MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK
MANAGEMENT PLAN
National Parks Service
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT
VICTORIA
JUNE 1996 This Management Plan for the Mount Buffalo National Park is approved for implementation. Its purpose is to direct all aspects of management in the Park until the Plan is reviewed. A Draft Management Plan was published in September 1992. A total of 37 submissions were received.
Copies of this Plan can be purchased from: Department of Natural Resources and Environment 57 Bridge Street BENALLA 3672
Department of Natural Resources and Environment 46 Bakers Gully Road BRIGHT 3741
Department of Natural Resources and Environment Mount Buffalo National Park Office PO Box 72 POREPUNKAH 3740
The Outdoors Information Centre Department of Natural Resources and Environment 240 Victoria Parade EAST MELBOURNE 3002
For further information on the Plan, please contact: Chief Ranger - Alpine Park Management Area NRE Bright Office Telephone: (057) 551 577 © Crown (State of Victoria) 1996 A Victoria Government Publication This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1986.
Published June 1996 by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, 240 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002.
National Library of Australia Cataloguing-in-Publication entry
Victoria. National Parks Service. Mount Buffalo National Park management plan.
Bibliography. ISBN 0 7306 6138 5
1. National parks and reserves - Victoria - Management. 2. Mount Buffalo National Park (Vic.). I. Victoria. Dept. of Natural Resources and Environment. II. Title.
333.783099455
Cover: The Cathedral (Photo: Clyde O’Donnell)
Note: In April 1996 the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (CNR) became part of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE).
Printed on 100% recycled paper to help save our natural environment
ii Mount Buffalo National Park FOREWORD
Mount Buffalo National Park has long been This Approved Plan establishes the long-term popular with visitors. Baron Ferdinand Von management framework to protect the Mueller made the first recorded ascent of the conservation and recreation values of the Park Horn in 1853 during his first field trip as while ensuring that it plays an important role in Government Botanist. In 1856 the first tourist nature-based tourism in Victoria’s north-east. party was led onto the Plateau by the Manfield The Victorian colonial government temporarily brothers. The Park now receives between reserved 1165 ha around Eurobin Falls as a 150 000 and 200 000 visitor days per year, and ‘site for a national park’ in 1898. In 1998, is one of Victoria’s best known parks. Victoria will celebrate the centenary of Mount Visitors are attracted by awe-inspiring views Buffalo National Park and parks in Victoria. and landscapes, spectacular displays of summer This will present an excellent opportunity to wildflowers, and many kilometres of walking increase people’s awareness of the Park. tracks. Each winter a mantle of snow clothes Now more than ever before, the challenge is to the plateau, enabling visitors to enjoy downhill protect this beautiful but sensitive and fragile and cross-country skiing, tobogganing, snow environment while at the same time providing play and sightseeing. continuing opportunities for visitors to enjoy the Park.
Hon Marie Tehan MP MINISTER FOR CONSERVATION and LAND MANAGEMENT
Mount Buffalo National Park iii APPROVED MANAGEMENT PLAN
This Approved Management Plan, prepared The Plan provides the basis for the future under Section 17 of the National Parks Act management of Mount Buffalo National Park. 1975 (Vic.), is approved for implementation. It was finalised following consideration of the 37 submissions received on the Draft Plan.
Mark Stone Chris McRae Director, National Parks Service Interim Regional Manager, North East
iv Mount Buffalo National Park SUMMARY
Mount Buffalo is one of Victoria’s best known The Park has some of Australia’s most and most popular national parks. Along with challenging rock climbs, and is an Wilsons Promontory, it also ranks as one of the internationally recognised venue for hang State’s oldest parks, the first small reservation gliding. being made in 1898. During the snow season the Park offers Mount Buffalo National Park (31 000 hectares) downhill and cross-country skiing particularly comprises the plateau and most of the dissected suited to beginner and intermediate skiers. It foothills of Mount Buffalo, a granite massif also offers good opportunities for family snow- separated from the western side of the Great play, tobogganing and sightseeing. Dividing Range in north-eastern Victoria. The The historic Chalet operates year round, Park is 337 kilometres by road north-east of offering prestige accommodation with a range Melbourne, between Myrtleford and of recreation facilities and opportunities for its Porepunkah. guests. Motel, lodge and backpacker Massive bluffs and near-vertical granite rock accommodation is available at Tatra Inn. faces soar a thousand metres above the Ovens Camping is available at Lake Catani from River valley. Magnificent views over the November to April. plateau and surrounding valleys and mountains The plan provides for the protection of the can be obtained from a number of lookouts. Park’s significant natural and cultural values as The plateau environment has been relatively well as visitor facilities and recreational isolated from external influences and species opportunities. interaction for millions of years, enabling A program to upgrade visitor facilities and ecological processes to develop relatively interpretation is being developed to celebrate undisturbed. This has led to the occurrence of the Park’s Centenary in 1998. The upgraded three known endemic species in the Park. facilities and interpretation will help to ensure a For most of the year the Park provides excellent quality experience for increasing number of opportunities for sightseeing, cycling, fishing, visitors. canoeing, picnicking, hang gliding, rock climbing and walking. Many kilometres of prepared tracks, including self-guided walks, lead walkers through its diverse environments.
Mount Buffalo National Park v vi Mount Buffalo National Park CONTENTS
FOREWORD iii
SUMMARY v
1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Location and planning area 1 1.2 Regional context 1 1.3 Significance of the Park 1 1.4 Creation of the Park 2 1.5 Legislation, LCC recommendations and guidelines 3 1.6 Park management aims 3
2 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 5 2.1 Park vision 5 2.2 Management directions 5 2.3 Zoning 6
3 RESOURCE CONSERVATION 10 3.1 Geological and landform features 10 3.2 Rivers and streams 10 3.3 Vegetation 11 3.4 Fauna 11 3.5 Landscape 12 3.6 Cultural heritage 13
4 PARK PROTECTION 15 4.1 Fire management 15 4.2 Pest plants and animals, and diseases 16 4.3 Soil conservation 17
5 THE PARK VISIT 18 5.1 The Park visitor 18 5.2 Visitor recreation activities and facilities 20 5.2.1 Vehicle access 20 5.2.2 Camping 21 5.2.3 Day visits 23 5.2.4 Bushwalking 24 5.2.5 Horse riding 26 5.2.6 Cross-country skiing 30 5.2.7 Oversnow vehicles 32 5.2.8 Other snow recreation 32 5.2.9 Cycling 33 5.2.10 Climbing and abseiling 33 5.2.11 Hang gliding and paragliding 34
Mount Buffalo National Park vii 5.2.12 Angling 34 5.2.13 Water based recreation 35 5.2.14 Caving 35 5.2.15 Organised and competitive events 35 5.3 Visitor information and interpretation 36 5.4 Commercial tourism operations 37 5.5 Public safety 38
6 COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT 39 6.1 Friends and volunteers 39 6.2 Community awareness and Park neighbours 39 6.3 Schools education 40
7 OTHER ISSUES 41 7.1 Authorised uses 41 7.2 Boundaries and adjacent uses 42 7.3 Park office, depot and residences 43
8 IMPLEMENTATION 45
REFERENCES 46
TABLES 1 Park management zones 7 2 Park management overlays 8 3 Details of special protection areas 9 4 Summary of recreation activities 20 5 Management of roads and tracks 22 6 Camping areas 24 7 Day visitor recreation facilities 25 8 Walking tracks 27 9 Priority management strategies 45
APPENDICES 1 Significant flora 48 2 Significant fauna 49 3 Major environmental weeds 50
FIGURES 1 Regional locality map End of plan 2 Adjacent land tenure " 3 Management zones " 4 Visitor facilities " 5 Ski trails and tracks "
viii Mount Buffalo National Park Introduction
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Location and planning area Mount Buffalo has developed a reputation as a small winter snow resort. Compared to the Mount Buffalo National Park comprises the nearby larger resorts of Mt Hotham and Falls plateau and most of the dissected foothills of Creek, it is easily accessible and has low cost Mount Buffalo, a granite massif separated from skiing and other snow recreation activities for the western side of the Great Dividing Range in beginners and families. Its downhill slopes are north-eastern Victoria. The Park is 337 particularly suited to beginners and kilometres by road north-east of Melbourne, intermediate skiers, but the snow season is south of the Ovens Highway between often shorter than at other resorts. Myrtleford and Porepunkah (figure 1). Victoria’s Alpine National Park lies 30 km east The management plan covers the 31 000 ha and 20 km south of Mount Buffalo National Park, which includes the following areas: Park. The Alpine National Park · the Mount Buffalo Reference Area (1120 (645 800 ha) contains the most extensive areas hectares); of alpine and subalpine vegetation communities in the State and offers a large range of · the North Buffalo Remote and Natural Area recreational opportunities all year round. (6500 hectares); · the commercial development areas of Tatra 1.3 Significance of the Park Inn, Cresta and Dingo Dell ski fields and the Mount Buffalo National Park is an important Chalet. component of the parks system, which aims to The Park adjoins primarily agricultural land protect viable, representative samples of the but also some State Forest (figure 2). State’s natural environments on public land. Parks also provide opportunities for visitors to 1.2 Regional context enjoy and appreciate natural and cultural The Ovens River valley is a major tourism values, and make many important contributions venue for Victoria, containing popular year to tourism. round holiday destinations such as Bright and The Mount Buffalo National Park is assigned Porepunkah. Mount Buffalo National Park is a to IUCN Category II (National Parks) of the major attraction in the area. The Park is United Nations’ List of National Parks and popular with Victorian, interstate and Protected Areas, the worldwide list of such international visitors drawing between 150 000 reserves. Category II reserves are managed and 200 000 visitor days per year. primarily for ecosystem conservation and Mount Buffalo is a convenient day trip from the appropriate recreation. Part of the Park is valley towns, and is a pleasant place to escape listed on the Register of the National Estate in the summer heat. For many visitors, Mount recognition of the area’s outstanding values and Buffalo is their only experience of its importance as part of our heritage. The alpine/subalpine environments, and this remainder of the Park and the contiguous public experience is enhanced by the easy access and land have been nominated for listing on the superb scenery. Register. The level of visitor facilities and range of Significant features of the Park are summarised recreation opportunities available help to attract below. visitors and are sufficient to satisfy the requirements of longer-term visitors accommodated within the Park itself. Few other parks in the State offer the variety of short walks and day walks found on Mount Buffalo.
Mount Buffalo National Park 1 Introduction
Natural values · Easy access for visitors to experience and appreciate the Victorian Alps. · An impressive granite massif rising sharply from the surrounding plain, · A mild summer climate, with temperatures including granite boulders, outcrops and always several degrees cooler than in the monoliths, massive bluffs and near-vertical valleys below; ideal for visitors to enjoy granite rock faces which soar a thousand the Park in summer. metres above the Ovens River valley. · Visitor facilities allow for a range of · Frost hollow environment supporting a activities during summer and winter. range of vegetation types, including · Winter activities include downhill and subalpine heaths, herb fields, grasslands cross-country skiing, tobogganing, snow and subalpine woodlands. play and sightseeing. Mount Buffalo has · Sharp altitudinal zonation of vegetation developed a reputation as the ‘family communities from the lower elevations to mountain’, with ski slopes that are ideal the subalpine plateau. for beginners, intermediates and families. · Major sites of botanical significance based · Outside the snow season activities such as on low elevation alpine vegetation (Walsh picnicking, cycling, fishing, swimming, et al. 1984). rock climbing, hang gliding, canoeing and walking are popular. · Twenty-one rare or threatened plant species, including three endemic species · A range of accommodation from the and a number of others of limited Chalet and Tatra Inn (year-round) to basic distribution (appendix 1). camping facilities at the Lake Catani Campground between November and · Habitat for a variety of native fauna, April. including nine rare or threatened species (appendix 2). · Some of Australia’s most challenging rock climbs. Cultural values · An internationally recognised venue for · The Chalet and associated buildings are hang gliding. listed on the Historic Buildings Register. · Many educational institutions visit the · Long associations with early European Park for environmental education and resource use and tourism in the alpine recreation activities. environment. · Mount Buffalo includes one of Victoria’s 1.4 Creation of the Park oldest ski resorts, including the site of The Victorian colonial government temporarily Australia’s first ski tow. reserved 1165 ha around the Eurobin Falls as a · Mount Buffalo is believed to have been ‘site for a national park’ in 1898. In 1908 the visited by Aborigines in the summer Park was expanded to over 10 500 ha, with a months to feast on Bogong moths. further 526 ha added in 1934. Following Government acceptance of the Tourism and recreational values recommendations of the Land Conservation · Spectacular scenery of imposing granite Council (LCC) for the North Eastern Study tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and Area, Districts 3, 4 and 5 (LCC 1977), the colourful wildflowers. National Parks Act 1978 provided for the addition of 20 000 ha. A small area of 2 ha · Magnificent views over the plateau, was added in 1995. surrounding valleys and the Alpine National Park from the many lookouts in the Park.
