Parks Victoria rangers have removed and repaired many kilometres-worth of destruction caused by a severe weather event two months ago, which brought down hundreds of trees and branches.
In a statement, Parks Victoria said its rangers’ work, which included damage assessments, clearing of tracks, fence line clearing and safety works such as hand rail replacement, had led to positive and ongoing progress since the 9 June storm.
“William Ricketts Sanctuary and the popular 1,000 Steps in the Dandenong Ranges National Park were the sites hardest hit and they remain closed,” Parks Victoria said.
“At William Ricketts Sanctuary, large eucalyptus and mountain ash trees have damaged more than 30 of the unique clay sculptures created by the artist William Ricketts,” it said.
“The public toilets, original residence, Stone Studio and Kiln have also been damaged, as well as fencing, pathways and handrails.”
Parks Victoria said while the Sanctuary would need to remain closed as crews carried out work to make it safe for visitors, the neighbouring Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens were open.
The Agency said that with the support of crews from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), its rangers had cleared more than 100 kilometres of roads, walking trails and picnic grounds throughout the Dandenong and Yarra Ranges District.
It said Parks Victoria, DELWP and VicForests crews were making good progress at the Macedon Regional Park and Lerderderg State Park, with more than 50 kilometres of trails and some roads checked and cleared.
“Work at Kinglake National Park, located on the slopes of the Great Dividing Range, is ongoing and some areas remain closed,” it said.
“Rangers are working hard to clear debris and safely re-open each site by late October.”
Parks Victoria said plans for a partial re-opening of Morwell National Park, to be executed by late August, were made possible thanks to the work of rangers.
Further information on park and track closures can be accessed at this PS News link.
