PARKS Victoria contractors have been busy removing fire-affected trees at Zumsteins Picnic Ground in the Grampians National Park.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Fire swept through the picnic ground in January, causing considerable damage to most of the popular large pine trees.
Parks Victoria Ranger in Charge David Roberts said each tree has been carefully assessed by arborists and will need to be removed in the interests of public safety.
"Unfortunately, pine trees do not regenerate after fire. They decay very quickly and become dangerous with limbs dropping and after time the tree will also eventually fall, which presents a clear risk to visitors," Mr Roberts said.
"These trees were originally planted by Walter and Jean Zumstein more than one hundred years ago and are fondly remembered by many who have picnicked or camped at Zumsteins over the years.
"We are currently working with the community to ensure that we re-plant appropriate tree species that help complement the heritage of this much-loved picnic area."
Once the works are completed the popular Fish Falls Walking track will reopen for visitors to once again enjoy this river walk from Zumsteins.
The centenary for Walter and Jean Walter was celebrated last year in September. Parks Victoria staff, in consultation with the community, planted matured non-indigenous trees to provide shade to the picnic area in honour of Walter and Jean.