The island camping experience just isn’t complete without a crackling fire to sit around after a day of swimming, fishing, and sunshine. But there are some important do’s and don’ts when it comes to fire safety on the beach.
Here are some top tips for your next outdoor adventure in the Moreton Bay Region. Toasted marshmallows, anyone?
Firstly, it is important to check with your local environmental protection agency whether or not you can have a fire at your campsite. Additional fire bans or restrictions may also be in place, subject to current weather conditions.
In some beach and bush camping sites, there are designated campfire areas. These will be identifiable by rocks, poles or signage. Depending on the location, you could have to dig your own fire pit.
Tips on digging: Always dig away from vegetation, as this reduces the risk of fire spreading and preserves native flora. Preferably, use a space that is already being used as a campfire pit, or an area you can see has recently been used.
Many of the trees on sand islands are dependent on decaying vegetation, so please refrain from sourcing branches and kindling on-site. The rule of thumb is: bring your own firewood. This ensures that the vegetation and trees remain intact, so we can continue to enjoy and experience this amazing ecosystem.
Extinguishing a fire correctly and safely is just as important as choosing a site or selecting firewood. Rather than simply heaping sand onto embers, use the tried and tested ‘pour, stir and dirt’ method.
Pour: Fill a bottle or bucket with water and pour it over the fire
Stir: Add some sand or dirt and mix in with a shovel, scoop, or similar tool. Repeat this process until you can feel the heat has gone from the fire, and you can physically touch the pit (use caution and common sense where near a fire – hot or not)
Dirt: Once you are satisfied that the fire pit is cold, cover entirely with sand and/or dirt.
Beachside camping is a family-friendly activity where you can create lifelong memories and enjoy all the Moreton Bay Region has to offer. So, have fun and remember to do the right thing.
For the enjoyment of others and the sustainability of our treasured parks and wildlife, we ask that campers respect local ecosystems and tread softly when enjoying the outdoor experiences in the Moreton Bay Region. The ecology of our waterways and bushlands is important.
Video proudly supported by Austrack Campers, Australian Coastal and Marine Ecology (ACME), and Visit Moreton Bay Region. Spoken by Mat Davis of ACME.
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