2 Mount Buffalo National Park Introduction
1.5 Legislation, LCC Parks (NPS 1995) and with other Departmental recommendations and guidelines and procedures. Other plans which guidelines will operate in conjunction with this Plan include: Mount Buffalo National Park is reserved and managed under the National Parks Act 1975. · North East Region Fire Protection Plan The Act requires the Director to preserve and (DCE 1990); protect the natural condition of the Park and its · An Interpretation Strategy for Alpine natural and other features, and to provide for Victoria (CNR 1995a). the use of the Park by the public for enjoyment, recreation and education, and for research. 1.6 Park management aims The North Buffalo Plateau was declared a Section 4 (Objects) and section 17 of the Remote and Natural Area under the National National Parks Act provide the main basis for Parks (Wilderness) Act 1992 (Vic.) following management of the Park. The following the LCC’s Wilderness Special Investigation management aims are derived from these Final Recommendations (LCC 1991). It is sections and as such broadly govern all aspects managed in accordance with the relevant of park management. provisions of the National Parks Act for remote and natural areas. Retaining the area’s remote Resource conservation and natural attributes by preventing incremental · Preserve and protect the natural development is a major legislative objective. environment. The Mount Buffalo Reference Area was proclaimed under the Reference Areas Act · Allow natural environmental processes to 1978 (Vic.) and is managed in accordance with continue with the minimum of disturbance, Ministerial directives and the relevant NRE and maintain biodiversity. guideline. Within this area, which forms a · Conserve features of archaeological, reference for comparative study purposes, historic and cultural significance. natural processes will be allowed to continue undisturbed. Park protection The Transport Act 1983 (Vic.) specifically · Protect water catchments and streams. covers maintenance of the Mount Buffalo Tourist Road by VicRoads. · Protect human life, the Park and adjacent lands from injury by fire. The Land Conservation Council’s specific recommendations (LCC 1977) include: · Eradicate or otherwise control introduced plants, animals and diseases. · existing grazing licences to be cancelled; · no further ski lifts or tows to be developed The Park visit in new localities on the Plateau; · Provide opportunities for appropriate · facilities for skiing may be developed recreation and tourism. adjacent to areas currently used for this · Promote and encourage an appreciation, purpose. understanding and enjoyment of the Park’s The LCC (1991) also permitted the natural and cultural values and its establishment of a remote campsite in the North recreational opportunities. Buffalo Plateau Remote and Natural Area if · Encourage appropriate park use and required, to reduce the impact of camping on behaviour and foster a conservation ethic natural values. in visitors. The Park is managed in accordance with · Take reasonable steps to ensure the safety Department of Natural Resources and of visitors. Environment guidelines for management of
Mount Buffalo National Park 3 Introduction
Other · Provide for and encourage scientific research, surveys and monitoring that will contribute to better understanding and management of the Park. · Co-operate with local, State and interstate government authorities, the community and other interested organisations to assist in the management of the Park.
4 Mount Buffalo National Park Strategic directions
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
2.1 Park vision qualities of the Park. Interpretative signs on self-guided nature walks present the natural and Future visitors to Mount Buffalo National Park cultural heritage of the Park in an interesting will be presented, as they are today, with form. spectacular scenery of tall forests, imposing granite outcrops, gorges and tors, tumbling The Park’s Centenary celebrations offered waterfalls, magnificent snow gum woodlands many and varied activities that helped to raise and open plains carpeted with colourful the profile of the area and focused attention on wildflowers in summer and blanketed with the importance of a properly managed national snow in winter. From many of the superb parks system for the State of Victoria. The vantage points on the plateau, breath-taking upgraded visitor facilities and interpretation views of the Australian Alps and surrounding have enabled the Park to cope with an increase picturesque valleys give visitors a unique in the number of visitors while retaining quality experience. experiences. Joint marketing of the Park with the lessee of the Chalet and Tatra Inn and with The majestic Mount Buffalo Chalet, through the local tourism industry continues to attract careful restoration and interpretation, retains steady visitor numbers. significant social, historic and cultural ties with the park and is linked closely with the The great interest displayed by the local management of the Park. Accommodation is community, particularly through the strong and focused at the Chalet, Tatra Inn and the Lake active Friends of Mount Buffalo National Park Catani camping area, offering a wide range of group, other volunteer groups and neighbours, overnight opportunities for Park visitors. is integral to the care and protection of the Park. This interest will ensure a well-managed The high level of management of the Park and well-visited park system, one that offers ensures ongoing protection of its significant enjoyment and inspiration for generations into natural and cultural values, and maintains the future. quality facilities and recreational opportunities at appropriate levels and locations throughout 2.2 Management directions the Park for the many Park visitors. Park neighbours are impressed by the extent of pest Major management directions for the Park are plant and animal control undertaken around the outlined below. Park boundary. Resource conservation Mount Buffalo National Park continues to have a reputation for excellent facilities supporting a · Significant natural and cultural features range of activities. Downhill skiing is offered at will be given special protection, the Mount Buffalo Alpine Resort and cross- particularly those natural values in the country skiers are catered for by a variety of alpine/subalpine area. marked and groomed trails adjacent to the · To protect the significant environment, Resort as well as backcountry skiing in remote major developments on the plateau will be parts of the Park. Many kilometres of well- restricted to the Recreation Development maintained walking tracks allow walkers to Zone, except for the upgrading of the discover the Park’s diverse and stimulating combined Park Office and visitor environment. Visitors’ enjoyment of the Park is interpretation and orientation centre. further enhanced by high quality visitor information presented in informative and · The North Buffalo Plateau Remote and stimulating displays at the Park Office, Natural Area will remain essentially upgraded interpretation facilities around the undeveloped. Park, publications, and talks covering a wide spectrum of topics relating to the unique
Mount Buffalo National Park 5 Strategic directions
Park protection · Increased awareness and understanding of the Park, the Parks system and its value · The subalpine areas of the Park are will be encouraged among visitors, planned not to be burnt to reduce forest students, the community and Park fuels, except for asset protection around neighbours. the Chalet, Tatra Inn, the Park Office and adjacent land. 2.3 Zoning · Pest plant and animal control focusing on A park management zoning scheme has been the identification of key sites, target developed to: species and methods of control will be undertaken. · provide a geographic framework in which to manage the Park; · Water catchments, water quality and streams will be protected. · indicate which management directions have priority in different parts of the Park; The Park visit · indicate the types and levels of use · Visitor surveys will be conducted to better appropriate throughout the Park; determine visitors’ needs and attitudes, and · assist in minimising existing and potential their level of satisfaction. conflicts between uses and activities, or · Visitor enjoyment of the Park will be between those and the protection of park enhanced by improved interpretation that values; encourages visitors to experience and · provide a basis for assessing the suitability understand the diverse range of of future activities and development environments and natural processes in the proposals. Park. Four management zones apply to the Park - · Day visitor facilities will be improved. Reference Area; Conservation; Conservation · A well-signed and upgraded walking track and Recreation; and Recreation Development. network will be maintained, presenting a In addition, Special Protection Area, Special range of walking opportunities. Management Area - Management Facility, · Existing vehicle-based camping facilities Special Management Area - Snow Recreation; at Lake Catani will be maintained. and a land use designation - Remote and Natural Area - are used to summarise · Horse riding will be managed to minimise additional requirements to those of the its potential impact on conservation values underlying management zones. and other Park visitors. Tables 1, 2 and 3 show the characteristics of Community awareness and involvement management zones and overlays, and figure 3 shows their locations. · Encouragement and assistance will be given to volunteer groups to undertake appropriate management tasks in the Park. · NRE will co-operate with land holders adjacent to the Park in the protection of both private property and public land from fire, pests and other hazards.
6 Mount Buffalo National Park Strategic directions TABLE 1 PARK MANAGEMENT ZONES
ZONES
REFERENCE AREA CONSERVATION CONSERVATION AND RECREATION DEVELOPMENT RECREATION
AREA 1240 ha; 4% of Park. The 5890 ha; 19% of Park. Most 23 870 ha; 77% of Park. 125 ha; 0.5% of Park. Main Mount Buffalo Reference sensitive subalpine area. Foothills and slopes, below the visitor areas including Tatra, Area. sub-alpine area. Cresta, downhill ski slopes, tobogganing areas, the Chalet, the Gorge and the Lake Catani area. VALUES Relatively undisturbed land Broad areas containing sensitive Important natural values Sites which are developed or types and associated natural environments or capable of sustaining planned to be developed as vegetation. ecosystems unable to sustain the significant levels of dispersed recreation sites for large impact of significant levels of recreational activities without numbers of visitors. dispersed recreation activities or significant impact on the other uses. area’s natural values.
GENERAL Protect viable samples of Protect sensitive natural Protect less sensitive natural Provide primarily for high use MANAGEMENT AIM relatively undisturbed land environments and provide for environments and provide for visitor nodes with a types for comparative study minimal impact recreational sustainable dispersed concentration of recreation or of similar land types activities and simple visitor recreation activities and small- interpretation facilities. elsewhere by keeping all facilities, subject to ensuring scale recreation facilities human interference to the minimal impact on natural without significant impact on essential minimum and processes. natural resources. ensuring as far as practicable that the only long-term change results from natural processes.
Mount Buffalo National Park 7 Strategic directions TABLE 2 PARK MANAGEMENT OVERLAYS
OVERLAYS
SPECIAL MANAGEMENT SPECIAL MANAGEMENT LAND USE DESIGNATION SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA AREA - SNOW RECREATION AREA - MANAGEMENT - REMOTE & NATURAL AREA FACILITY
AREA/LOCATION 130 ha, 0.5% of Park. Approx. 3 ha adjacent to 6500 ha, 23.7% of Park. The 134 ha, 0.5% of Park. Various South of Cresta Valley. Mount Buffalo Tourist area of the North Plateau locations - refer to table 3 for Road, 300 m south of centred on Mt McLeod and details. Tuckerbox Corner (not bounded by Buffalo Creek to mapped). the east, and the plateau escarpment bordering the Buffalo River valley to the west.
VALUES Cross-country skiiing areas. Park Interpretation, Remote and natural attributes Significant plant species or Orientation and (included on Schedule 6 of the communities or wildlife habitats, Administration Centre, and National Parks Act). and sites of particular Ranger accommodation. archaeological, geological or landscape significance.
GENERAL Provide especially for snow Provide especially for Provide for additional specific Focus management on protecting MANAGEMENT recreation facilities. management facilities and legislative requirements in specific natural or cultural AIM visitor information. accordance with the relevant values in specific areas and sites. provisions of the National Parks Act.
