Mt Warning ‘remains open for tourism’
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and tourism groups, Tweed Tourism and the Rainforest Way, agree that Mt Warning (Wollumbin) remains open for tourism.
Both groups support the new sign at the base of Mt Warning as a step forward in recognising the importance of the mountain to the Bundjalung people, and in promoting the region’s cultural, as well as natural significance.
NPWS Regional Manager Mark Johnston said that the NPWS has been working with the local Aboriginal community for several years to increase Indigenous involvement and promote awareness of cultural issues.
“One agreed action that has come from this consultation has been to erect a sign at the base of the mountain asking people to consider not climbing to the summit as a mark of respect for Aboriginal traditional law and customs,” he said.
“This is the same message for visitors to Uluru National Park, where there has been an increase in visitors to the park since the Aboriginal significance began to be promoted.”
Commercial tourism operators and other tourism groups have been informed about the sign prior to its being erected.
Chairman of Tweed Tourism, Gary Matthews, said that he agrees wholeheartedly with the recognition of the significance of the site.
“The sign encourages people to respect the site and supports Tweed Tourism’s desire to promote the cultural heritage aspects of tourism in the Tweed,” Mr Matthews said.
Executive officer for the Rainforest Way, Robyn Rae, said that the touring route encourages visitors to the region to enjoy the splendid views of Wollumbin from the road, rather than sending more visitors to areas that are already close to capacity.
Mr Johnston said that there is no intention to ban climbing on the mountain.
“There is a plan of management in place for Mt Warning which states that a walking track will continue to be maintained,” Mr Johnston said.
“We have had a lot of positive feedback from visitors to the national park since the sign went up. People are pleased to be informed of the significance of the mountain.”
