The Andrews Labor Government is set to enhance the visitor experience at Redwood Forest in Warburton, while still preserving the park’s unique environment.
Parks Victoria released the draft designs, which is backed by a $2.6 million investment from the Labor Government.
The draft designs aim to provide a range of new facilities including additional carparking, an accessible public toilet, a safety gate, and a wet-weather visitor shelter.
Visitor impacts to the site’s stunning forest and surrounding landscapes will also be managed by formalising sections of the existing trail network.
An additional $400,000 of works funded and delivered by Melbourne Water will include constructing boardwalks, viewing platforms and fencing. Revegetation along the Cement Creek and the Yarra River will also be undertaken to improve river health and the surrounding biodiversity.
The Cement Creek Redwood Forest in the Yarra Ranges National Park has become an increasingly popular site over recent years due to the enchanting and photogenic Californian Redwood trees.
In April, the Cement Creek Plantation (which includes the Redwood Forest) was added to the Victorian Heritage Register due to its aesthetic, historic and scientific significance.
Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water are working with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, Yarra Ranges Shire Council and Heritage Victoria to ensure the site’s natural and cultural values are protected during works and well into the future.
Parks Victoria’s portion of works is expected to commence in early 2024, while Melbourne Water’s delivery of works is expected to commence later this year.
For more information about the project, and to view the draft designs, visit parks.vic.gov.au/projects.
As stated by Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“We’re investing in our parks and forests to provide more opportunities for more people to connect with nature.”
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing
“We know the Redwood Forest in Warburton is well-loved by visitors and these upgrades will ensure we can continue to appreciate and protect this amazing place.”
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Major Events and Sport Steve Dimopoulos
“Improving the visitor facilities at the Redwoods will help support increased visitation, which is great for local businesses, the local community and nature lovers alike.”
