A major rock-climbing destination in Australia is set to become more restricted after a cultural heritage assessment.
The state government has proposed that up to half of the climbing tracks around Mount Arapiles, located in western Victoria, be closed off under a new draft management plan for the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape. The area is known for its significance, featuring one of the largest stone quarry complexes in the country, along with ancient rock art and scar trees dating back 3,000 years.
The updated plan aims to provide greater certainty for Traditional Owners, represented by the Barengi Gadjin Land Council, while balancing the needs of park visitors.
Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Natalie Hutchins, emphasized the importance of finding a compromise. “It’s essential that we respect cultural heritage while allowing Victorians to continue enjoying the outdoors in the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape,” she said.
The draft plan will allow climbing in 80 established areas, though several previously closed sections, including Declaration Crag, Tiger Wall, and Castle Crag, will remain off-limits. New permanent bans will extend to areas like The Pharos, Yesterday Gully, Mitre Rock, and Tiptoe Ridge.
Climbers have expressed disappointment, arguing that the increased restrictions threaten the community. “Parks Victoria and the Victorian Government continue to damage the Australian climbing scene by expanding bans at Arapiles and ignoring the views of most climbers in consultations,” said Save Grampians Climbing.
A public consultation on the draft management plan is open until December 2.
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