All abilities access for Stevensons Falls

UPGRADES to facilities at Stevensons Falls in the Otways will make the area accessible for people of all abilities when a $1.35 million dollar works program is completed in the new year.

The popular Barramunga tourist destination will close this spring and summer as construction begins on new facilities, including a wheelchair-friendly toilet block, path, viewing platform and disabled parking.

A second viewing platform with seating will also be built at ground level and will extend three metres out over the Gellibrand River.

Downstream from the falls, a dedicated picnic area with tables and seating will be built beside the water.

“We’re ensuring all Victorians can get out and explore our beautiful environment with upgrades to visitor facilities, trails and campgrounds across the state,” Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio said.

“The new wheelchair-accessible viewing platform will offer fantastic side views of the waterfall.”

Sections of the walk between Stevensons Falls and the arrival area are included in the works, with paths widened and resurfaced and installation of a boardwalk through a stand of redwoods.

Western Victorian MP Gayle Tierney said the project is expected to increase the area’s visitor capacity from “80,000 to more than 100,000 each year”.

Access to Upper Gellibrand Road that leads into the area will be restricted to local residents only while construction activity is under way.