Reconstruction and economic recovery efforts in east Gippsland and north-east Victoria have taken another step forward with Parks Victoria welcoming 30 new staff to help repair infrastructure damaged during devastating black summer bushfires.
The new land management staff include carpenters to build new steps, boardwalks, benches and other park infrastructure. They will be based across Bairnsdale, Bendoc, Buchan, Cann River, Cape Conran, Mallacoota, Bright and Tallangatta.
Funded through the Andrews Labor Government's 2021/22 State Budget − the team will continue work to rebuild and reopen remaining damaged parks infrastructure across Gippsland.
This includes the renowned Wilderness Coast Walk along the coast of far-east Gippsland, a 100km track that needs extensive vegetation clearance, hazardous tree removal and reconstruction.
Work will also be undertaken to repair and reopen roads and treat hazardous trees in fire-affected bushland.
Ongoing bushfire recovery works are supported by the Government's $110 million Eastern Victoria Fires 2019/20 State Recovery Plan.
Works completed to date by Parks Victoria staff include the reconstruction of two jetties in Mallacoota, reopening of the Buchan Caves Reserve, the new boardwalk at Salmon Rocks and restored access to Yeerung Beach.
More than 110km of roads and tracks have already been reopened and hazardous trees have been managed at 18 visitor areas and campgrounds, to improve safety for visitors and staff.
As stated by Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D'Ambrosio
"We are creating local jobs and supporting the economy in Eastern Victoria while ensuring we can finalise work on attractions that are valued by tourists and locals alike."
"While much work has been done, we know there is much still to do - and we're giving Parks Victoria's hard-working staff the support they need to get on with the job."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Jane Garrett
"We know how important Parks Victoria sites and attractions like the Wilderness Coast Walk are for our local community. I'm so pleased to see new jobs being created that will support efforts to rebuild and reopen these attractions so they can be enjoyed once again."