8 Mount Buffalo National Park Strategic directions
TABLE 3 DETAILS OF SPECIAL PROTECTION AREAS
SITE NO. SIGNIFICANT FEATURES SECTION IN PLAN (FIGURE 3)
1 Buffalo Sallow Wattle (Acacia phlebophylla) 3.3, 3.4 Fern-leaf Baeckea (Baeckea crenatifloia) Spotted Tree Frog (Litoria spenceri) 2-3 Fern-leaf Baeckea (Baeckea crenatifloia) 3.3 4 Buffalo Sallow Wattle (Acacia phlebophylla) 3.3 Fern-leak Baeckea (Baeckea crenatifloia) 5 Snow Pratia (Pratia gelida) 3.3 6-10 Buffalo Mint-bush (Prostanthera monticola) 3.3 11-13 Buffalo Sallee (Eucalyptus mitchelliana) 3.3 14-16 Aboriginal Site 3.6 17 Alpine Silver Xenica (Oreixenica latialis theddora) 3.4 18 Broad-toothed Rat (Mastacomys fuscus) 3.4 19 Aboriginal Site 3.6
Mount Buffalo National Park 9 Resource conservation
3 RESOURCE CONSERVATION
3.1 Geological and landform · Promote the use of minimal impact rock features climbing techniques. Mount Buffalo is a granite massif projecting above the surrounding foothills of sedimentary 3.2 Rivers and streams sandstones and shales, which are also Catchments in the Park provide domestic water represented within the Park. The massif is in supplies for local towns and irrigation. The the form of a plateau with a mildly dissected Park forms part of the Ovens River surface and steep escarpments along its (Wangaratta) and Buffalo River (Lake Buffalo) margins. Particular features of interest are the proclaimed water supply catchments, making tor boulders, waterfalls and cliff faces. an important contribution to the flows of the Large boulders and cliffs on the Plateau and Ovens, Buckland and Buffalo Rivers. escarpments are popular for climbing and NRE is responsible for water catchment abseiling. management within the Park, while the Ovens Leaching from existing metal railings and Region Water Board is responsible for water plaques at lookout points has destroyed the management. natural covering of lichens and bryophytes on The Park has a high annual rainfall, with rock faces, exposing bare rock surfaces and annual maxima of over 2500 mm at higher detracting from their visual qualities. This is elevations. Snow contributes significantly to particularly noticeable on the Horn. total precipitation above 1200 metres. Water No recent detailed surveys have been conducted quality from the Park is high. In alpine to identify sites of geological and vegetation, Sphagnum moss beds, which are of geomorphological significance. great significance for water production, are very susceptible to physical damage. Aims Increase in sediment input to rivers and streams · Protect and maintain the natural, aesthetic as a result of human activities has been listed as and scientific values of geological and a potentially threatening process under the landform features. Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic.).
· Allow responsible recreational use of the Aims granite cliffs and tors. · Protect and manage water catchments to Management strategies ensure a continuing supply of high quality water. · Identify sites of geological and geomorphological significance and develop · Minimise environmental damage associated measures for their protection, as with the provision of the water supply. appropriate. Management strategies · Ensure all new and replacement railings · Incorporate water catchment values as a and structures at lookout points are principal design consideration when designed and erected so that impacts on planning and performing fire suppression, rock surfaces (and vegetation) are fuel reduction burning and roading, minimised. particularly in the Buffalo Creek catchment (Myrtleford’s domestic water supply). · Provide general interpretive materials about the Park’s geological and landform · Protect moss beds and other sensitive areas features, with specific interpretive from damage by recreation activities materials at key sites (section 5.3). (sections 5.2.4 & 5.2.5).
10 Mount Buffalo National Park Resource conservation
3.3 Vegetation · Minimise damage to vegetation communities caused by management and Mount Buffalo National Park contains a visitor activities. diverse array of vegetation types and plant species, occupying a range of habitats extending over an elevation range of 1400 3.4 Fauna metres. Vegetation communities within the There is little information available on the Park have not been adequately surveyed or distribution, types, abundance and habitats of mapped. Habitats include alpine and subalpine the Park’s vertebrate and invertebrate fauna. environments, lower elevation forests, exposed Limited information obtained from the Atlas of and sheltered slopes, and rocky outcrops. Over Victorian Wildlife (NRE database a) lists 20 550 native species are listed as occurring in the species of mammals, 134 of birds, 16 of Park (Beauglehole 1988). The most significant reptiles, 7 of amphibians and 6 of fish for the vegetation communities are the alpine and Park. subalpine communities. Walsh et al. (1984) identified areas of low alpine vegetation on the Nine rare or threatened species are found in the Plateau as major sites of botanical significance. Park, including a number of unconfirmed Two of the Park’s vegetation communities and sightings of several species (appendix 2). A one plant species have been listed under the species of butterfly endemic to Mount Buffalo Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (appendix 1). has been identified from the subalpine areas Twenty-one rare or threatened species occur in (appendix 2). The Spotted Tree Frog has the Park, three of them being endemic to the disappeared from the historic location at Park (appendix 1). Rollasons Falls; the frog’s status is unknown in other streams in the Park because of access Aims difficulties (Gillespie 1993; Gillespie & Hollis in preparation). · Conserve native plant communities and significant species in their natural condition, Information is required on the distribution, and maintain genetic diversity. ecology and management requirements of many of the Park’s significant fauna, in particular · Provide special protection for, and increase rare or threatened species (appendix 2). knowledge of, significant plant communities and species. Hand feeding of native fauna, and in particular feeding Crimson Rosellas around the Chalet · Revegetate degraded areas. with food scraps and seed purchased from the Chalet, is a popular tourist attraction of the Management strategies Park. This may have serious implications for · Document and map vegetation communities human and animal health and population in the Park. Develop a computer-based numbers. At present, the seed sold by the sites register for significant sites. Chalet is suitable for the birds and poses no weed threat. · Manage Flora and Fauna Guarantee listed species and communities (appendix 1) Rock climbing and abseiling activities have the according to approved Action Statements. potential to interfere with Peregrine Falcons nesting in the Park (section 5.2.10). · Encourage research into the status, distribution, ecology and management requirements of significant plant species (appendix 1).
· Prepare a vegetation management strategy for the Park, concentrating on alpine and subalpine communities, sites of significant species and areas to be revegetated.
Mount Buffalo National Park 11 Resource conservation
Aims views within the Park, and management of views of the Park from the surrounding · Protect native fauna from management and country. visitor activities, and maintain genetic diversity. Based on a formal framework for landscape resource management (Leonard & Hammond · Provide special protection for, and increase 1984) much of the Park is classified as being of knowledge of, significant species. the highest level of public concern for visual Management strategies management. Such areas are highly sensitive to visual intrusion. · Manage Flora and Fauna Guarantee listed species (appendix 2) according to approved A report assessing the landscape aspects of the Action Statements. Buffalo Plateau as seen from the Chalet and Mount Buffalo Tourist Roads concluded that · Encourage research into and surveys of the areas most likely to suffer landscape significant fauna (appendix 2) to identify alteration are the high use areas on the Plateau their distribution and ecological associated with the Tourist Road (Sandford requirements, and manage accordingly. 1987). Existing facilities on the Plateau vary in their · Manage visitor activities at Rollasons Falls visual impact. A number of developments do to minimise impacts on potential Spotted not meet appropriate visual quality standards. Tree Frog habitat. There is considerable scope for rationalising, redeveloping and visually improving existing · Minimise disturbance to known habitats of facilities. the Alpine Silver Xenica; encourage research into the species’ ecology. Thousands of sightseers annually visit the Gorge, Mackeys Lookout and the Horn · Encourage the survey of streams in the Lookout. Poorly sited and designed buildings Park to determine native fish populations. and changes in land management practices can reduce the quality of the view from these sites. · Do not permit the feeding of the Park’s fauna, except for Crimson Rosellas at the Aims Gorge with birdseed purchased from the · Protect natural landscapes, with special Chalet shop. Discourage this feeding emphasis on areas of greatest scenic quality through signage and education of visitors. and viewer interest. · Maintain a high standard of visual 3.5 Landscape management throughout the Park, including Mount Buffalo National Park is typified by a all facilities. heavily forested ridge and spur system standing · Minimise visual impacts on natural above the surrounding topography. At the landscapes, especially from major viewing highest elevations, tree vegetation becomes areas. noticeably sparse and extensive granite outcrops are common. The Plateau is generally · Mitigate or remove existing visual characterised by a more or less undulating intrusions. terrain with broad open valleys, massive rock outcrops, local low residual hills and frost Management strategies hollows. Spectacular views of the Alps and · Evaluate the relative impact of future surrounding river valleys can be gained from management actions on visual resource the many lookouts within the Park. values, using the Sandford (1987) report as There are two aspects to landscape a basis. management at Mount Buffalo: management of
12 Mount Buffalo National Park Resource conservation
· Ensure all developments are in accordance In the early days of European settlement with NPS guideline 15.4R. graziers often led cattle up to the Plateau in search of summer pasture. The first recorded · Seek to improve the visual amenity of the ascent was made in 1853 by the botanists following areas in consultation with Baron Von Mueller and John Dallachy, relevant authorities: although it is believed that Von Mueller was guided up by local grazier Thomas Buckland · Park office complex; by way of Goldie Spur, a route Buckland and · VicRoads (section 7.1.2); his head stockman William Goldie may have · Dingo Dell car park area; used previously. · Hospice Plain overhead Telstra lines (section 7.1.2). Local miners in search of gold also took an interest in Mount Buffalo. Two miners, James · Encourage the Alpine Shire to ensure that and John Manfield, climbed the mountain in planning controls give appropriate 1854. Two years later they led the first tourist protection to landscapes. party up to the Plateau and later Guide Alice (Alice Manfield) took visitors up by horse and foot. This was the beginning of Mount 3.6 Cultural heritage Buffalo’s use as a tourist destination. Aboriginal culture The first substantial buildings were erected on the Plateau in the late 1880s. Edward Carlile Mount Buffalo is thought to be part of the built his hospice on the plain below the traditional lands of the Minjambuta, a group of Monolith. Soon after, the first of the the Pangerang tribe. Before European Manfields’ chalets was built near the Gorge. settlement, the Minjambuta are believed to have occupied the upper reaches of the Ovens, In 1908 a road to the Plateau was completed Buffalo, King, and Broken Rivers, east of and finances were allocated to build a Violet Town and south to the Dividing Range. government chalet. The Chalet, located at the They are likely to have spent most of the year Gorge, was built by the Victorian Government on the surrounding plains, visiting Mount and opened in 1910. The Victorian Railways Buffalo in summer primarily to feast on took over its management in 1924. The Bogong Moths. original building was constructed from Alpine Ash cut and milled on the site. Major When Europeans arrived the numbers of alterations and extensions were made in 1922 Minjambuta diminished rapidly, mainly through and 1937-38, including the addition of a second diseases such as influenza and measles. Today, storey to the main building. little evidence of Aboriginal occupation remains on Mount Buffalo. Two campsites have been The Chalet is of cultural significance because recorded on the Plateau, including one that was of its social and historic value, and to a lesser mostly flooded by Lake Catani. Other sites degree because of its architectural value. have been reported at lower altitudes in the The Chalet is listed on the register of the Park, but their exact locations and current National Trust of Australia (Victoria), and the condition have not been established. A survey Register of Historic Buildings. Permission is in 1991 located an additional site, a scarred required from the Heritage Council before any tree, at Eurobin Creek. buildings, structures or relics may be altered, improved or removed. Permission is also European settlement required for any works adjacent to the listed Hume and Hovell, in 1824, were the first buildings. Europeans to see Mount Buffalo and named the Since late last century, Mount Buffalo has Mountain for its resemblance to a buffalo lying offered year-round accommodation for visitors, on its side. ice skating and skiing both being popular winter activities. Ski runs were developed at Cresta
Mount Buffalo National Park 13 Resource conservation
Valley and Dingo Dell, the latter being the site Management strategies of the first ski tow in Australia (1936). · Manage archaeological and historic sites In 1964 Tatra Pty Ltd was granted a lease to in accordance with NPS guidelines (NPS provide accommodation and ski lifts at Cresta 1995). Prepare action statements for the Valley. In 1975 the then Ministry for management of significant sites. Conservation purchased the developments from Tatra Pty Ltd, leased the accommodation, and · Liaise with Camp Jungai Co-operative Ltd managed and operated both Cresta Valley and and the Heritage Services Branch, Dingo Dell ski runs. Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, in relation to the identification and management of The management of the Chalet, Tatra Inn and Aboriginal sites. both Cresta Valley and Dingo Dell ski runs are leased to the private sector. · Support archaeological surveys and documentary research to identify sites Aims requiring management and protection. · Protect sites of Aboriginal archaeological, historical and architectural significance. · Manage historic sites consistent with NRE guidelines and the Burra Charter of · Interpret selected historic sites and artefacts. Australia for the International Council on · Encourage further research into sites of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS 1988). archaeological and historical interest. · Ensure the lessee of the Chalet obtains the · Promote greater understanding of the permission of the Heritage Council before environmental changes resulting from altering, improving or removing any European settlement. buildings, structures or relics, or undertaking any new works in the lease area.
