ACCESS to natural spaces is a right many take for granted, but recent actions by the State Government have sparked concern among Victorians who cherish their state and national parks. Amid reports of large boulders and fallen trees blocking entrances, as well as locked gates keeping the public away from beloved recreational areas, questions have been raised about the government’s commitment to open access.
Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, the Member for Northern Victoria, has questioned the Allan Labor Government in State Parliament, referencing previous promises made by Premier Jacinta Allan and Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos that the community would not be locked out of public lands.
Tyrrell said, “In September, both the Premier and the Minister said they would not lock the community out of public parks and forests. Just this week I have been notified of numerous large boulders and felled trees being placed across tracks leading in and out of state and national parks, restricting public access. I have also had reports of locked gates keeping people out of parts of public land.”
Tyrrell emphasised the critical timing of these restrictions as the fire season approaches, asking, “How are emergency services supposed to access these blocked areas if they remain in place?”
Tyrrell’s concerns reflect a growing discontent among the community, as she asserts that the government has broken its vow to ensure unrestricted access to nature’s beauty.
“Premier Jacinta Allan publicly and categorically made a promise to all Victorians that she would not restrict public access to our beautiful state and national parks, and she has seemingly betrayed the public by breaking her promise,” said Tyrrell.
“Strategically placed boulders and trees at entrances are preventing Victorians from enjoying our wonderful parks and forests, and both the Minister and the Premier need to fess up to their apparent betrayal.”
