Prospecting is a cherished tradition woven into the very fabric of Australian history, harking back to the days of early colonization. It played a pivotal role in shaping the economy and culture of the nation, with towns like Gympie forever etched in our collective memory as the town that saved Queensland through the discovery of gold.

Many hobby prospectors today are retired couples, who have dedicated their lives to working tirelessly, paying taxes, and contributing positively to their communities. Yet, prospecting is not exclusive to retirees; it encompasses individuals of varying ages and backgrounds who share a passion for discovering natural treasures and reliving the past.

Currently, recreational activities such as bike riding, motorcycle riding, bushwalking, and bird watching are permitted within the state forests of Queensland, yet prospecting remains oddly relegated to exclusion apart from a few small areas which are gradually being overtaken by commercial mining enterprises. This disparity denies hobby prospectors the same privileges and experiences afforded to others who enjoy the state's natural beauty.

We call upon the Honourable Dale Last, Minister of Natural Resources and Mines,  and the Honourable Andrew Powell, Minister of Parks and Recreation, to  rectify this oversight and permit hobby prospectors the right to access state forests. By opening these public lands, prospectors would be able to freely traverse and camp within the state forests as they are able to in Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia as they engage in their beloved hobby.

Allowing access to state forests for prospecting would not only preserve a slice of heaven for hobbyists but would also uphold our country's and state's legacy in prospecting as a proud tradition. Granting this permission guarantees a balanced and equitable use of our shared lands, reflecting fair treatment of all recreational pursuits.

Join us in urging Ministers Last and Powell to embrace this opportunity for inclusivity and historical acknowledgement by opening Queensland's state forests to hobby prospectors. Sign this petition to voice your support for the revival and continuation of a time-honored practice that has greatly contributed to our history and identity.

resources@ministerial.qld.gov.au

environment@ministerial.qld.gov.au