· Ensure the lessee of the Chalet consults with Historic Places Section when developing proposals for altering, improving or removing any buildings, structures or relics, or undertaking any new works in the lease area.
14 Mount Buffalo National Park Park protection
4 PARK PROTECTION
4.1 Fire management · Prepare and implement a Fire Management Strategy for the Park integrated with the The National Parks Act requires the Director of North East Region Fire Protection Plan, National Parks to ensure that appropriate and recognising the need to: sufficient measures are taken to protect parks from injury by fire. The North East Region · integrate any burning for ecological Fire Protection Plan (DCE 1990) identifies conservation with fuel reduction strategic fire protection requirements, including burning; fire protection access, helipads, water supplies · conduct other ecological burns as and a detailed fuel reduction burning strategy. required; · prescribe fire control strategies that Fire management is based around four burning cause minimum disturbance during zones identified in the Fire Protection Plan, wildfire suppression. ranging from Priority 1 (frequent fuel reduction) to ‘planned not to be burnt’ zones. · Monitor the impact of fuel reduction The use of earthmoving machinery in alpine burning on fuel loads, collate the findings and subalpine vegetation is undesirable because of research into the ecological effects of of the slow regeneration of the vegetation and fire, and review the Fire Management the potential for soil erosion, but may be Strategy in the light of new information, as necessary in extreme circumstances. appropriate. Visitors may be at some risk from wildfire during the fire danger period. Visitor education · Publicise and enforce regulations and and sensible precautions can reduce these risks restrictions on the use of fire within the greatly. Section 5.5 deals with public safety. Park.
Assets such as the Chalet and Tatra Inn need to · Rehabilitate fire control lines and other be protected from fire. disturbed areas resulting from fires and Some flora and fauna species and communities fire suppression activities as soon as depend on fire for their survival. Fire possible after a fire. management must balance the needs of single plant and animal species and those of whole · Encourage research into the fire ecology of communities. Lack of research has restricted the Park’s vegetation communities and the use of fire as an ecological management tool associated fauna. in the Park. It is desirable to integrate fuel reduction burning and burning for ecological · Require that the following least- purposes within appropriate fire regimes to disturbance strategies be used in wildfire achieve both fire protection and ecological suppression in the Park, unless absolutely objectives. necessary: · fireline construction by hand crews to Aims minimise the use of earth-moving · Protect human life, property and Park equipment; values from injury by fire. · air attack to drop water or foam in preference to other chemical retardants; · Minimise the adverse effects of fire and fire · using existing roads and tracks or suppression methods on Park values. topographic features as control lines; · Maintain fire regimes appropriate to the · excluding the use of earth-moving conservation of viable populations of equipment to control wildfires in the indigenous flora and fauna. Reference Area Zone and Conservation Zone. Management strategies
Mount Buffalo National Park 15 Park protection
4.2 Pest plants and animals, and threatened. It is not known how the disease is diseases spread, although foxes may be implicated.
Beauglehole (1988) lists nearly 100 non- Aims indigenous plants in the Park. Twenty-one of these are classified as major environmental · Control, and where possible eradicate, non- weeds (appendix 3). indigenous plants and animals. Himalayan Honeysuckle is of major concern as · Minimise the further establishment and it poses a serious threat within the Park’s drier spread of non-indigenous plants, animals forests. It is well established in the Eurobin and diseases. Creek and Kangaroo Creek catchments. · Co-operate with adjoining landowners to Control programs have proved very difficult control non-indigenous plants and animals. because of the steep terrain. The infestation continues to spread through undisturbed · Minimise the impact of control programs on bushland. native flora and fauna. Blackberry, St John’s Wort and Tutsan · Restore native vegetation to areas where infestations occur adjacent to the western non-indigenous plants have been removed. boundary of the Reference Area along Sandy Management strategies Creek Track. · Prepare a pest management strategy for the Many exotic herbs and grasses found in the Park which details species and areas to be alpine grasslands and heaths were introduced treated and methods of control (appendix either accidentally by grazing, or deliberately to 3), recognising the need to: control erosion on road cuttings and ski runs. · give priority to controlling Himalayan Formal gardens are an important component of Honeysuckle and infestations of Milfoil, the historic setting of the Chalet. While they Jointed Rush and Feverfew, and to add to its character, they contain many Blackberry, St John’s Wort and Tutsan introduced species, and occasional escapes adjacent to the Reference Area; from the gardens have colonised other areas of · control Blackberry along Park the Plateau. boundaries and in visitor use areas and Five introduced animal species are found in the isolated infestations; Park. Wild dogs, cats and foxes are the major · co-ordinate pest plant and animal predators. The predation of native wildlife by control efforts to complement those of the introduced Red Fox has been listed as a the lessee of the Chalet and Tatra Inn threatening process under the Flora and Fauna and on adjacent freehold land; Guarantee Act. Rabbits are not widespread in · undertake wild dog control, particularly the Park, but are found in several locations on along those sections of the Park the plateau and in cleared areas adjoining boundary where primary production is private property. Their numbers are relatively undertaken on neighbouring land; low, but given the right conditions they have the · undertake a fox control program for the potential to breed quickly and cause significant Park. damage to plant communities. Deer are · Undertake feral cat control around widespread in the lower elevations of the Park. Lake Catani Campground, the Chalet There are no known forest pathogens present in and Tatra Inn. the Park, and sarcoptic mange is the only · Retain the formal garden at the Chalet but serious disease affecting fauna in the Park. seek to remove and replace invasive This disease currently only affects wombats. If introduced species. its present spread remains unchecked the overall well-being of the species will be · Encourage the use of indigenous species for re-vegetation projects, particularly on
16 Mount Buffalo National Park Park protection
ski-runs and in all landscape and amenity Fire suppression frequently involves planning. construction of firebreaks using machines or hand tools. Fuel reduction burning removes the · Minimise or avoid the introduction and litter layer and many smaller plants on the spread of introduced plants and diseases forest floor, temporarily increasing the risk of by minimising soil disturbance and seed greater water run-off and soil erosion. transport on equipment during wildfire suppression, road maintenance and Aims facility development works. · Prevent and control soil erosion caused by visitor and management activities. · Encourage research into sarcoptic mange on wombats in the Park. · Revegetate disturbed areas with indigenous species.
4.3 Soil conservation Management strategies Erosion is a natural process which has helped · Regularly maintain all roads and tracks to shape the existing landscape of Mount Buffalo. minimise erosion. Where practicable, on Low winter temperatures, a short growing less frequently used roads and tracks, season and frost heave combine to make soils maintain a leaf litter or low vegetation very susceptible to erosion by wind and water. cover. Natural agents such as plant diseases, drought and fire can remove or reduce vegetation over · Minimise soil disturbance during fire large areas, leaving the soil exposed to erosion management operations. by water, wind and frost. The effect of heavy rainfall was dramatically illustrated in 1993 · Monitor soil erosion at Lake Catani when rain caused many large landslips and Campground and undertake soil there was extensive soil loss and disturbance to stabilisation works as required. stream banks on the plateau. The Park’s soil types have been described by · Monitor and maintain recreation facilities Rowe (1984), and are broadly characterised by and areas of high recreational use to vegetation community associated with minimise soil erosion. elevation. On the drier, lower slopes of the · Use land capability studies to assist in Park weakly bleached reddish brown determining the most appropriate location gradational and coarse sandy soils of uniform for any future developments. texture are typical. The soils gradually change to friable brown gradational soils as the · Adopt guidelines for alpine resorts (ARC environment becomes damper. On the plateau, 1992, in press) to minimise soil erosion and particularly along drainage lines, rich during ski slope and ski trail development, organic loams occur, with wet peat, dry peat stabilisation and maintenance works. and humidified peat soils. Recreation activities such as walking, skiing and horse riding have the potential to increase soil loss. Downhill skiing facilities at Cresta Valley and Dingo Dell, cross country ski trails and snow play areas can also contribute to soil erosion. Construction involving significant earthworks, road and track construction and maintenance all cause soil erosion and sedimentation of streams. Proper siting of roads and tracks and regular maintenance of drainage greatly reduce these risks.
Mount Buffalo National Park 17 The Park visit
5 THE PARK VISIT
5.1 The Park visitor experience is enhanced by easy access and superb scenery. Mount Buffalo National Park offers a range of visitor experiences all year round. Tourism promotion and marketing of Mount Buffalo needs to result from a co-operative and For most of the year the Park offers excellent co-ordinated approach between NRE, the opportunities for sight-seeing, cycling, fishing, lessees of the Chalet and Tatra Inn and the local canoeing, picnicking, hang gliding, rock tourist industry to maximise benefits. climbing and walking. Many kilometres of prepared tracks lead walkers through diverse It is important that the stimulation of tourism environments. by development and promotion is carried out within the constraints of a main management The Park is able to cater for a large number of objective for national parks: to preserve and visitors but still minimise the impact of protect the natural environment, and conserve activities by providing facilities at small flora and fauna. If this cannot be successfully discrete sites that can cope with visitation. achieved, the very attractions that bring visitors The Park has some of Australia’s most to Mount Buffalo may be compromised by challenging rock climbs and is internationally visitor impacts. recognised as a venue for hang gliding. The Centenary of the National Park in 1998 During the snow season the Park offers will be an excellent opportunity to celebrate downhill and cross-country skiing particularly 100 years of National Parks in Victoria and suited to beginner and intermediate skiers. It is will increase public awareness and appreciation also good for family snow-play, tobogganing of the Park. Visitor numbers are expected to and snow season sight-seeing. increase as a result of the Centenary. Year-round accommodation at the Chalet and Providing for the visitor Tatra Inn gives visitors unique experiences through easy access to a range of recreation Mount Buffalo National Park offers activities in an alpine environment. Camping is opportunities for the following types of visitors. available at Lake Catani during November to Day visitors April. · Visitors in two-wheel drive vehicles who The Park is visited at a rate of between enjoy easily accessible and short walks 150 000 and 200 000 visitor days annually. with high quality facilities and The Ovens River valley is a major tourism interpretation. The Gorge and Lake Catani venue for Victoria, containing popular year- area are the major attraction. round holiday destinations such as Bright and · Visitors seeking longer day walks along Porepunkah. Mount Buffalo National Park is a well-defined tracks offering alpine views in key element in tourism in north-east Victoria more remote settings. (VTC 1987). The Park would be an important component of any tourism strategies developed · Downhill skiers seeking novice to for the nearby Alpine National Park or the intermediate slopes within the development Ovens River valley. The Park is popular with of the Alpine Resort. Victorian, interstate and international visitors. · Cross-country skiers seeking groomed Mount Buffalo makes a convenient day trip trails or backcountry skiing in more from the valley towns, and is a pleasant place remote areas. to escape the summer heat. For many visitors, · Groups from educational institutions on Mount Buffalo is their only experience of field study excursions. alpine and subalpine environments, and this Overnight visitors
18 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
· Visitors seeking the ‘Old World Management strategies Guesthouse Charm’ of The Chalet. · Provide facilities and services which · Visitors seeking resort style highlight, but are in keeping with, the accommodation at Tatra Inn. area’s distinctive character (sections 5.2, 5.3 and tables 5, 6, 7 and 8). · Self-reliant visitors, including families and those from educational institutions, staying · Permit recreation activities in accordance at the Lake Catani Campground. with table 4. Most of the prominent natural features of the Park are close to the Mount Buffalo Tourist · Prepare a Park Centenary Program aimed Road. This allows the Park to cater for a high at increasing public awareness and number of people in a relatively small area. It understanding of the Park and enhancing also meets the needs of the aged and families visitor enjoyment through improved visitor with young children. services, information, interpretation, facilities and displays. The Park will continue to focus attention on redesign and upgrading of existing facilities · Conduct on-going visitor surveys to rather than developing new areas. ascertain visitor needs and attitudes and Visitors will appreciate improved Park visitors’ levels of satisfaction. orientation at the Park entrance and better presentation of visitor information at the Park · Direct management actions towards Office. ensuring a high quality experience for visitors. Campers will benefit from improved facilities at Lake Catani and the added opportunity for · Monitor visitor use to determine levels of backcountry camping on the North Plateau and recreational activity consistent with on Rocky Creek. protecting recreational experiences and The Chalet will continue restoration work on park values and to ensure adequate the historic buildings and improve provision of facilities consistent with accommodation facilities. Skiers will benefit appropriate types and levels of use. from high quality skiing facilities at Cresta · Encourage all visitors to adopt minimum Valley and adjacent areas for cross-country impact techniques and to adhere to codes skiing. Horse riding from the Chalet will of conduct appropriate to their activity. continue, with limits to reduce physical and social impacts. · Maintain interpretive activities as an Aims important part of the Park experience for school groups and other visitors. · Identify market segments and develop an understanding of segment proportions, · Improve day visitor facilities at a range of profiles, attitudes, expectations and needs. locations throughout the Park, including · Provide for a relatively high number of the focal points of The Gorge, The Horn, visitors in a small area of the Park, through Dickson’s Falls, Lake Catani and the Park high quality facilities, programs and natural Entrance, and a variety of other lower use settings for visitors in accordance with the areas. above overview of future management for visitors. · Maintain a well-signed and upgraded walking track network to provide a range of · Ensure that visitor use has minimal impact walking opportunities, with shorter well- on the Park and is not detrimental to the interpreted walks near major focal points, Park’s natural values. and longer strenuous walks in the more remote areas of the Park.
