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Dodonaea viscosa subsp. burmanniana (foreground left) Lord Howe IslandLord Howe Island’s Permanent Park Preserve (PPP) has officially re-opened its southern walking tracks, allowing visitors to access the entire park preserve again. This comes after a systematic search of the settlement track network in the PPP revealed no new myrtle rust infection points, indicating that the entire PPP can be safely reopened to visitors.

The success in treating known myrtle rust sites, coupled with extensive and ongoing monitoring and the establishment of hygiene stations and rigorous protocols, has ensured the safety of visitors to the PPP. LHIB and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff will remain at crucial track heads during high-traffic times to demonstrate and assist with correct hygiene protocols and inform walkers before they set out.

Additional hygiene stations have been set up at frequently visited locations throughout the island. Efforts are being made to enhance biosecurity measures with airlines and travel agents to minimize the risk of myrtle rust being transported onto the UNESCO World Heritage island in the future.

The re-opening of the PPP is a result of the combined effort of the community, visitors, LHIB, NPWS, and Lord Howe Island Tourism, who have cooperated to protect the unique values of Lord Howe Island. It is a testament to the commitment and dedication of all parties involved in preserving the natural beauty of this stunning island.

Visitors to Lord Howe Island can now once again fully experience the unique flora and fauna that make the island so special. From the endemic Lord Howe Island woodhen to the incredible coral reef system surrounding the island, Lord Howe is a natural wonder that must be seen to be believed.

If you’re planning a trip to Lord Howe Island, familiarize yourself with the hygiene protocols and biosecurity measures to ensure this beautiful island’s continued protection. And when you do visit, remember to take only memories and leave only footprints so that future generations can enjoy the same natural splendour that we do today.

 

 

 

Written by: Jill Walsh

 

 

 

 

 

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