The Island Lake lauch site in the wilderness section of the Gadern route National Park has been closed to the public following a boat fire accidentthat occurred ob Monday december 5. \aprivattely owned boat belonging to a guest caught fire on Island lake while preparations were underway to launch it. initial reports indicate that the boat was already in the water when the engine was started , at which point it caught alight. The cause of the fire remains unknown and it is under investigation. \No fatalities were reported. Reports indicate that one individual sustained some injuries and was sent to a neighboring hospital for further treatment. Reports from SANParks indicate that rangers, in conjunction with the Wilderness Brigade responded to the incident. They promptly managed to contain the fire and secure the area. The jett leading to the launch site reportedly sustained minor damage because of the fire. As a result of fuel spillage linked to the incident, SANPaarks has enlisted the services of a service provider to carry our environmental clean up and remediation. SANParks reported that the Island Launch Site remains closed for now to ensure public safety and allow for proper rehabilitation of the affected area. However, the Lake picnic area remains open and accessible to visitors, SANParks said..
