GRAMPIANS tour operators have praised a new move that will see rock climbing continue at Summerday Valley until next year.
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Parks Victoria announced it will now extend licences for tour operators that offer rock climbing and abseiling at Summerday Valley in the Grampians National Park.
Previously, licences permitted rock climbing with tour groups until September 30.
Parks Victoria, in consultation with Traditional Owner groups, has now issued an extension until March 31, 2020.
Daniel Earl, owner of tour operator Hangin' Out, welcomed the news.
"This allows us to now take bookings from groups that far in advance," he said.
Mr Earl said he hoped the licences would be extended until at least the Easter school holiday period, which would start on March 28.
"That week leading up to Easter school holidays is one of our busiest weeks," he said.
Mr Earl said it was important people realised that Summerday Valley was open to climbed.
"We've had school groups cancelling because they feel like they are doing an injustice to the cultural heritage in the area, but that is not the case," he said.
"Parks Victoria has told us they are trying to reverse some of the misunderstandings that has gone on in the public."
Parks Victoria chief executive Matthew Jackson said strict conditions remained in place at Summerday Valley, which was within one of the national park's Special Protection Areas.
These conditions include a limit on operating locations, compulsory completion of an Aboriginal cultural heritage induction program, and ongoing education for operators.
"Strict licence conditions will ensure that any harm to natural and cultural values are minimised and monitored," Mr Jackson said.
Since announcing it would restrict recreation activities in Special Protection Areas, Parks Victoria has been developing a new management plan, which will outline a long-term direction for recreation in the park.
Mr Jackson said the park was increasingly popular for recreation, which was why a new management plan was needed.
"Rock climbing with a licensed tour operator is a great way to have a safe and supervised visit," he said.