Rangers welcome Southern 80 visitors to parks

Friday 8 February, 2013

Parks Victoria is urging Southern 80 race goers to explore the beautiful, iconic River Red Gum parks during their visit to Echuca this year, with some tips on caring for the environment.

According to Parks Victoria Ranger Mark Tscharke, the Southern 80 Ski Race provides the opportunity for visitors to explore the many beautiful beaches, campsites and picnic areas along the Murray River.

“The Day Visitor Areas from Echuca to Torrumbary are very popular for watching the race and many families and groups stay in dedicated camping areas in parks and reserves along the river,” said Mark.

While they are here, rangers are asking visitors to follow some simple guidelines on litter management and campfire safety to help look after the environment and protect their safety.

“We are asking race goers to keep visitor areas and campsites clear of rubbish, and remember the Carry In Carry Out policy in Victoria to keep the environment clean and green for everyone to enjoy.”

“Rangers out and about will encourage people to take their litter home with them, or to a local waste disposal location,” he said.

Rangers will also be increasing patrols over the weekend to ensure campers are doing the right thing, and adhering to camp fire regulations in the dry conditions.

In Victoria, campfires or gas barbecues are permitted in accordance with fire regulations. On-the-spot fines will be issued for campfire offences such as leaving fires unattended or having oversized fires.

A Solid Fuel Fire Ban applies throughout the summer in the Riverina parks on the NSW side of the river.  

“We were really pleased to see most visitors doing the right thing over the Australia Day long weekend and we hope to see similar behaviours continue during the Southern 80,” said Mark.

Maps and guidelines for safe and sustainable camping are available in The Murray River Guardian from rangers on patrol or at the River Red Gum parks marquee in Victoria Park over the weekend.