Stay safe in parks and forests

Victorians planning a getaway during the upcoming Melbourne Cup long weekend have been urged to plan ahead and stay up to date, as above-average rainfall impacts both flooded areas, and many popular visitor hotspots.

While parts of the state remain open and ready for long weekend visitors, holiday makers are asked to choose their destination carefully.

Several state forests and national parks have been closed due to flood and storm damage, particularly in northern Victoria.

Numerous roads, tracks and visitor sites have also been closed for public safety, and seasonal road closures have been extended in many areas due to conditions.

During this rapidly changing emergency situation, parks and forests may be inaccessible or unsafe, without closures, physical barriers or signage yet in place. Victorians should plan ahead, be prepared for changing weather conditions and how this can impact tracks, roads, river crossings and trees.

Alternative destinations and regularly updated information about closures can be found on the DELWP and Parks Victoria websites.

Parks Victoria Executive Director Operations, Kylie Trott, urged visitors to stay informed of the conditions at all times.

“We encourage visitors to plan-ahead and be prepared for changing conditions for this long weekend, even if the rain has stopped, the impacts of the flooding are not over,” Ms Trott said.

“Camping and visitor access will be limited, so if you do visit public land this weekend, please treat staff with patience and respect as they work hard to respond to this ongoing emergency.”

A good way of staying informed is to download the VicEmergency app and set up watch zones for the areas you plan to visit, including the route to get there.

The DELWP and Parks Victoria websites are also good sources to check road, track, park, and forest closures on public land, while the VicTraffic website provides information on other road closures.

For public safety, authorised Officers from DELWP, Parks Victoria and the Conservation Regulator will also be patrolling forests, parks and reserves targeting illegal off-road activity, littering and unsafe campfires. It is an offence to use closed roads and areas.

Anyone caught illegally riding or driving vehicles off-road in state forests and parks can face on-the-spot fines of $185, or up to $500 if the matter is taken to court. Damaging, disturbing or destroying wildlife habitat carries a maximum fine of more than $9,000.

Anyone who witnesses illegal vehicle use or rubbish dumping on public land is encouraged to report it on 136 186.

And always remember, never drive in floodwaters – it could be the last thing you do.

For more information about rules in state forests, including campfires and vehicle use, visit www.vic.gov.au/rules-in-state-forests.