An infamous mountain that has been the scene of multiple rescue operations will stay open permanently despite rumours it will be closed to hikers to protect its Indigenous heritage.
Queensland Environment Minister Andrew Powell denied recent reports that Mount Beerwah, one of the state’s Glass House Mountains, could be closed due to Indigenous cultural concerns.
“Let me be clear, this was a draft briefing note from three years ago under the previous Labor government. Under my watch, there will be no permanent closures of Mount Beerwah, of any of the peaks in the Glass House Mountains, indeed of any of our national parks,” Powell told 7NEWS.com.au.
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The Minister emphasised the State Government’s commitment to encouraging people to enjoy Queensland’s natural landscapes.
“We are a government who want people to get out and responsibly enjoy our natural landscapes. We will make sure you have that opportunity,” Powell added.
The comments come amid reports Mount Beerwah, a sacred site for the Jinibara people, the traditional custodians of the Glass House Mountains, would be closed permanently.
The Jinibara people have long called for the peak to be closed to climbers, citing its cultural significance and safety concerns.
Powell dismissed the reports as “factually inaccurate, misleading, and disrespectful to the Jinibara and Kabi Kabi people” and insisted that there are no plans for a permanent ban on public access.
He clarified short-term closures may still be necessary, particularly during wet weather, rockfall events, or at the request of emergency services.
Mount Beerwah is a notorious site for hikers.
In January, a young man in his 20s was injured in a fall on the mountain, leading to a multi-agency rescue operation.
And in November 2024, a 20-year-old hiker went missing after sending a photo from the summit, initiating a four-day search that tragically ended with the discovery of his body.
“We welcome the visitors who attend Glass House Mountains National Park and request they adhere to park signage to ensure their visit is safe and enjoyable while looking after these unique landscapes,” Powell said.
A growing number of Australia’s most beautiful summits have been closed to the public in recent years.
The closure of Wollumbin/Mount Warning in New South Wales reflects similar concerns about cultural respect.
The Githabul people, the traditional custodians of the site, had long campaigned for its closure, citing its sacred significance.
In 2022, the NSW government decided to permanently close the summit, a move welcomed by the Githabul.
While some hikers were disappointed, the closure aims to preserve the cultural integrity of the mountain, with plans for a new cultural tourism experience.
The debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing cultural heritage, public safety, and access to Queensland’s iconic natural landmarks.
