Thursday, 28 March 2024
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Local News

Early seasonal road closures

Early seasonal road closures

Due to the impacts of the early winter storms and snow, some roads and tracks in Parks across East Gippsland and the High Country were temporarily closed from yesterday.

Seasonal road closures occur annually across the track networks in National Parks and State Forests, as part of an annual driver safety and road damage prevention program, with most closures occurring later in June.

However, the early start to winter with cold fronts bringing in heavy snow and rain meant some of these tracks in the High Country and East Gippsland were already impassable before the traditional closure date of the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

Following further inclement weather and several rescues of people stranded in vehicles in the alpine areas, seasonal road closures across the Alps were brought forward, with some closures already in place since early May.

The early closures include tracks across the Snowy River National Park and Alpine National Park.

If you’re heading out to enjoy the roads and tracks that remain open, remember to plan your trip, be well prepared and check the weather forecast before you go.

Forest Fire Management Victoria and Parks Victoria consult with a range of stakeholders, including Four Wheel Drive Victoria, to identify sections of the road and track network that require closures.

“With the long weekend fast approaching, we understand that many people may already have plans to visit these high country areas and will need to rethink their holiday. We urge those people to check which roads are still open,” Parks Victoria Regional Director, Graeme Baxter, said.

“We are focussed on protecting and conserving Victoria’s natural environment and ensuring visitors to our parks have a safe and enjoyable experience.”

“We’re encouraging everyone to make sure they do the right thing this weekend, be really well prepared and check out all the relevant channels to make sure you can access your favourite camping spots before heading out,” Forest Fire Management Victoria Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Gippsland, Beth Roberts, said.


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