Four Wheel Drive Victoria have been reminded by Parks Victoria that with regional Victoria reopening to the whole state on Friday (29 October), tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to camping areas in Gippsland ahead
of the Melbourne Cup public holiday.
Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), Gippsland Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Geoff Conway said: “Large crowds are expected at popular sites in national parks, state forests and regional parks across the region and it’s important that people keep COVIDSafe.
"We encourage everyone to get outdoors and enjoy our beautiful camping areas, but it’s important that people have a plan B if their destination is full.
“Hundreds of sites are expected to be at capacity across our region and if all of your chosen sites are full, try private accommodation or a caravan park,” Geoff Conway said.
For alternative sites, visit the Parks Victoria website, FFFMVic’s Places to Visit page or download the More to Explore app.
“We are also reminding campers to take their rubbish with them and dispose of it properly. People camping in areas without toilet facilities are reminded to correctly dispose of toilet paper and human waste by burying it in at least a 15cm deep hole and 100 metres from waterways.
“Melbourne Cup weekend also marks the end of most seasonal road and track closures. If you’re going four-wheel driving, check the conditions in the area you’re planning to visit.
"The effects of storm, flood and fire damage are visible in Gippsland’s state forests, so please exercise caution,” he said.
Stay safe, look after one another and enjoy your stay to our beautiful state forests in Gippsland. We encourage everyone to plan ahead and do the right thing so everyone can enjoy the outdoors this weekend.”
For a full list of road and tracks which re-open from Thursday (28 October), visit: parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/safety-in-nature/seasonal-road-closures
You can also contact your local DELWP office by calling 136 186, or Parks Victoria on 13 19 63
For tips on staying COVIDSafe, please visit: coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings
