Fire risk closes 1000 Steps, national parks across Victoria

FITNESS fanatics are defying bans at Melbourne’s 1000 Steps, taking to the popular exercise spot today despite it being closed because of a total fire ban.

Been running stories on the 1000 Steps on total fire ban days still being open. The steps were closed today with closed signs erected at the carpark entrance and a physical barrier in place preventing vehicle access. Despite the closure signs there were still a handful of people observed using the steps. Bryan Yap (mob [phone]) from Blackburn Nth is a regular visitor to the park but was surprised to find it closed today. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

FITNESS fanatics are defying bans at Melbourne’s 1000 Steps, taking to the popular tourist spot today despite it being closed because of a total fire ban.

As Victorians prepare to deal with extreme fire conditions this weekend and authorities closing national parks across Melbourne, a number or people were today seen flouting the ban at the Dandenong attraction.

Parks Victoria said gates were closed and signs were erected.

The Dandenong Ranges National Park, including the 1000 Steps, will remain off-limits to the public until at least Sunday.

Dandenong Ranges gardens, including the National Rhododendron Gardens in Olinda and Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens in Sherbrooke, are also closed.

Two walkers defy the ban. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

A sign at the 1000 Steps today. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

It comes after Parks Victoria faced criticism from hills brigades for previously not shutting the 1000 Steps on total fire ban days.

The organisation continues to monitor specific local sites before shutting areas, rather than using the weather bureau’s Total Fire Ban criteria.

Parks are closed when conditions at local points — such as at Coldstream and Ferny Creek for the 1000 Steps — soar into the “severe”, “extreme” and “code red” on the local fire danger index.

Fines will be issued to anyone found to be using the parks during the closures.

Parks Victoria has also notified emergency services, Public Transport Victoria and other stakeholders of the bans.

Parks Victoria spokeswoman Lauren Pike said the organisation urged people to obey the restrictions.

“We ask that people reconsider plans, not enter parks and be personally responsible,” she said.

Click HERE for a full list of closures.