Martin Ferguson
Minister for Resources and Energy
Minister for Tourism
Louise Asher
Minister for Tourism and Major Events
New visitor facilities have been built in Tarra-Bulga National Park, South Gippsland as part of the joint Federal and Victorian Government $10 million tourism industry recovery package following the 2009 bushfires.
Federal Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP and Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher MP, today officially opened the $743,000 Tarra Valley Day Visitor Area facilities built by Parks Victoria.
“Tourism is important to Gippsland. The region’s natural attractions and tourism businesses draw 2.8 million visitors a year who spend $375 million in the local economy,” Minister Ferguson said.
“Following extensive damage from the 2009 bushfires, the joint Federal and State Government funding has been used to build new improved facilities including a new toilet block, picnic shelter and tables, information shelter, paving, landscaping and asphalting of the carpark area at Tarra-Bulga National Park.
“Tarra Bulga National Park is popular for its waterfalls, scenic walking tracks, Corrigan’s Suspension Bridge, ancient trees and fern gullies which is why it has been important to invest in the rebuilding of visitor facilities.
“By working together, our two governments have been helping to rebuild the economic fabric of Victoria’s communities and support more than 193,000 direct and indirect Victorian tourism jobs.”
Minister Asher said she welcomed the support of the Federal Tourism Minister in assisting Victoria’s $15.2 billion industry to recover from the devastating 2009 fires.
“The recovery work in Gippsland was designed in part by the community for the community, and is an important milestone in revitalising the region,” Ms Asher said.
“I am also pleased to announce today that the second phase of the project will deliver a new lookout platform across the iconic Corrigan’s Suspension Bridge.
“One of several tracks into the magnificent canopies of Mountain Ash and lush deep fern, is an easy 2 km roundtrip to the popular bridge that crosses the Mack’s valley. Whether it be taking in the breathtaking panoramic views, or listening to the mimic cry of the lyrebirds, Tarra-Bulga offers a truly enriching experience for the whole family.”
Following the 2009 bushfires, the State and Commonwealth Governments announced an allocation of $10 million to assist regions in the recovery from the 2009 bushfires. $3 million was allocated to assist with the enhancement and redevelopment of tourism and visitor facility infrastructure in national, state and regional parks.
Ministers Asher and Ferguson also acknowledged the Traditional Owners, the Gunaikurnai, who jointly manage the Tarra-Bulga National Park with Parks Victoria.
For more information visit www.visitvictoria.com or www.parks.vic.gov.au