The discussion about banning climbing on Mount Beerwah, the highest peak of the Glass House Mountains, has sparked a heated debate.
Speaking to Sky News Australia, Save Our Summits President Marc Hendrickx argued that preventing people from climbing the mountain would be equivalent to forcing personal beliefs on the wider population.
Respecting Cultural Beliefs, But Not at the Cost of Freedom
Hendrickx emphasized that while he respects the cultural beliefs of the Aboriginal community, he doesn’t think it’s fair to impose those beliefs on the rest of the country.
“If you’re a member of an Aboriginal community and you believe that it’s culturally unsafe to climb, I think that’s fair enough,” he said.
“But the idea that you’re forcing those beliefs on the rest of the country is simply wrong and something that we need to fight against.”
The Importance of National Parks and Summits
Hendrickx also highlighted the significance of national parks and summits in promoting tourism and allowing people to enjoy the great outdoors.
“Climbing and adventure activities in our national parks form really the bedrock of the reason that those national parks exist,” he said.
“Without that, Australia wouldn’t have the tourism industry we have for instance.”
A Great Example: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Hendrickx cited the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park as a prime example of a tourism hotspot that allows people to enjoy the natural wonders of Australia.
“In terms of the mountains, there’s nothing better than spending the day walking up to the summit, challenging yourself, with company, with friends or just doing it solo… bringing your kids up there, and really enjoying and appreciating the natural wonders that they provide,” he said.
No Plans to Close Mount Beerwah
Despite the rumors, Environment Minister Andrew Powell has ruled out any plans to permanently close Mount Beerwah or the surrounding peaks.
“There will be no permanent closure of Mount Beerwah or any of the surrounding peaks,” he said in a video message on Facebook.
The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation also confirmed that there are no plans to permanently close the mountain, and that short-term closures are only implemented for safety reasons or maintenance.
What Do You Think?
The debate about Mount Beerwah has sparked a lot of discussion, with many people weighing in on the issue. Whether you’re a fan of climbing or just enjoy the great outdoors, it’s clear that national parks and summits play a vital role in Australian culture.
What do you think about the issue?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!