The State Government must commit to maintaining public access to bushland and parks, the Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has told Parliament.
Ms Broad has been contacted by many constituents concerned about a proposal by the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) to reclassify the Central Highlands State Forest to the proposed Great Forest National Park.
Ms Broad said access to local forests was already frustrating and confusing.
“I live near national and state forests. On one side of the road in the state forest people can go horse riding and walk their dogs. On the other side of the road in the national park you can be fined.
“Our state parks are the backyards for many Victorians, a place where people can go gold prospecting, camping, hunting, fishing, four-wheel driving and trail bike riding, and access firewood.”
Ms Broad urged the Minister for Environment to listen to the many thousands of people who wanted to see public land remain open and accessible.
“On behalf of all those who have raised this issue with me, I ask the Minister to commit to maintaining public access in these parks, to ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy Victoria’s Great Outdoors.”
Public submissions to the Eminent Panel regarding the Central Highlands have recently closed, and VEAC is expected to provide a final report by 31 July 2024.
Ms Broad urged bush users to sign a parliamentary e-petition opposing any potential closure of public access to Victorian state forests.
The petition calls on the government to guarantee no new national parks will be set up, and that traditional recreational activities will continue.
The e-petition can be signed online https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/stop-the-creation-of-any-new-national-parks/
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
