Steps closed

By Tania Martin
SAFETY concerns over the iconic 1000 steps-Kokoda Memorial Track in Upper Ferntree Gully have led to its temporary closure.
Parks Victoria last week announced that the track would be closing in two months’ time so that improvement work could be undertaken.
The popular 1000 steps-Kokoda track is located at the top of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Upper Ferntree Gully.
Park ranger Matt Hoogland said it was necessary to close the track so that it could be upgraded because of several safety concerns over its current condition.
He said the handrails on the track were unstable and needed replacing and that some of the steps also badly needed fixing.
The proposed upgrade of the track comes after Parks Victoria commissioned a report last year on its condition.
Mr Hoogland said it was also vitally important to upgrade the trail as it was becoming more popular not only with locals but people from other parts of Melbourne to use as an exercise track.
The 1000 steps track has been a popular destination since it was first built out of tree-trunks and mud in the 1800s.
It was upgraded in the early 1900s to wooden steps before being converted to concrete in the mid 1950s following World War II.
But, according to a Parks Victoria report, the steps have now become old and warn.
Steps, handrails, track resurfacing and the installation of seating and drainage works will all be part of the upgrade.
Mr Hoogland said the works would start in either March or April and that the track would be closed for three months.
He said Parks Victoria wanted to assure people that the track closure was only temporary. “The last time we closed the track for a few days people feared it was closed for good but that is not going to happen,” Mr Hoogland said.
Meanwhile, to ensure that visitors are able to continue to enjoy the park, Parks Victoria will be installing new information and directional signs to promote the use of alternative tracks around the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Mr Hoogland is also reminding people that despite the upgrades, the 1000 steps track was not designed for running or jogging.
“Running up and down the steps increases people’s risk of injury to themselves and others,” he said.
“The other concern is the ongoing damage to the site, with regards to both the environment and its cultural significance.”