The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to enhance outdoor experiences across Victoria – creating more affordable holiday options and boosting tourism in the regions.
Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt announced the $106.6 million Victoria’s Great Outdoors program has already delivered 31 new campgrounds and upgraded 57 across the state.
Improved camping sites and facilities for visitors has made it easier for families to extend their stay at a number of locations, including Walmer Recreation Area, near Castlemaine or Poplars Reserve alongside the picturesque Loch River.
Visitors can also enjoy new amenities including camp kitchens, barbeques and playgrounds at Lake Charlegrark Caravan Park, Balnarring Foreshore Reserve, Murchison River Road and Echuca Caravan Park.
People will also be able to enjoy more than 30 kilometres of improved walking trails and 125 kilometres of upgraded four-wheel driving track throughout the regions – including the new 1.5-kilometre Rock Ned Walking Track in the Strathbogie State Forest.
Camping is free at most state forest campgrounds, while camp fees have been halved at National Park sites to make nature more accessible.
To find out where to go in our parks and state forests, download the More to Explore app or visit exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au.
Spring is also a great time to hit the water, whether that’s cruising a river with family and friends, skiing on a lake, or wetting a line with the kids during the school holidays for a spot of fishing.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny announced the delivery of the government’s $96m package to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture is well underway.
The funding has seen upgrades to boat ramps across the state, expansion plans at the Snobs Creek and Arcadia fish hatcheries to grow more native fish, and free boat launching and parking for all Victorians.
Funding is also available to support local angling clubs attract new members through the Stronger Fishing Club Grants Program that is now open at vfa.vic.gov.au/strongerfishingclubs.
Recreational fishing in Victoria has never been better thanks to a net-free Port Phillip and Gippsland Lakes, the 95,000 free Little Angler Kits getting the next generation hooked on the popular pastime, and another year of stocking more than 10 million fish – more than every other state in Australia combined.
As stated by Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“Delivering new and improved camp sites across the state will encourage more families to explore Victoria’s great outdoors.”
“From fully equipped drive-in campsites to remote hiking spots in the bush, there are so many ways to enjoy camping in Victoria this spring.”
“With the weather warming up there is no better time to start organising your next outdoor adventure in Victoria!”
As stated by Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny
“Investing in these facilities means more Victorians can explore our state’s beautiful parks and waterways, enjoy the great outdoors and relax and unwind with their loved ones.”
