The Allan Labor Government is ensuring Victorians can enjoy the Arapiles-Tooan State Park (Dyurrite Cultural Landscape), investing in its facilities and protecting its natural wonders for future generations to come.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos today announced a $1.7 million investment to improve the facilities, tracks and access points at Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park (Dyurrite Cultural Landscape).
It will improve parking, refresh tracks and trails as well as upgrade visitor facilities including new barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and new signage telling the cultural story of the area.
This investment follows the release of the draft management plan for Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park (Dyurrite Cultural Landscape) which includes areas of cultural significance to the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk Peoples.
The area is home to one of the largest stone quarry complexes found in Australia with rock art and scar trees dating back 3,000 years.
Under the draft management plan the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape will continue to be a place for climbing, walks and camping, as well as many other activities, with 80 of the established rock-climbing areas open for climbers.
The updated management plan provides certainty for the Traditional Owners, represented by the Barengi Gadjin Land Council, and all users of the state park.
Public consultation on the draft management plan is open until December 2. To provide feedback visit, parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/mount-arapiles-tooan-state-park.
The celebration of the rediscoveries in Dyurrite serves as a tribute to Darren Griffin, archaeologist and Co-Executive Officer of BGLC, for his advocacy, collaboration, and determination and acknowledges his dedication to this project, as well as his efforts to realise the aspirations of Elders and Traditional Owners today.
Alongside his Traditional Owner colleagues, Darren worked tirelessly to ensure that Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk cultural heritage is protected and celebrated for generations to come.
As stated by Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
"We want as many Victorians as possible to enjoy the great outdoors. This investment will allow more visitors to appreciate the park, while celebrating and protecting its cultural and environmental wonders for future generations."
As stated by Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins
"It's important we get the balance right, respect cultural heritage and allow Victorians to continue to visit and enjoy the outdoors in the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape."
As stated by Lyn Mace Deputy Chair Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation
"The Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk Peoples have lived in and cared for the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape for tens of thousands of years. We share a deep spiritual and cultural connection to this remarkable landscape, which is rich in irreplaceable cultural heritage, artefacts, and creation stories."
"Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation is encouraged by the Government's investment in Dyurrite and its support for the implementation of appropriate cultural heritage and environmental protections for the benefit of all. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience this culturally significant landscape firsthand."
