Yahoo Lifestyle Massive metal spikes 'cowardly' buried in popular Aussie national park track
Locals have been left angry and confused by the dangerous act.
Metal spikes have been discovered embedded in a popular path at an Australian national park, prompting a warning to walkers, runners and cyclists. Over a dozen spikes, each measuring almost 18 cm long, were embedded in the ground pointing skywards and partially buried in leaves.
Rangers have increased patrols around Tewantin National Park which lies just 12 km from Queensland’s Noosa Heads. A local mountain bike club reported the spikes caused multiple punctures in an area colloquially called Blood Gully. “It's difficult to know what the motivation for this clear attempt to cause harm was,” it said.
The use of mountain bikes in public places often sparks debate in Australian communities. But locals responded with confusion online that someone would take such a dangerous step and spike the track.
One person called those responsible “cowards”, while another said it must have been a “sick person”. Others questioned what was going wrong with the world, with one saying “Crikey, society gone nuts” and another adding, “That’s so horrible why would someone go to that much trouble to harm people enjoying the great outdoors”.
Tourists blasted after chaotic scenes at beach where 100 whales washed up
Plan to kill 1,200 crocodiles a year as government refuses to rule out trophy hunting
Rangers use metal detectors to track down more spikes
The first eight spikes were discovered last week, and rangers then used metal detectors on Wednesday and removed five more.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife called the situation “deeply concerning”.
“This is the first time we have received a report of this type of malicious activity in the area,” Ranger John McQueeney added. “Everyone deserves to have a safe, enjoyable experience in our national parks and any attempt to damage property or hurt visitors or wildlife is unacceptable.”
Anyone visiting the area is urged to keep to designated paths and wear safety gear.
Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the week’s best stories.
