Temporary Closure of Public Access to Camooweal Sites

Public access to the banks of the Georgina River, and Lakes Francis and Canellan, in Camooweal will be temporarily closed for a period of six months, including the rest of the 2023 tourist season, with the closure to come into effect in the coming weeks.

The decision to close the sites for camping is to protect cultural heritage and was made following discussions held between Mount Isa City Council and representatives of the sites’ lessees and Native Title claimant holders.

Public access to the sites will remain open to all permanent Camooweal residents for the purpose of fishing and water activities, and for people who hold the appropriate permits under the Stock Route Management Act 2002.

Appropriate signage will be installed at the entrances of the three sites – the Barkly Highway, Urandangi Road, and Highlands Plains Road – advising of the temporary public access closure, with the lessees to install fencing and gates at the entrances.

Other than rubbish bins, there are no other amenities in the camping areas. Council collects rubbish from the Georgina River site each week.

Mayor Danielle Slade said Council appreciated the sites are popular with campers every tourist season, however, the temporary closure was important in order for the cultural heritage sites to be assessed and processes put in place for their preservation.

“Council apologises for the inconvenience the temporary public access closure may cause and thanks people for their patience and understanding while this matter is assessed,” Cr Slade said.

“Hopefully the temporary closure will have a positive effect on businesses in Camooweal, with campers and caravanners instead staying in the town’s caravan park.”