Mount Buffalo National Park 19 The Park visit
TABLE 4 SUMMARY OF RECREATION ACTIVITIES
ZONES
ACTIVITY REFERENCE CONSERVATION CONSERVATION RECREATION AREA AND DEVELOPMENT RECREATION Walking N Y Y Y Bush camping N YC YC YC Cross-country N Y Y Y skiing Snow camping N YC N YC Vehicle-based N N YC YC camping Horse riding N YC YC N Fishing N Y Y Y Organised or N Y Y Y competitive events Canoeing and N/A N/A Y Y boating Bicycle riding N YC YC Y Climbing and N Y Y Y abseiling Dogs N N N N
KEY: Y Permitted under normal prescriptions or conditions. YC Permitted under special conditions - see appropriate section in the Plan. N Not permitted. N/A Not applicable
· Maintain and upgrade existing vehicle Buffalo and to the remote parts of the Park, for based camping facilities at Lake Catani visitors and management. The Mount Buffalo through ongoing revegetation works and a Tourist Road is the major access from facilities development program, ensuring Porepunkah to the base of the Park’s highest that the semi-secluded nature of the peak, the Horn, and to the Chalet. The whole camping area is retained. of the Road, including the spur road to the Chalet, is declared as a ‘Tourist Road’ under · Monitor and manage the full range of the Transport Act. Permanent works and recreation activities to minimise any maintenance of the Road are therefore a potential impact on the conservation values responsibility of VicRoads and regulations of the Park, and to ensure a quality made under the Transport Act apply. The Park experience for Park visitors. Regulations 1992 also apply to the sections of the Road which are within the Park. VicRoads’ 5.2 Visitor recreation activities and responsibilities for the Tourist Road include facilities surface maintenance and reconstruction works, road safety, patrol and snow-clearing. (The 5.2.1 Vehicle access lessee is responsible for snow clearing in the lease area). Snow clearing is undertaken in The Park’s road and track system gives access accordance with procedures and priorities to the tourist and scenic features of Mount developed in consultation with NRE. Sections
20 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
of the Tourist Road are often prone to ice. · Install barriers on the Lake Catani Gritting (spreading a mixture of coarse sand Entrance Road at the Campground entry and salt) is used to improve traction and de-ice points. Open the Tourist Road entrance the road to reduce hazardous driving gate to allow access to the lakeside area conditions. The NSW National Parks and when the Campground is closed but the Wildlife Service (NPWS) is investigating new road is not seasonally closed. techniques for spreading salt aimed at improving winter safety for motorists and · Continue seasonal closure of Horn Road, reducing environmental impacts. Roadside Lake Catani Entrance Road and Reservoir vegetation is sometimes slashed to improve Road. visibility, reduce fire hazards and prevent snow-laden branches obstructing safe plant · Maintain effective liaison between road operations and traffic flow. Grass growth managers to ensure optimum road occurring from roadside slashing encourages conditions and parking facilities. many animals to feed on the roadsides, which results in animal deaths along the Tourist Road. · Develop a protocol with VicRoads The final section of the Tourist Road (also regarding all aspects of alpine road known as Horn Road) is unsealed and tightly management in the Park. winding. VicRoads proposes to seal this section in the medium term, in consultation with · Seek to obtain the results of the NPWS NRE. investigations into new techniques for spreading road salt, and incorporate Reservoir Road and the Lake Catani Entrance results into road management as necessary. Road give additional vehicular access on the Buffalo Plateau. 5.2.2 Camping A number of the Park’s roads are closed on a The Park offers opportunities for vehicle-based, seasonal basis (table 5). Temporary closure of walker-based and snow-based camping in a other roads and tracks is sometimes necessary natural setting. The peak visitor periods are where public safety is at risk or to prevent December to January and the Easter holidays, damage to road surface. NRE notifies and when facilities are used to capacity. The publicises such closures in advance. number of camper nights was 15 035 for A vehicle fee is charged at the entrance to the 1994-95. Park. The Lake Catani Campground is the only Aims vehicle-based camping area in the Park. Fifty- five camp sites are spread through six hectares · Maintain an appropriate network of roads of Snow Gum woodland. The sites are not a and tracks for visitor and management standard size or shape, and many are not purposes. suitable for camper-trailers or campervans · Minimise the impact of vehicle use on the because they are not level. There are no Park’s natural and cultural values and on powered sites. An amenities block built in opportunities for remote experiences. 1987 provides shower and toilet facilities, including access for visitors with limited Management strategies mobility. The campground is open between November and April each year. Camping fees · Manage and permit the use of roads and are levied. tracks in accordance with table 5. High levels of use, combined with erodible · Redesign the Horn car park to minimise soils, fragile alpine vegetation and limited vehicular congestion. control over vehicles and pedestrian movement, have resulted in slow but continuing degradation of the natural
Mount Buffalo National Park 21 The Park visit
TABLE 5 MANAGEMENT OF ROADS AND TRACKS
ROAD OR TRACK LENGTH STATUS MANAGER COMMENTS/USES (KM) Mt Buffalo Tourist Rd 28.0 O VicRoads Primary Park access and access to Tatra and skifields. Sealed road. Horn Road (part of 2.0 O VicRoads Park access. Seasonal closure. Tourist Road) Unsealed 2WD standard road. Chalet Road 2.0 O VicRoads Access to Chalet. Sealed road. Lake Catani Road 2.0 O NRE Access to camp ground. Seasonal closure. Open to picnic areas when clear of snow. Unsealed 2WD standard road. Reservoir Rd 3.5 O NRE Fire protection and access to picnic area. Seasonal closure. Fords to be placed on creek crossings. Unsealed road. Cresta Valley Lift Tk 0.2 MVO NRE Access for ski lift management. Chalet- Lake Catani Tk 2.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Ballroom Tk 1.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Mount McLeod Tk 7.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Rocky Creek Tk 9.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Sandy Creek Tk 10.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Nug Nug Perimeter Tk 3.5 MVO NRE Fire protection. Nug Nug Tk 7.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. D8 Spur (Sugarloaf) Tk 2.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Buffalo Creek Tk 5.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Nine Mile Tk 15.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Seven Mile Tk 4.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Eurobin Creek Tk 2.5 MVO NRE Fire protection and access to Private Property. Candlebark Tk 4.5 4WD NRE Fire protection. Wallace Spur Tk 5.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. PMG Tk 4.5 MVO NRE Fire protection, access to private property and access to recreation facilities. Goldie Spur Tk 7.0 MVO Powernet Fire protection and access to utilities. Liaise with Powernet. Buckland River Access 0.5 O NRE Recreation access. 4WD standard. Track Davidson Tk 0.2 MVO NRE Fire protection. Back Creek Tk 4.0 MVO NRE Fire protection and access to private property. Back Creek to Collins 1.0 MVO NRE Fire protection. Lane Tk Kangaroo Spur Tk 2.5 MVO NRE Fire protection. Fernydale Tk 1.0 MVO NRE Fire protection.
KEY: O open for public vehicular access MVO management vehicles only
22 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
environment of the campground. The natural visitor re impacts of firewood setting has also been degraded by visitors collection; collecting firewood, which is now scarce. · provide gas barbecues at the Firewood is available for sale on the mountain. campground day shelter; · install a micro hydro-electric power The LCC (1991) permitted the establishment of plant to power the lights at the a remote campsite in the North Buffalo Plateau amenities block; Remote and Natural Area if required to reduce · investigate and implement the the impact of camping on natural values in that application of the Campground Host area. program. A number of areas in the Park have been identified for self-contained bush and snow · Prohibit fires in camping areas except at camping for bushwalkers and cross-country the Lake Catani Campground. skiers (table 6 and figure 4). · Encourage visitors to bring gas or fuel Aims stoves or clean firewood for cooking to reduce their use of firewood. Prohibit the · Provide opportunities for a range of collection of firewood in the Park. camping experiences. · Minimise environmental impacts associated · Do not define campsites except at the Lake with camping. Catani Campground.
Management strategies · Permit snow-camping in designated areas only (table 6 and figure 4). · Provide for camping as outlined in table 6 and figure 4. · Introduce a ‘take your rubbish home’ strategy for all camping areas except Lake · Manage the Lake Catani Campground as Catani Campground, where rubbish follows: collection and recycling bins will be · revegetate disturbed areas outside the provided. sites and grass in accordance NPS guideline 15.1R; 5.2.3 Day visits · maintain some sites for camper-trailers The Park has a range of day visitor attractions and campervans; and facilities, including picnic areas, short · provide at least one site for campers walks and spectacular and easily accessible with limited mobility; lookout points. Popular day visit areas are the · maintain a booking system and an Chalet, the Gorge, the Lakeside area and a appropriate campsite fee and introduce number of signposted attractions on the Mount a self-registration system for campers to Buffalo Tourist Road. apply during low use periods; · review fees charged for camping at Lake The peak periods for day visits are December to Catani, annually. January, Easter, long weekends, and weekends · limit the number of large groups to two during the snow season. at any one time, the total number of Visitors with limited mobility are catered for in individuals not to exceed 50 in any one the Park through the provision of specially group; designed facilities such as a viewing platform at · prohibit chainsaws and generators; the Gorge (figure 4). The Park has potential to · maintain the existing system of group provide further opportunities in a range of fireplaces and shared tables; recreation activities for these visitors. Many of · arrange for firewood to be available the day visitor facilities in the Park are old and for purchase in the Park and educate beyond their serviceable life, and require upgrading.
Mount Buffalo National Park 23 The Park visit
TABLE 6 CAMPING AREAS
SITE NO. OF TOILETS FIRE- MAX. STAY COMMENTS CAMPERS PLACES (NIGHTS) Lake Catani 330 (summer) E E 42 55 sites available in summer. Winter access by ski from the 30 (winter) 3 Tourist Road or Chalet. Close amenities block during winter; provide low key toilet. Allow fires in day shelter only. Mount McLeod 10 P N/A 2 Accessible by walkers and cyclists. No fires. Open winter and summer. Saltlick Plain 10 E N/A 2 No fires. Winter only.
Half Day Bridge 10 P N/A 2 Accessible by walkers and cyclists. No fires. Summer only.
