Assessments of damaged caves, roads, bridges and buildings at Buchan Caves Reserve have started following flash flooding on Boxing Day.
Vast amounts of flood water poured through the reserve on Boxing Day, with water entering the caves and buildings, and shifting large quantities of soil, vegetation, rocks and road surface.
In the past four weeks, up to 60 staff and contractors at a time have been working to make the reserve safe and clear of debris.
Clean-up works have made the site safe for staff and contractors to access and to prevent any further damage. With this initial work completed, more detailed assessments can now take place. These assessments will help to establish a recovery approach for the reserve, which is likely to reopen in stages, as areas are safe to do so.
Buchan Caves Reserve is an important tourist destination that supports local businesses. It is also much-loved by the local community. During January, locals were invited to join a guided tour to view flood impacts first-hand and learn about how the recovery process might proceed.
IMAGE: Parks Victoria has begun assessments on the extensive damage created by Boxing Day flash flooding which ripped through the Buchan Caves Reserve, which remains closed to patrons. The assessments will help create a recovery approach. (PS)
