Concerns have been raised about the state of public camping spots along the Murray River, calling for immediate government intervention.
Although many of the popular sites downstream of Yarrawonga have recovered from several years of flooding and forced closures some tracks still remain inaccessible, and others deteriorate very quickly after just a small amount of rain.
The concern comes as the region anticipates a bustling Easter period, with the current condition of these sites threatening to dampen the spirits of potential visitors.
Member for Benambra Bill Tilley has been vocally disappointed with the neglected state of popular camping locations.
“About this time last year, I was promised that these and other spots along the Murray would be tidied up and opened to the public before Easter; I should have asked which Easter,” Tilley remarked.
He criticised the government’s handling of the situation, linking the state’s $200 billion debt to the lack of maintenance and funding for these areas.
“People ask me what the state’s $200 billion debt means to the average punter – well, look at our roads, look at these camping spots, they have no money, and we end up suffering.”
Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy says many of the tracks that provide access to the Murray River have been “left to rot” deterring campers.
“Labor likes to pretend to care about the bush and regional Victorians, but simply does not follow through with actions,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Under Labor, the access tracks and paths for campers and emergency vehicles have been left to rot, the level of cleanliness is going down, and instead of repairing paths and making them last longer, they simply lock them up and throw away the key.
“What we need in Victoria is better facilities for campers along the river, better shower and toilet blocks designed to enhance visitors stays and keep them coming back to the region, while also allowing sites to be left tidy and improve the general campground condition.”
Mr McCurdy also highlighted the concerning issue of people having to set up campsites permanently as they have nowhere else to stay.
“They need support and are unable to get the support in a timely manner. Labor needs to step up and help these people out so that campsites can be used for short stays to ensure everyone can enjoy them,” he added.
“It may also be time to look at changes to the system, such as what NSW has done by implementing a fee-free booking system so that campers are accountable for the rubbish and mess they leave behind.
“I would encourage the government to scope out the feasibility of this model and consult with the local community.”
Echoing Tilley and McCurdy’s concerns, Member for Northern Victoria Region Wendy Lovell highlighted the dire conditions at Doolans Bend and Richardson’s Bend located upstream closer to Howlong in a recent address to the Victorian Parliament.
“Doolans Bend is a disgrace; you need a monster truck to drive down the rutted roads, and the place is overgrown with weeds,” Lovell stated.
She also mentioned that Richardson’s Bend has been closed since the 2022 floods, with no explanation provided to the public.
The declining condition of these camping sites has also impacted local businesses dependent on river tourism.
Dave Breedon, of Murray River Canoe Hire, expressed his frustration over the loss of business and the risks to his equipment and clients due to the poor condition of access roads.
“I’ve lost count of the times I’ve reached out to Parks Victoria asking when Richardson’s Bend will open,” Mr Breedon said.
“It’s costing me clients and every time we drive into one of these public spots I put our vehicles at risk, the tracks are a disgrace.”
In response to these concerns, Parks Victoria District Manager Jess Reid assured that the majority of flood-impacted parks and sites along the Murray have reopened thanks to the efforts of rangers and contractors.
“Thanks to the hard work of Parks Victoria rangers and contractors, the vast majority of flood-impacted parks and sites along the Murray have reopened, and there are many places to camp around Yarrawonga and other popular spots,” she said.
“Repairing significant damage to tracks and roads takes time and can be affected by seasonal flooding, but that work continues at sites across the region.
“Works to restore vehicle access to Richardson’s Bend and upgrades at Doolan’s Bend are planned for the coming months. Visitors can still get to the Richardson’s Bend campsite by boat and Doolan’s Bend is accessible to four-wheel drive vehicles.”
Following the devastating floods of October and November 2022, Parks Victoria has been working with Emergency Recovery Victoria to address the extensive damage and plan for the recovery of flood-affected areas. The agency has been proactive in cleaning up debris, replacing complex assets, and assessing sites of Aboriginal cultural significance.
As the community looks forward to the Easter period, there is a collective hope for swift action to rejuvenate these beloved camping spots and restore their status as iconic destinations for families and tourists alike.