Lake Lenthall to close for controlled cultural burn

The recreation area at Lake Lenthall will be closed from June 10 to 14 for a controlled cultural burn of native vegetation spanning approximately 10 hectares.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Michelle Byrne said the burn is necessary to reduce the risk of bush-fire around critical dam infrastructure.

“From June 10 – 14, the recreational area at Lake Lenthall will be off-limits to the public to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. This includes all camping, fishing and other recreational activities,” she said.

“During this period, the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) will conduct a cultural burn in collaboration with the Butchulla and Kabi Kabi traditional owners.

“In previous years, we have conducted standard controlled burns, which cleared all vegetation except for large trees.

“This year, we are taking a different approach by working with BMRG to reduce fuel loads around our infrastructure, aiming to minimise the impact of future fires.

“We support this partnership and look forward to enhancing our understanding of indigenous fire management techniques for future land management.”

Lake Lenthall is a popular recreational facility known for its camping, boating and fishing.

The lake is also the water supply for Hervey Bay and surrounding areas, holding 28,500 million litres at full capacity.

Cr Byrne said the closure was subject to favourable weather conditions necessary for the controlled burn.

More information about Lake Lenthall, including the rules around camping, boating and fishing is available here - https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/lake-lenthall