Local businesses are reeling from the ban on rock climbing at Mt Arapiles, with concerns raised about their ability to recover. Liberal MP Bev McArthur has highlighted the devastating impact on towns like Natimak and Horsham. The bans were announced by Parks Victoria and the Barengi Gadjin Land Council to protect Aboriginal artefacts and rock art.
The ban has sparked controversy, with thousands of climbers expressing their opposition. Shadow Minister Emma Kealy has spearheaded a petition against the ban, gathering over 9,300 signatures. McArthur has been a vocal opponent of the bans, emphasizing the economic repercussions for the affected communities.
Labor MP Jacinta Ermacora defended the prohibitions, citing the need to strike a balance between leisure activities and the preservation of Aboriginal culture. She emphasized the cultural significance of the Dyurrite landscape and the importance of protecting it for future generations. Ermacora also stressed the importance of ongoing consultation to address the needs of all stakeholders.
Despite the government’s conservation efforts, McArthur warned of the far-reaching consequences of the climbing bans. She highlighted the negative impact on businesses, residents, and tourism in the Natimuk area. The closure of businesses like Open Spaces Publishing underscores the broader implications of the bans.
The Victorian government has announced a management plan for Mt Arapiles-Tooan State Park, aiming to balance recreational use with cultural heritage protection. The plan includes upgrades to visitor facilities and measures to safeguard artefacts and threatened plant species. The government has extended the consultation period to address concerns raised by stakeholders.
Overall, the ban on rock climbing at Mt Arapiles has sparked a heated debate between conservation efforts and economic interests. The government’s management plan seeks to address these competing priorities while ensuring the preservation of the area’s cultural and environmental heritage. Please rephrase this sentence.
Source link
