Hills’ jungle move

By Tania Martin
PLANS for a second jungle style adventure park in the hills have been labelled as a step forward for the region.
Dandenong Ranges Tourism’s Michael Axel said it was a “brilliant idea”.
This follows a State Government call for expressions of interest to establish a park at the R.J Hammer Arboretum in Olinda.
Mr Axel said the park would be a significant addition to the nature based tourism now on offer in the region.
“It’s a whole new direction for the Dandenongs to go in and points in one of the ways we would like to be moving forward,” he said.
Parliamentary Secretary for Water Michael Crutchfield said Olinda was just one of five sites for adventure parks across the state.
“These new ventures, including guided canopy tours and tree obstacle courses, will deliver significant benefits for Victoria and a level of tree-based eco adventure tourism unsurpassed in Australia,” he said.
The proposed park is similar to one recently earmarked for Belgrave.
Mr Crutchfield said tree-based eco-adventures parks offered visitors a true connection with nature. “They will also mean new opportunities for investment and employment for metropolitan and regional Victoria,” he said.
Mr Crutchfield said the concept was a perfect fit for Victoria’s 10 Year Tourism and Events Strategy and Nature Based Tourism Strategy.
“It will be a popular and safe means for visitors to enjoy the health benefits of parks and forested area,” he said.
Expressions of interest can be made by contacting Parks Victoria on 13 19 63 or visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au.