KEY: P Proposed Summer 1 November - 30 April E Existing Winter During the ski season as declared under the N/A Not Applicable Alpine Resorts (General) Regulations 1985
Aims formations or lookouts. The intensity of use varies, depending on location, from extremely · Enhance the opportunities for day visitors to heavy around the Gorge and the Horn to enjoy the Park, including, where practicable, infrequent on remote tracks. opportunities for people with limited mobility. Walkers include day visitors wishing to take in views from vantage points within easy reach of · Minimise the impact of day visitor activities their cars and those wishing to do full day on Park values. walks. Experienced walkers seeking the Management strategies challenge of longer and more remote walks usually prefer to visit the nearby Alpine · Provide facilities in accordance with table National Park, although opportunities do exist 7, figure 4 and the Recreation Facilities in Mount Buffalo National Park. Manual (CFL 1987). Some tracks are poorly located on steep · Take into account the needs of visitors with gradients through highly erodible country. limited mobility in designing future Several tracks on the Plateau are also used by facilities, including access facilities, or in horse riders (section 5.2.5), resulting in some upgrading existing facilities. conflict of interests between walkers and horse riders. · Monitor visitor use to ensure adequate Many of the walking tracks in the Park were provision of facilities and appropriate constructed a long time ago and now need to be levels of use. upgraded or refurbished. A substantial effort is required to upgrade all walking tracks to a 5.2.4 Bushwalking reasonable standard, and some rationalisation is desirable.‘Quiet Places’ are small areas in The Park has over 100 kilometres of walking natural settings set aside specifically for tracks. Most are on the Plateau, generally personal contemplation and nature leading to points of interest such as rock
24 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
appreciation. Through the initiative of the Friends of Mount Buffalo National Park,
Mount Buffalo National Park 25 The Park visit
TABLE 7 DAY VISITOR RECREATION FACILITIES
SITE TOILET PICNIC FIRE WATER PARK WALK LOOK MANAGEMENT ACTIONS TABLES PLACES SUPPLY INFO. TRACK OUT AND COMMENTS
Entrance P E E/P Creek P E Provide a gas barbecue Station Eurobin Falls P P E E Rollason Falls E E E E Consult with VicRoads and find an alternative site for gravel storage. The Gorge E E/P E E E/P E E Prepare a landscape (including the master plan for the area Oval) to provide picnic facilities and better car parking. Lakeside picnic E E/P E/P E E Provide gas barbecues areas (2 sites) and additional picnic tables Remove the children’s wading pool. Dingo Dell E P P E Replace the A-frame shelter with a more appropriately designed building and provide a gas barbecue. The Cathedral E E/P P E E Redevelop to provide a picnic area picnic area, orientation signs and warnings. Tatra Inn E E E E E Horn Road P P E E Redesign to separate picnic area car-parking and picnicking. Reservoir P E Creek E Redesign to separate picnic area car-parking and picnicking. Old Mill Site E/P E Lake E Provide more tables and picnic area replace fireplace. Noonameena P E Creek P picnic area
KEY: E Existing P Proposed two Quiet Places have been established A number of old track signs do not conform to adjacent to the Big Walk (near Rollasons Falls standards, but contribute to the Park’s historic Track) and at Le Souef Peak. The areas are atmosphere. signposted and visitors are asked not to intrude upon or disturb another person in a Quiet Place.
Mount Buffalo National Park 26 The Park visit
Aims · Promote minimum impact practices for walkers. · Provide a range of opportunities for walking on a network of tracks, compatible with · Discourage walking on groomed ski trails. other uses, protection of conservation values and Park zoning. 5.2.5 Horse riding · Where practicable, make provision for walking tracks with access for people with Horses have had a long association with Mount disabilities. Buffalo. Early European settlers used horses for exploration and cattle mustering, and to · Minimise impacts related to walking. transport the first tourists up to and around the Plateau. Horse riding is still relatively popular. Management strategies The Chalet holds an exclusive permit to operate · Permit walking on designated walking commercial horse riding tours on the Plateau. tracks,‘management vehicle only tracks Horse riding by private groups and commercial and roads’ and elsewhere in the Park operators is permitted on the lower elevations except in the Reference Area zone, of the Park. provided that environmental impacts are Commercial horse riding tours based on the minimal. Chalet stables use a range of tracks on the plateau including two popular walking tracks · Upgrade and maintain tracks as shown in leading from the Chalet. There is considerable table 8 and figure 4. potential for conflict between horse riding and · Close the following walking tracks to walking activities on these tracks. The minimise erosion, and allow them to Monolith Track, which is narrow and steep in revegetate: sections, is one of the most popular walking tracks in the Park. The Chalet - Lake Catani · Andersons Peak to Bald Hill (in the Track, which has relatively gentle grades and a Reference Area zone); wide, flat surface, is especially popular with · Gorge nature walk to Manfields elderly visitors and is one of a few tracks that Lookout track; can be upgraded to a suitable standard for · Woodcutters track. visitors with limited mobility. The Chalet is required to provide guides on all horse riding · Monitor the impact of walking activities tours and to clean up manure. and seek the closure of areas for walking if necessary to protect natural values or Two management options were considered in reduce conflicts between visitor activities. the Draft plan-removing horses from the plateau and restricting use of the plateau to · Seek the assistance of volunteers, specified tracks. Both options allowed for sponsorship or other government agencies continued riding in the foothills. The resolution in upgrading and maintaining walking involved investigating alternative riding routes tracks. on the Plateau with the aim of reducing environmental and social impacts, and · Retain or reuse signs with historic providing access to lower elevations for horses significance where appropriate. All other stabled at the Chalet. signs will be in accordance with the Signs The plan provides a balanced approach to horse Manual (CNR 1993) and Park Image riding, allowing riding to continue on the prescriptions as developed by NRE. plateau while protecting the environment and visitor experiences.
Mount Buffalo National Park 27 The Park visit TABLE 8 WALKING TRACKS
NAME LENGTH CURRENT PROPOSED ADDITIONAL WORK REQUIREMENTS (one way) km STANDARD STANDARD Existing Tracks Goldie Spur 2.0 E E None, route only Back Wall 5.5 D D Step, drain and reconstruct steep sections Back Wall E. Loop 1.5 D D Step, drain and reconstruct steep sections
Dickson Falls 2.0 C C Provide safe Falls view point. Complete upgrade to view point. South Buffalo 3.5 D D Ongoing maintenance Cathedral - Hump 1.0 D C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections Castle - Sentinel 1.5 D C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections Blackfellows Plain-Macs Point 4.5 D D Ongoing maintenance Rocky Ck. F/T-Macs Point Tk (west) 0.5 D D Ongoing maintenance Rocky Ck. F/T-Macs Point Tk (east) 0.7 D D Ongoing maintenance Long Plain - Macs Point Tk (nth) 1.0 D D Ongoing maintenance Long Plain - Macs Point Tk (sth) 0.7 D D Ongoing maintenance Long Plain - Mount Dunn 4.5 D C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections Kennedy Creek Spur (Old Galleries - Buckland) 6.0 E E None, route only Old Galleries 1.0 D D Ongoing maintenance Mollison Galleries 9.0 D D/C Ongoing maintenance: construct and harden section (horse section) used by horses Mollison-South Buffalo 2.0 D D Ongoing maintenance
Mount Buffalo National Park 28 The Park visit Table 8 (cont.)
NAME LENGTH CURRENT PROPOSED ADDITIONAL WORK REQUIREMENTS (one way) km STANDARD STANDARD Saltick Plain 1.5 D C Upgrade and harden to sustain horse use. Devil’s Couch 0.2 D D Ongoing maintenance. North Buffalo Bridle Track 2.0 D D Ongoing maintenance. Andersons Peak 0.5 E E Maintain route by minor clearing, cairns and drainage. Mount McLeod 0.7 D D Maintain route by minor clearing, cairns and drainage. Mount McLeod F/T 7.5 V V Clearing and drainage. Rocky Creek F/T (to Half Day Bridge) 8.0 V V Clearing and drainage. Chalwell Galleries 0.5 D D Close return loop. Improve track definition at Galleries. View Point 1.5 D C Improve track surface and bridges. Gorge - Underground River 1.5 D C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Underground River-View Point D D Ongoing maintenance. Consider closure; poor condition. Gorge - Lake Catani 2.0 V V Upgrade to track suitable for visitors with limited mobility and install interpretive information. Monolith (Vic Roads-Lake Catani Tk) 2.0 C D Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Harden surface to sustain horse use. Monolith (Park Office-Monolith) 1.0 C C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Monolith (stables access) 0.7 C C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Harden surface to sustain horse use. Lake View 1.5 D D Ongoing maintenance.
Mount Buffalo National Park 29 The Park visit Table 8 (cont.)
NAME LENGTH CURRENT PROPOSED ADDITIONAL WORK REQUIREMENTS (one way) km STANDARD STANDARD Lakeside Walk (Circuit) 2.0 C/V C/V Improve drainage. Improve surface for visitor safety near dam wall. Horn 0.5 C C Complete stone track reconstruction. Gorge Heritage Walk 2.0 B B Ongoing maintenance. Maintain interpretive signs. Wilkinson Lookout 0.3 C C Ongoing maintenance. Reed Lookout 0.5 D D Ongoing maintenance. Manfield Lookout 0.5 D D Ongoing maintenance. Big Walk 11.0 C/D C Improve track definition. Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Eurobin Falls 0.8 C C Reconstruct steps and improve drainage. Realign lower section adjacent to road. Rollasons Falls 1.5 C C Upgrade by stepping, drainage and reconstructing steep sections. Dingo Dell Access 0.5 C C Improve definition at track head. The Gorge 1.0 E E Maintain cairns for search and rescue purposes
New tracks Entrance Station picnic area loop walk 1.5 N/A C Construct loop in conjunction with Big Walk
Total 100.1
Standard B Fully constructed track, drained and surfaced where necessary C Well defined track, benched, drained and stepped where necessary D Track defined through use; some sections may be benched, drained and cleared. E Recognised route having no basic construction. Minor marking and definition may occur.] V Vehicle track, open either to management vehicles only or to all vehicles, which forms part of a recognised walking route.
