Upper Ferntree Gully’s 1000 Steps reopens after coronavirus lockdown
Fitness fanatics rejoice – one of Melbourne’s most beloved outdoor exercise hot spots is open to visitors again. Here’s the social distancing rules you will have to follow while working up a sweat.
Outer East
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The 1000 Steps has opened to the public again, with significant modifications to manage physical distancing risks
Parks Victoria has announced most of the reserves, parks, beaches and historic places it manages have reopened today for day visitors, while some sites remain closed to comply with physical distancing measures to slow the spread of coronavirus.
The authority said groups must be limited to no more than 10, and physical distancing of 1.5m must be maintained.
It said visitors to the 1000 Steps could walk in a singular direction up the steps from Ferntree Gully Picnic Ground but would descend via the Lyrebird Track to the Ferntree Gully carpark.
Sites to remain closed to meet physical distancing standards include St Kilda Pier – penguin viewing area, the 12 Apostles, Werribee Park – mansion tours closed, Buchan Caves Reserve – visitor centre, cave tours and camping area closed, Wonthaggi State Coal Mine – cafe and underground tours are closed, Princess Margaret Rose Caves, Point Nepean Tunnels, Serendip Sanctuary and William Ricketts Sanctuary.
But despite the reopenings, Parks Victoria said on its website: “Some restrictions have been cautiously eased to allow people to look after their own, and others’ health, wellbeing and social connection, however, the message remains clear: If you can stay at home, you must stay at home.”
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Knox Council Mayor Nicole Seymour took to Facebook to discourage residents from attending parks outside of Knox.
“Knox has only had 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19 of which only one is still active,” she posted.
“Our neighbouring municipalities have not fared so well, in fact Maroondah has had three new cases recently.
“By staying local you will help minimise the risk of a second wave.”
Parks Victoria-managed picnic shelters and tables will be open for use, but barbecues, water fountains, playgrounds and outdoor gyms remain closed.
Rangers will patrol open and closed parks, working with police and authorised officers from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to monitor compliance with the Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton’s directions.
Camping and overnight activities are not permitted, and all campgrounds remain closed.
Details: parks.vic.gov.au/COVID19