Visitors to East Gippsland can once again enjoy the magic of the Buchan Caves Reserve with the completion of work to restore access for cars and pedestrians.
In late July the main visitor area was closed after an independent structural assessment found the last wooden bridge in the reserve was at risk of collapsing.
Since then, Parks Victoria has worked with joint managers, the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) and Heritage Victoria to install a temporary replacement bridge, which is now in place and ready for traffic.
With the temporary bridge in place, people can once again drive into the campground and access picnic areas and walking tracks to enjoy this special area of Krauatungalung Country.
The Buchan Caves campground is a family favourite located in a peaceful and relaxing landscape. Campsites and the historic Caves House accommodation is available for bookings online.
Cave tours remain closed due to Covid-19 restrictions; however, the park staff will be hosting above-ground tours looking at the history and features of this stunning reserve.
Since the devastating Black Summer bushfires of 2019-20 the Victorian Government has invested more than $2 million to rebuild visitor facilities at the Buchan Caves Reserve, including the campground, accommodation, entrance to the Fairy Cave, Guide Room and Spring Creek lookout.
Before visiting the Buchan Caves, check the latest information on the Parks Victoria website at: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/buchan-caves-reserve
Quotes attributable to Tanya Taylor, Commercial Operations Manager Eastern Region, Parks Victoria:
“We know how important the Buchan Caves Reserve is for the local community and we are delighted to be able to reopen it for camping in time for the school holidays and Grand Final long weekend.”
“While ongoing COVID restrictions mean we can’t immediately reopen the cave tours, we’re offering above-ground tours to tell the story of this special place, its plants, animals, historic and cultural heritage.”
Quotes attributable to Robbie Farnham, JM Manager, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation:
“The Buchan Caves have always been a traditional meeting place for the Gunaikurnai so it’s fantastic to be able to welcome travellers back to the area. We thank the Buchan community for their support and patience and look forward to sharing the magic of this special place with visitors and locals alike.”