30 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
Management roads in the lower elevations of · Investigate the possibility of widening the the Park are used by both private parties and shoulder of sections of the Tourist Road for commercial tour groups, although the level of horse riding and, if feasible and the lessee use remains low. Such horse riding has been agrees to contribute equally, construct and seen by some as a threat to the quality of water maintain a track on the shoulder and harvested from the Park, particularly permit the commercial tour operator to Myrtleford’s water supply. conduct commercial horse riding tours on the track. Aims · Continue to monitor the environmental and · Provide opportunities for horse riding, social impacts of horse riding on the consistent with the provision of other Plateau, including the maintenance of a recreation opportunities and services photographic record. · Minimise conflict between horse riders and other Park users. · Permit horse riding by private groups and commercial tour operators at lower · Minimise any environmental impacts caused elevations only on vehicular tracks shown by horses. on figure 4, in accordance with the NRE Management strategies Commercial Tour Operations guide except as follows: · Issue a Commercial Tour Operator Permit to the lessee of the Chalet to conduct all · no more than 10 horses in a group; horse riding on the plateau in accordance · no horse camping in the Park. with the NRE Commercial Tour Operations · Introduce a registration system requiring guide except as follows: recreational riders to provide details of · no more than 15 horses to be on the proposed rides in advance. plateau; · horses to be stabled at the Chalet; · Promote the ‘Horse Riding Code’ (AALC · no more than 10 horses in any group; 1994a) to all riders · riding limited to the following tracks and periods: 5.2.6 Cross-country skiing · Chalet - Lake Catani Track, Lake Catani Entrance Road, Reservoir Mount Buffalo is ideal for cross-country skiing; Road and Mount McLeod Fire Trail it has magnificent scenery, variable terrain and during the period 1 November to 30 good access. Ski trails connect a number of April inclusive; snow plains, offering a variety of experiences · Tourist Road, Reservoir Rocky Creek for beginner to intermediate skiers. Cross- Fire Trail (to Half Day Bridge), and country skiing increased rapidly in popularity Bridle Trail loop, loop around Og during the late 1970s and early 1980s but Gog and Magog and Saltlick Plain numbers have stabilised in recent years. Cross- during the period 1 November to 30 country skiing techniques and equipment have April inclusive if the Chief Ranger changed. The popular technique of ‘skating’ approves or otherwise from 1 requires wider groomed trails than the December to 30 April; traditional ‘classical’ skiing techniques. · Monolith Track if the commercial The Mount Buffalo Plateau does not have the tour operator agrees to co-operate in elevation to ensure a long snow season every upgrading and maintaining the track winter. There is considerable annual variation to an environmentally sustainable in snow depth and length of ski season. The level, only during periods authorised location of skiable snow also varies towards the by the Chief Ranger. end of the ski season, depending on local
31 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
conditions. Snow melts rapidly along drainage cutting devices. On side slopes the ground lines and on northerly aspects. surface may need to be levelled. Substantial moveable bridges are required over creeks. The expectations of cross country skiers vary Generally low heath and Snow Grass do not greatly. Cross-country skiing can be need to be slashed to facilitate snow grooming. undertaken on groomed snow which has been machine-packed and which may have ski tracks The trails south of Cresta Valley are marked cut into the surface, on ungroomed marked with temporary pole lines that are removed at trails, or in open, unprepared and unmarked the end of the snow season. areas. Aims Mount Buffalo caters for various types of cross-country skiing including competition · Provide for a range of cross-country skiing, racing (skating and classical), touring and with emphasis on beginner and intermediate cross-country downhill. Opportunities for skiers. skiing in more remote areas are also available · Provide a system of groomed and in the Park. ungroomed ski trails, minimising Machine grooming is carried out to create a environmental impact. packed snow surface for skating. Often a ski · Minimise conflicts between visitors seeking track is cut to one side, with two sets of parallel different types of experiences. grooves for touring and classical ski racing. Trails are not groomed daily because of the Management strategies high cost. The grooming that is done is aimed at facilitating good quality skiing by being · Groom ski trails on routes shown on figure timely in its application. 5 as appropriate to provide quality skiing conditions in accordance with the following The most popular cross-country skiing area is guidelines: on the snow plains south of Cresta Valley. This area holds snow longer than most parts of · during the snow season machine-groom the Plateau, and offers the greatest potential for the Kowan Plain trail, Valley of Gods further trail development. The terrain is ideal trail and Horn Road (south of the for beginner to intermediate skiers. It contains barrier) when snow conditions permit; the Kowan Plain trail (formerly the One · out of the snow season: Kilometre trail), Valley of Gods trail (formerly · use the Alpine Resorts Commission the Four Kilometre trail) and the Giant’s Victoria’s Draft Field Guidelines for Playground trail (formerly the Six Kilometre). the Design, Development and Lyrebird Plain and Skeleton Gully also provide Maintenance of Cross Country Ski good skiing and hold snow well. The Horn Trails (ARC 1992) as a guide when Road is a popular ski trail with a gentle designing, constructing and gradient up to a spectacular lookout. The road maintaining ski trails; is often groomed and offers a pleasant return · avoid moss-bed areas wherever trip to Cresta Valley. An information board practicable, and locate trails so that opposite the Cresta Valley car park gives cross- disturbance to other vegetation is country skiing information. minimised; Ski trails require summer and winter · perform only minimal earthworks, preparation to obtain a high trail standard and not using earth moving machinery; the longest possible ski season. Preparing · construct removable bridges across groomed trails, other than on open flat areas, streams and wet areas as required. involves some environmental disturbance. The route must be cleared of all trees, limbs and · Discourage the use of ski trails as walking obstacles to a sufficient width to enable passage routes through appropriate signs. of oversnow vehicles with track grooming and
32 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
· Develop ungroomed ski trails in Skeleton downhill skiing areas in the Recreation Gully and Lyrebird Plain if demand Development Zone (figure 3). requires. · Prohibit oversnow vehicle use for · Maintain trail signage and pole lines recreation and general patrol. regularly and to a high standard. Markings to be consistent with other resort 5.2.8 Other snow recreation areas. Pay particular attention to distances between poles and marking There are two downhill skiing areas in the Park, corners and bridges. at Cresta Valley and Dingo Dell. Management of these areas is by the lessee. · Allow for skier access from Kowan Plain to Many visitors take part in a number of winter the Horn Road when landscaping the area activities in the Park other than skiing. Popular adjacent to the barrier on the Horn Road. activities include ice-skating on Lake Catani, tobogganing, snow walks, snow boarding and 5.2.7 Oversnow vehicles general snow play. Oversnow vehicles include ‘skidoos’, larger The use of toboggans other than approved oversnow tracked vehicles and other types of models can be hazardous to users and vehicles capable of travelling over snow. spectators. Spinal injuries can occur if toboggans are used incorrectly. Oversnow vehicles are used for the efficient management of downhill ski areas and cross Aims country ski trails, and for search and rescue. Grooming machines are used to groom ski · Provide for appropriate snow recreation slopes, toboggan runs and cross country ski activities. trails. · Minimise damage to ski tracks and trails by Outside alpine resort areas, use of oversnow walkers. vehicles is confined to search and rescue and · Educate visitors about the dangers and essential management operations which are appropriate techniques for tobogganing and defined as activities undertaken by a the hazards associated with ice skating. government or semi-government authority in carrying out its duties (LCC 1983). Management strategies Aims · Allow tobogganing in the Recreation Development Zone, in areas and at times · Ensure that the authorised use of oversnow agreed between the lessee and NRE. vehicles does not detract from the enjoyment of Park visitors. · Permit tobogganing outside the Recreation · Minimise environmental impacts of Development Zone at Cresta Valley and oversnow vehicles. Dingo Dell within signposted areas. Patrol regularly to enforce the use of approved Management strategies types of toboggans only, encourage proper techniques, ensure appropriate behaviour · Allow oversnow vehicle use for: by visitors, and monitor the condition of · search and rescue operations; toboggan runs. · search and rescue training in the Snow Recreation Special Management Area · Allow only the use of light-weight moulded (figure 3); plastic toboggans. Continue to ban metal · essential management operations by and wooden toboggans, and use of tyres NRE and other government authorities, and plastic sheeting for tobogganing. including lessee operations in the
Mount Buffalo National Park 33 The Park visit
· Provide information in park literature and 5.2.10 Climbing and abseiling education programs on tobogganing areas, Mount Buffalo rates with Grampians National proper techniques, safety aspects, and the Park and Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park as availability of first-aid facilities. one of Victoria’s most popular rock climbing areas. It is undoubtedly the best venue in the · Confine the use of snowboards to the State, and arguably in Australia, for climbing Recreation Development Zone at Cresta on granite cliffs. Several hundred different Valley and Dingo Dell, under supervision climbs are possible, most of them classed as of the lessee. difficult. · Allow but do not encourage ice-skating on The Gorge area has the longest and most Lake Catani. Use signs to highlight demanding climbs. A number of guide books hazards. describe climbs in the Park. Many climbs are clearly visible from lookouts and walking 5.2.9 Cycling tracks, and climbers often attract groups of spectators. Cycling is becoming a popular activity in the Park. The Park currently has a number of The rock at Mount Buffalo is very abrasive and roads and tracks that provide cycling has few hand holds, making climbing very opportunities. difficult. Climbs are achieved primarily by using jamming and chimneying techniques up Bicycles are available for hire from the Chalet vertical cracks. ‘Aid’ climbing, drilling holes in and Tatra Inn. rock faces and placing bolts do occur. Placing fixed equipment (bolts, pitons, chains etc.) Aim without NPS approval contravenes the Park · Provide access for cycling while minimising Regulations. Low impact climbing will be environmental damage and conflicts with encouraged to minimise the impact of the other recreation activities. activity on the Park values. Climbers often abseil down climbs to inspect Management strategies potential routes, and several access routes to · Permit cycling on all vehicle roads in the the base of climbs require abseiling. Boulders Park including Management Vehicle Only and small cliffs on the Plateau are ideal sites for tracks. abseiling as an adventure activity and many are suitable for beginners. · Prohibit cycling on walking tracks and None of the geological and geomorphological seasonally closed vehicle roads. features of the Park are considered to be in any · Provide camping access for cyclists at Half danger from use by climbers (section 3.1). Day Bridge and Mt McLeod (table 6 and However, Peregrine Falcons nest on rocky cliffs figure 4). and escarpments at Mount Buffalo. Climbing near nesting sites could disturb adult birds and · Distribute and promote the ‘Mountain Bike interfere with breeding (section 3.4). Code’ (CNR 1994b). Aim · Produce and distribute a guide to cycling · Provide for safe climbing and abseiling in the Park. while minimising conflict with Park conservation values. · Liaise with lessees of the Chalet and Tatra Inn regarding cycling routes.
34 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
Management strategies · Allow hang gliders and paragliders to fly over the Park, but except for emergencies · Permit rock climbing and abseiling in do not allow landing in the Park. accordance with NPS guidelines. · Permit hang gliders and paragliders to · Maintain, and if necessary upgrade, launch from the Gorge launch site and existing tracks to the base of the climbs to a paragliders from Reeds Lookout. standard necessary to protect the park environment. Do not construct new tracks. · Allow additional paragliding launch sites only if impact on other visitors and the · Encourage volunteer support from climbing park environment is minimal. groups to assist with maintenance. · Liaise with the VHGA regarding hang · Close areas containing known Peregrine gliding and paragliding. Falcon nests from August to December inclusive. 5.2.12 Angling · Liaise with rock climbing clubs and groups, Recreational angling is a popular activity in the in particular the Victorian Climbing Club. Park. Popular angling sites include Lake Catani, the Reservoir, Eurobin Creek and the 5.2.11 Hang gliding and paragliding Buckland River. Mount Buffalo is recognised as one of the most The Buckland River and Lake Catani are the challenging locations for hang gliding in only waters in the Park that have been assessed Australia, and is the site of State, national and and rated for their fisheries value (CFL 1984). international competitions. Only one site in the Both are classed as having ‘sport’ value, Park, the Gorge, is approved for launching indicating the presence of a species (usually hang gliders. Under the terms of the lease, the trout) of interest to anglers. Victorian Hang Gliding Association (VHGA) is Angling is not considered to threaten the responsible for the maintenance of the launch conservation of any native fish species in the site and for pilot and public liability. The Park. facility is leased to the Victorian Hang Gliding Association under Section 21 of the National Aim Parks Act. · Provide opportunities for angling while There are no approved landing sites in the Park. minimising conflict with Park conservation There are two recognised paragliding launching values. sites: the Gorge hang gliding launch site and Reeds Lookout. Management strategies Hang gliding and paragliding are regulated by · Permit recreational fishing in the Park. Civil Aviation Regulations and Orders, and by rules and regulations established by the Hang · Prohibit the collection of live bait within Gliding Federation of Australia. Additional the Park. controls apply in the Park. · Provide access to fishing points at the edge Aim of Lake Catani for people with limited mobility. · Allow safe, low-impact launch facilities for hang gliding and paragliding, consistent with other Park values and uses. Management strategies
Mount Buffalo National Park 35 The Park visit
5.2.13 Water based recreation Management strategies Lake Catani was originally built in 1910 to · Manage caves generally in accordance with enhance the beauty and tranquillity of its the Draft Strategy for the Management of surroundings and as a recreational lake for use Caves and Karst in Victoria (DCE 1991). by guests of the Chalet. It is the only body of water on the Plateau suitable for boating and · Restrict developments to markers, paths swimming. and anchors essential to visitor safety.
Swimming is generally focused around the · Do not promote the Underground River as small jetty and raft anchored in the Lake. The a destination for the general public. Instal Chalet hires canoes at Lake Catani. Family a small information sign at the cave and school groups frequently bring their own entrance advising of hazards. canoes and dinghies. Sailboards and yachts are rarely used, due to unreliable winds and lack of · Prepare a ‘code of practice’ for people space. The lake is not suitable for powered wishing to go through the Underground craft. River.
Aim · Liaise with educational institutions and · Provide opportunities for water based commercial tour operators to ensure that recreation at Lake Catani while minimising guides are appropriately experienced and impacts on other visitors and the park have the necessary equipment. environment, particularly along the shoreline of the Lake. · Monitor caves annually, undertake necessary restoration and maintenance. Management strategies · Allow canoes, rowing boats, sailboards and 5.2.15 Organised and competitive yachts on Lake Catani. Do not allow events powered craft and paddle-boats. Mount Buffalo hosts a number of organised and competitive events including world hang gliding · Allow the canoe-hire operation at the championships, the ‘King of the Mountain’ present site north-east of the jetty on Lake cycle race, the ‘Big Walk’ event, the ‘Four Catani. The number of canoes for hire is Peaks Climb’ footrace, vintage car rallies and not to exceed ten. downhill and cross-country ski races.
