Over four productive days this October, four clubs from Four Wheel Drive Victoria and volunteers from the Friends of Errinundra teamed up with Parks Victoria rangers across Bendoc, Cann River, Mallacoota and Orbost to restore access to some of Victoria’s most remote and rugged landscapes in the Snowy River and Errinundra National Parks.
This annual community effort – now in its 19th year – supports the reopening of the seasonally closed road and track network across the state.
The closures, which run from June each year, help protect drivers, track conditions and the environment from harm during the wet and snowy months.
A highlight for both volunteers and Parks Victoria crews, the teams worked together to prepare impacted areas for their reopening from Friday (October 31), just in time for the Melbourne Cup long weekend.
“Our partnership with Four Wheel Drive Victoria and the Friends of Errinundra shows what’s possible when community comes together,” Parks Victoria area chief ranger, Dave Burton said.
“These volunteers bring not only skill and equipment, but a genuine passion for preserving and protecting these remote landscapes for everyone to enjoy.
“Through collaboration, we ensure our parks remain accessible, safe and welcoming for all, and it’s a great reminder of the vital role volunteers play in helping us look after Victoria’s natural treasures.”
Key achievements included:
– Opening seasonal closure gates across key 4WD tracks that make up the Snowy Icon Drive in the Snowy River National Park and scenic routes through the Errinundra National Park
– Clearing fallen trees from roads and access points
– Restoring walking tracks to improve visitor access and safety.
