrooms often coming together to create a breathtaking lightshow.
"Taking a tour with a qualified guide allows nature lovers to bask in this beauty, learn about the ecology of glow worms and the significance of the surrounding ecosystem.
"These licenced guides follow the strict environmental obligations outlined in their permits, which is particularly important in an area as significant as Springbrook National Park.
"Unlicenced tours are a serious problem that not only negatively impact visitors and local tourism businesses – they're harmful to the environment.
"Conducting a tour without a valid permit is an offence, and we're regularly conducting compliance patrols and targeted operations to enforce the law.
"So, if you're an illegal operator, let this be your reminder: if we catch you, we'll direct you to leave and you can be charged with a maximum penalty of $27,538 – not to mention none of your guests will be able to see the glow worms."
TMR Transport Inspectors were requested to assist by performing vehicle inspections to ensure that tour operators had the required approvals and were compliant with all legislative requirements.
In Queensland, any driver who operates a vehicle providing a public passenger service which includes most tour services, must hold a valid Driver Authorisation (DA) issued by TMR.
QPWS is urging anyone booking a glow worm tour to check that the operator holds the appropriate permit before finalising their booking.
