Petition

The Petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the
attention of the House the threatened loss of horse riding enthusiasts'
rights to ride horses in Mapleton Forest. The community is concerned that
the loss of reasonable access by horse riders to the Mapleton Forest may
result in:
1. Horse riders being forced to ride on gazetted roads, which will create
safety risks to both riders and motorists.
2. The adverse effects of the loss of revenue currently generated by this
growing and valuable industry.
3. The possible breakdown of the partnership between the State Government
and horse riding enthusiast in their role as guardians of our forests.
Horseriders using forestry areas are consistent monitors of forest tracks
and fire breaks.

We strongly believe that the community is best served by achieving a
balance between conservation, recreational use and community safety.

Your petitioners therefore request the House to make provision in the
proposed new tenure for Mapleton Forest Reserve to have some of the
already existing fire trails (approximately 2% of the forest) set aside
as Conservation Park Corridors. By so doing 98% of Mapleton Forest would
become National Park and horse riders will be able to ensure that fire
tracks remain open and preserve the safety and livelihood of the
surrounding community.