Victoria climbing body backs plan to ease access at Mount Arapiles Dyurrite

The peak body for rock climbing in Victoria has backed a proposal that could significantly increase access to climbing routes at Mount Arapiles Dyurrite, a renowned climbing spot in Australia. The proposed changes aim to move away from broad climbing bans and instead allow access to most routes, with specific measures for areas near culturally significant Indigenous sites. Climbing Victoria stated that a forthcoming proposal from Parks Victoria would eliminate blanket climbing bans, granting access to the majority of climbing routes. Where routes intersect with culturally significant sites, practical mitigation strategies, such as rerouting climbs, will be implemented. Only if no realistic means of mitigation can be found will affected climbs face closure. This approach is expected to result in substantially greater access for climbers and other recreational users. This shift comes after concerns that blanket bans might be imposed to protect the sensitive Indigenous cultural sites within the Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park. The area is rich in history, home to ancient rock art, scar trees, and artifacts connected to the Wotjobaluk Traditional Owners, whose heritage spans tens of thousands of years. Climbing Victoria noted that only a small fraction of the approximately 3,300 climbs at Dyurrite are anticipated to be impacted by potential closures. Parks Victoria is reportedly finalizing its amendment after receiving formal advice from the Wotjobaluk Traditional Owners. A four-week public engagement period is expected once the draft amendment is released. Climbing Victoria chair Mike Rockell expressed optimism, stating the community is "very heartened" by the proposed changes, viewing it as a positive step towards accommodating climbing activities while ensuring the protection of cultural heritage.

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Overall, we see it as a new and much better way of accommodating climbing while still ensuring the protection of culturally significant sites.