By Peter Douglas
MELBOURNE’S fitness fanatics are set for a shock as the ever-popular 1000 Steps gets set to close in the next few weeks.
The Ferntree Gully Kokoda Track Memorial Walk is to close for upgrading and maintenance works for three weeks from Monday 14 November, though some access will be available.
Walkers will still be able to access the summit of One Tree Hill from the Ferntree Gully picnic ground via Lyrebird Track and return to the picnic ground via Link Track, Belview Terrace and School Track.
Parks Victoria Area Chief Ranges Matt Hoogland said the works will improve the condition of the walk.
“(This will) ensure the 1000 Steps … continues to be safe and accessible for the half a million plus visitors who tackle the track each year,” he said.
“The temporary closure of the 1000 Steps track provides a great opportunity for walkers to try something new and explore the many other walking tracks in the Dandenong Ranges National Park and other parks they may not be aware of.”
Mr Hoogland said some of the great parks include the National Rhododendron Gardens, Silvan Reservoir, George Tindale Gardens, RJ Hamer Arboretum and the Pirianda Gardens.
“These parks not only offer a change of scenery but they are also quite spectacular at this time of year, as the gardens transition into their spring colours,” he said.
The works are expected to be completed by Friday, 2 December, pending favourable conditions.
For more information on alternate walking tracks and the Dandenong Ranges National Park, contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au.
