A track within the Coochin Hills section, Glass House Mountains National Park, is temporarily closed to help protect the surrounding forest and heathlands for future times from a potentially devastating soil-based disease.

The track on the western peak and saddle section of Coochin Hills is temporarily closed following the discovery of Phytophthora cinnamomi in the park, which has the potential to cause dieback for some species of native plants.

Phytophthora cinnamomi is a species of water mould, often referred to as a microscopic fungal-like organism, that lives in soil and is spread by the movement of infected soil carried on shoes, machines and other equipment or plants.

Phytophthora affects plants by attacking the root system and therefore decreasing the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. 

Once established, Phytophthora cannot be eradicated and there is no cure.

Visitors to the Glass House Mountains National Park can help protect the park by following some simple tips:

1. Clean footwear and equipment before you visit
2. Use boot-washing stations where available to clean footwear and equipment (such as walking poles and pram wheels) when going in and out of the park
3. Avoid going off designated walking tracks, and do not enter areas affected by closures
4. Never assume anywhere is disease free
5. Keep a spare set of shoes and a cleaning kit in your vehicle
6. Purchase gear that is easy to clean

With clean footwear, visitors can help slow the spread of Phytophthora throughout the park and minmise the chance of Phytophthora infecting plants in other natural areas. 

Please visit this park's page on the department's website for alternative nearby park attractions and experiences.