La Trobe MP Jason Wood announced on Monday 5 June that the $50,000 plan to install new drinking fountains at the 1000 Steps will be delivered.
As part of an election commitment, the proposal aims to not only provide users of the track with clean drinking water, but also assist in reducing rubbish left at the site.
In turn, this will greatly reduce rubbish clean-up operations from Parks Victoria rangers, with an estimated 100 hours annually dedicated to cleaning rubbish from users of the track.
Mr Wood said it was important to protect this local attraction.
“The 1000 Steps in the Dandenong Ranges have been an icon and a huge driving force for tourism since its creation in the early 1900s,” he said.
“We have seen exponential growth in the number of locals and tourists using this track, with roughly 700,000 people visiting every year.
“But, unfortunately, much of the debris created around the area comes from discarded water bottles.
“With so many people using this track each year, the amount of rubbish being left behind is becoming an issue.”
Mr Wood says the Federal Government is ensuring that local environment tourist attractions, such as this one, will be maintained and upgraded where necessary.
“We understand that the community needs these kinds of safe and serene places to foster a love of the outdoors and involvement in physical activity, while promoting tourism in the area,” Mr Wood said.
