GULAGA National Park was closed Monday when a helicopter winched in equipment needed to upgrade walking tracks and did an aerial survey of invasive weeds.
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The lift went well and the team using a chartered chopper successfully did 10 lifts up to the top of Mt Gulaga.
The lift was from Bellbrook Farm and included large stones, timber for walkways, platforms and steps.
National Parks and Wildlife Service ranger Nadia Ross said significant track upgrades would make the network safer for visitors, prevent damage to the environment and protect culturally significant sites in the park.
“Essential repair works will be carried out with the local Aboriginal Green Army and include stabilising the track surface, constructing stone steps, timber walkways and platforms, removing slip hazards and installing drainage,” Ms Ross said. “The materials being winched in are for the steep 1.3km Saddle to Summit section of track on Gulaga Mountain, a culturally significant place for the local Aboriginal peoples.
The materials being winched in are for the steep 1.3km Saddle to Summit section... a culturally significant place for the local Aboriginal peoples.
- Ranger Nadia Ross
“These planned upgrades will create a designated walkway around these sites minimising potential damage and encroachment onto these areas.
“Today marks the start of this project, overseen by the Gulaga National Park Board of Management, who want to see a high-quality trail system through the park that increases visitor’s respect for Gulaga Mountain.
“The upgrades are expected to take a number of months and will be done alongside appropriate interpretation and signage to protect culturally sensitive areas sacred to the local Yuin peoples. There are a number of sites significant for the Yuin people quite close to the existing track and ideally these areas should not be visited without a Yuin guide.”
The scale of the work being done to restore Gulaga National Park since it was handed back to traditional owners in 2006 reflects the importance of the area to the Yuin people and the wider community.
Under the Board’s guidance the park is becoming more accessible for visitors and will see extensive bush regeneration, all while increasing respect and protection for its cultural significance to the community.
National Parks also continues to manage weeds such as lantana that is extensive on the mountain and the chopper was used to update the extent of its spread.
The park re-opened on Tuesday. Visitors are advised to check www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au for information on park closures.
