Premier John Brumby tours the National Rhododendron Gardens in Olinda with local
By Tania Martin
OLINDA’S renowned National Rhododendron Gardens is just one of the state’s parks that will now offer free entry. Premier John Brumby braved the cold on Thursday last week to officially launch the free entry initiative in Olinda.
He also took the time to tour the gardens with some of the National Rhododendron Society’s volunteers. This comes as the State Government abolishes park fees in a bid to boost tourism and encourage more families to explore the great outdoors of Victoria.
Environment Minister Gavin Jennings said the move would also promote healthy living.
“Victoria has some of the most stunning parks in the world and we want to ensure all Victorians can access them and to attract even more interstate and overseas visitors,” he said.
Parks that will have free entry also include William Ricketts Sanctuary in Mt Dandenong, Wilsons Promontory, Point Nepean and Mount Buffalo national parks.
Parks Victoria estimates removing entry fees could increase visitor numbers by 25 to 50 per cent at most parks in the state.
