Holidaymakers planning to take advantage of the State’s parks and reserves are being urged to keep safety at the front of their mind as severe weather creating hazards and risks are becoming common at a time many Victorians aren’t very familiar with them.
Director of Fire, Emergency and Enforcement at Parks Victoria, David Nugent said this summer was expected to be different than others, with widespread flood, storm and wind events expected to continue impacting public land well into the coming months.
“Extreme weather has damaged roads, tracks and visitor facilities managed by Parks Victoria as well as the environment and cultural heritage,” Mr Nugent said.
“We are yet to see the flood peak in some parts of Victoria, such as along the Murray River in north-west Victoria,” he said.
“This summer will be different for Victorians.”
Mr Nugent said that above average rainfall was expected to continue into January, “which means that your favourite spots may not be accessible or safe to visit”.
He said Parks Victoria’s top priority was safety and asked people to plan ahead and be prepared for changing conditions.
“Flood waters will take time to recede,” Mr Nugent said.
“Then recovery work will begin to reopen our campsites, visitor areas and access roads.”
Further information on visiting parks safely this summer can be accessed at this PS News link and a live map of impacted areas at this link.
