KILLARNEY GLEN HAS PUBLIC AT HEART
THE future of a popular swimming hole remains in limbo almost a year after it was closed following a tragic drowning.
Large fences and signage block the entrance to Killarney Glen at Beechmont, but it hasn’t stopped lovers of the heart-shaped waterhole gaining access.
Dave Kan, the grandson of Killarney Glen’s original owner, Patrick Maurice Fitzgerald, said it was his grandfather’s wish that the area always be open to the public.
Mr Kan recently found his way into the waterhole to snap a stunning photo.
“Grandad always insisted Killarney Glen was far too beautiful to be locked away,” he said. “Christmas holidays there with Grandma and Grandad will always be some of my favourite childhood memories, when we’d swim in the creek and decorate a little hoop pine as our Christmas tree.
“After losing ownership of Killarney Glen, Grandad focused his efforts on keeping it open for as long as possible, so many more people could experience and enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest and serenity.”
The Australian Defence Force controls the area, which was shut down in December to allow for a management plan to be developed to ensure the safety of the attraction.
Almost 12 months later there is still no sign of a plan and the ADF have failed to answer questions regarding the area’s future.
Scenic Rim Council Mayor Greg Christensen said the council wanted it reopened, but was bound by the ADF.
“Council is continuing to work with stakeholders in relation to Killarney Glen. I have made my suggestions.”
Cr Christensen has suggested to the ADF that the area be turned into a national park, or that indigenous rangers be used to patrol for safety and to protect the ecology.