Great Forest National Park Isn’t on the Map Yet – But Now You Can Buy Its Guidebook

A guidebook has been developed for the proposed Great Forest National Park in Victoria’s Central Highlands, to share a range of destinations and activities available, along with the science and history of the area.

The proposed 525,000 hectare reserve would be located 1.5 hours from Melbourne, and although it isn’t yet a national park, the natural area offers a huge range of activities. Whether you’re a walker, camper, fisher, cyclist, runner, horse rider, or a 4WDer, the guidebook details inspiring ways to connect with nature in what conservationists hope will become the Great Forest National Park.

‘Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, it’s a huge opportunity for recreation for nature-starved urbanites’, says Matt Ruchel, Executive Director of the Victorian National Parks Association.

The guidebook has been created by local residents to encourage the government to advance the development of the area.

‘We need the government to step up, declare the national park, and unlock an estimated $71 million in annual support for local rural towns’, says Sarah Rees, Project Manager for the Great Forest National Park (GFNP).

There hasn’t been a national park dedicated to the Greater Melbourne area since the Yarra Ranges National Park in 1996, and with the region’s population booming, there’s an increasing demand for protected green spaces. According to a survey of by , 80% of Victorian voters support expanding parklands.

‘By reading the guidebook, you’re helping to safeguard this natural wonderland and its critically endangered flora and fauna for future generations’, Sarah says.

The Great Forest National Park Guide features contributions from scientists, environmentalists, and outdoor adventurers, with sections on:

• Science and history with Professor David Lindenmayer, Rick Ridgeway, and Sarah Rees
• Biodiversity with Dr Kita Ashman and the big tree legend Brett Mifsud
• Hiking and running adventures with Backyard Adventurer Beau Miles, pro marathon runner Erchana Murray-Bartlett, and pro ultra runner Majell Backhausen
• Record-breaking cycling adventures with pro cyclist Mitch Docker
• A list of all accessible waterfalls and waterways
• Dog friendly, horse riding, trail bike riding, rock climbing, and 4WDing adventures

Read more: Majell Backhausen Ran Across the Great Forest National Park to Try & Save It

The Great Forest Guidebook outlines a range of activities for everyone | Photo by Cam Suttie

About the Great Forest National Park Proposal

There are currently a number of parks and reserves scattered and fragmented across the Central Highlands area. The proposed Great Forest National Park encompasses public land in Wurundjeri, Bunurong, Gunaikurnai and Taungurung Countries, adding 355,000 hectares to the existing 1790,000 hectares and effectively connecting it all.

The area is home to ancient rainforests and pristine waterways that supply Melbourne’s drinking water. It’s also home to the critically endangered Mountain Ash ecosystem, including threatened native animals such as Leadbeater’s possum and the Greater glider.

The proposed national park is only 60km north-east of Melbourne, making it easily accessible, and economic projections show a $71 million annual boost to the economy if the park is created. It’s expected to see an increase of 380,000 annual visitors and 750 new full-time jobs.

The Great Forest Guidebook has been developed to help preserve the area | Photo by Liam Neal

Where can I buy the Great Forest Park Guide?

The Great Forest Park Guide is for sale for $30 online. It’ll also be available in select stores in the near future.

Feature photo by Sarah Rees