5.2.14 Caving Aim There are two documented caves in the Park. · Provide opportunities for organised and Both are on the Plateau in the floors of valleys, competitive events while minimising conflict and each consists of a section of underground with Park conservation values and public stream flowing through granite boulders. The use. ‘Underground River’ is in the headwaters of Eurobin Creek and is regularly visited. The Management strategies cave on Kowan Plain is unnamed and rarely · Ensure that permits are obtained for all visited. competitive and organised events in the Park, prescribing conditions for the Aim protection of Park values and the interests · Provide opportunities for responsible and of other Park users. safe cave recreation, exploration and research while protecting cave values. 5.3 Visitor information and interpretation
36 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
Interpretive services will be improved in the with the lessees of the Chalet and Tatra Park through the provision of a focused Park Inn. visitor centre. The development of a Park · Review the infrastructure encompassed Interpretation Plan within the framework of An within the Special Management Area - Interpretation Strategy for Alpine Victoria Management Facility, with a view to (CNR 1995a) will ensure that interpretation improving accommodation and visitor themes for Mount Buffalo National Park have a interpretation and orientation facilities. complementary relationship to those in the nearby Alpine National Park. · Install an information board at the Park The Park has a number of facilities for entrance. interpretation including an information area at the Cresta Day Visitor Centre and at the Park · Provide general interpretive materials Office. There are a number of park about the Park’s geological and landform publications and several information shelters features, with specific interpretive associated with popular Park locations. materials at key sites. Information on the Park is also available from a number of commercial outlets and commercial · Provide interpretation programs during publications, and from the Bright Information peak visitor periods in accordance with the Centre. Draft Interpretation and Community Education Handbook (CNR 1994a). Major interpretative themes for the Park include climatic changes and altitude, creating · Improve Park information and ensure it is and shaping the landscape, the source of the available at popular destinations in rivers, altitude and the changing pattern of flora accordance with the Draft Interpretation and fauna communities, and changing uses of and Community Education Handbook the Plateau. (CNR 1994a). Seasonal interpretation programs are organised during peak holiday times and the ski season, · Develop and provide walking track notes and are well attended. Rangers provide other for the proposed extended walks associated interpretative services to Park visitors. with bush camping.
Aims · Promote the location and use of Quiet Places (section 5.2.4) on information · Provide visitor services that highlight the boards and Park information sheets. Park’s distinctive visitor experiences and offer attractions to each of the visitor · Liaise with the local tourism industry to segments. provide primary pre-visit information to · Develop and provide interpretation visitors in the region through the Bright opportunities which enhance visitor Information Centre and other appropriate appreciation of the Park and provoke centres. interest in the area’s natural and cultural environment. · Seek innovative ways of providing information and educational services to · Provide education programs on the natural visitors (e.g. by tourist radio). and cultural values of the Park. · Provide adequate visitor orientation Management strategies information and safety messages at key · Develop an information, interpretation and visitor nodes. education plan for the Park, interacting with similar plans for other alpine areas · Establish and implement monitoring and and with tourist information for the Ovens maintenance schedules for all and Kiewa Valleys region, in consultation interpretation facilities.
Mount Buffalo National Park 37 The Park visit
· Undertake regular evaluation of Water supplies for the Chalet, Tatra Inn information and interpretation programs complex and Keown Lodge are drawn from related to the Park. within the Park (section 7.1.1).
Aims 5.4 Commercial tourism operations · Provide opportunities for quality commercial tourism services consistent with Mount Buffalo has a long tradition of protecting Park values, management commercial recreation services, beginning in the objectives and safety of clients. latter part of the nineteenth century when the Manfield brothers, and later the locally · Ensure that the operation of the commercial renowned Guide Alice (Alice Manfield), took enterprises is consistent with the primary visitors by horse and foot up to the Plateau. management objectives for the Park. The range of private commercial tourism · Provide appropriate assistance to operations in the Park includes: commercial tour operators. · the Mount Buffalo Chalet, and the Tatra Inn · Co-ordinate the provision of visitor services and associated ski fields at Cresta and provided by NPS and commercial tour Dingo Dell, under separate leases from operators. NRE; · Encourage co-operative and co-ordinated · guided leisure activities including hang marketing and promotion of the Park and gliding, rock climbing, abseiling, skiing, Region among NRE, commercial operators bush walking, horse riding and vehicle based in the Park and the local tourist industry. tours, operated under Guided Leisure and Instruction Permits; Management strategies · equipment supply services, including supply · Hold regular meetings with the lessees to of skis, toboggans, bicycles and canoes. discuss matters of mutual interest.
The Mount Buffalo Chalet operates year round, · Ensure that the lessees comply with the offering prestige accommodation and a range of conditions of the leases and associated recreation facilities and opportunities for its legislative responsibilities. guests. Key marketing strengths are the Chalet’s unique heritage qualities, its location · Monitor operation of the sewage treatment at a spectacular site in a renowned national facilities. Take remedial action if park, and the wide variety of activities available unacceptable conditions arise. to visitors. Tatra Inn provides motel, lodge and backpacker · Liaise with commercial tourism operators accommodation, food outlets and other services to ensure that visitor services (particularly from buildings located adjacent to the Cresta information services) are co-ordinated and Valley skiing area. These buildings are shared meet industry and NRE standards; and with NRE, which maintains a visitor that the impact of tourism services on the information area at the Cresta Day Visitor Park is minimised. Centre in the Tatra Inn complex. · Encourage the development and Facilities operated at the Cresta Valley and implementation of accreditations and Dingo Dell ski fields include ski lifts/tows, standards for commercial tour operators groomed slopes and provision of artificial undertaking guided leisure activities. snow. Sewerage generated in the lease areas is treated · Support training programs for commercial and the effluent released into adjacent streams. tour operators.
38 Mount Buffalo National Park The Park visit
· Promote the Australian Alps National Management strategies Parks Tour Operators’ Manual (AALC · Encourage visitors to seek information on 1994b). any activities they intend to undertake in the Park. 5.5 Public safety · Provide cross country ski patrols in periods The Park’s severe climate, rugged topography of peak winter use. and opportunities for remote recreation present inherit dangers and risks to visitors. Winter · Maintain Reservoir Hut to provide activities require close supervision and prompt emergency shelter in the Mount McLeod - response times for accidents, which are often Rocky Creek - Wild Dog Plain area. attended to by Park staff. Wildfires are a potential hazard during the warmer months. · Use park literature and information signs Rock climbing and hang gliding incidents occur to increase visitors’ awareness of safety several times a year, as do accidents or injuries issues and potential hazards in the Park, associated with other activities. The number of highlighting the hazards associated with incidents, however, is not high considering the alpine environments and activities. number of visitors and the type of activities. · Prepare Emergency Incident (non-fire) The Department has a responsibility to ensure Response Guidelines in line with NPS that Park visitors are aware of safety issues and guideline 22.5PL. The guidelines should risks within the Park. cover:
Aims · searches for lost persons, including alpine operations; · Promote visitor awareness of safety issues · cliff resuce operations; and risks within the Park. · road accidents or landslips on the · Ensure Park staff are appropriately trained, Tourist Road. prepared and available to assist in emergencies and to co-operate with · Prepare a Fire Response Strategy to emergency services. minimise risks to Park visitors in the event of fire. Ensure that staff and commercial · Provide first-attack resources for use by operators are aware of the strategy. Police or SES in search and rescue operations. · Ensure that enough Park staff are trained to assist with emergency situations. Train appropriate staff in first-aid to Australian Ski Patrollers Association or similar standards.
· Maintain suitable alpine and cliff rescue equipment and ensure that Park staff are adequately trained in its use.
Mount Buffalo National Park 39 Community awareness and involvement
COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT
6.1 Friends and volunteers The Park presents opportunities to raise community awareness and understanding of The Friends of Mount Buffalo National Park, natural values, ecological processes and sound Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers land management practices. and other interested groups or individuals make valuable contributions to Park management A high proportion of the Park boundary abuts projects. privately owned land, hence good relations with nieghbours are an important function in the Volunteers can gain considerable satisfaction management of the Park. and a greater awareness of environmental matters from involvement in park projects. Aims Aim · Increase awareness and knowledge of the Park within local communities. · Encourage and assist volunteer groups to undertake appropriate management tasks in · Maintain a good relationship with Park the Park. neighbours. · Co-operate with land holders adjacent to the Management strategies Park in the protection of both private · Encourage and support the Friends group property and public land from fire, pests and for the Park. other hazards. · Encourage conservation and sound land · Develop a long-term volunteer strategy for management practices on private land the Park that makes use of the skills and adjoining the Park. interests of volunteer groups and local organisations in undertaking appropriate Management strategies actions from this Plan. · Encourage local organisations and individuals to become involved in volunteer 6.2 Community awareness and work. Park neighbours Many farming families on the surrounding · Seek regular local media coverage of Park freehold land have strong cultural and pioneer activities, such as improvement to visitor links with the area. facilities, interpretive programs, pest plant and animal control, events, results of Other Park neighbours are attracted to the area research and surveys and other items of by its natural beauty and by the recreational general interest. opportunities available in the Park. These neighbours often take an interest in the Park’s · Maintain a park neighbour and community management. group database and develop a liaison NRE’s Good Neighbour initiative recognises program with neighbouring property that private landholders would be greatly owners and community groups . Where assisted by action to control pest plants and appropriate, involve them in relevant animals on public land. aspects of planning and managing the Park. NRE is involved in co-operative projects with landholders adjoining the Park. This co- · Through the Good Neighbour Program and operative approach needs to continue, given the in cooperation with adjoining landowners, extent of weed infestation along Park seek funds to control pest plants and boundaries. animals in boundary areas of the Park.
Mount Buffalo National Park 40 Community awareness and involvement
· Co-ordinate programs and encourage and Aims co-operate with landowners on matters of · Help develop student awareness and joint interest such as fire protection, understanding of parks and their value. control of grazing stock, pest plant and animal control and access. · Enhance the educational value of school visits to the Park.
6.3 Schools education Management strategies Mount Buffalo National Park is a popular · Assist with the development of suitable venue for school excursions because of the educational materials for the Park, availability of group accommodation on and off including materials relating to the Park the mountain and good access for buses. The Centenary, and promote the use of the Park is of particular interest as a land use case Australian Alps National Parks Education study owing to its significant conservation Kit (AALC 1992). values and popular recreation activities. Gaining the maximum value from educational · Where appropriate, offer Ranger talks to experiences in parks is best achieved by schools booking visits to the Park. integrating park-based studies into curricula and by ensuring that teachers have access to · Support appropriate teacher training field adequate pre-visit and follow-up materials. programs and in-services.
Mount Buffalo National Park 41 Other issues
OTHER ISSUES
7.1 Authorised uses 7.1.2 Public utilities A variety of utilities and services are 7.1.1 NRE utilities maintained and operated by public authorities Four water supplies and associated pipelines in in the Park. the Park have been built to provide water for Telecommunications. Telecommunications buildings on the Plateau. NRE is currently equipment, operated by Telstra, is located at the responsible for maintaining these utilities. The Park Office and residences, the Chalet, Keown utilities are: Lodge and Tatra Inn. Overhead cables connect · Dingo Dell (supplies Keown Lodge); the Chalet, Tatra Inn, Park Office and the VicRoads depot to Telstra trunklines, and · Lake Catani (supplies campground and provide services to freehold properties emergency supply for Chalet); surrounded by the Park. Underground cables · Lyrebird Plain (supplies Tatra Inn); are located within the Park boundary in the · Reservoir (supplies the Chalet). Buckland and Ovens Valleys. The Chalet also draws water directly from VicRoads infrastructure. VicRoads snow Crystal Brook by means of a pumping station clearing operations are based at the VicRoads situated along the road to the Chalet. The depot, 500 metres south of the Park Office. lessee of the Chalet is responsible for the The depot provides accommodation for three Crystal Brook pump station. staff, and is operational during the snow season only. VicRoads maintains a stone hut at the NRE operates a quarry below Mackeys base of the Horn walking track, originally built Lookout to supply fill for road-making in the to house transmitter equipment that is no longer Park. The quarry provides an economic and in use. convenient supply of fill, particularly for works on the Plateau. It is not visible from the Electricity supply. A 220 Kv transmission Tourist Road or any nearby vantage points. line runs along the southern boundary of the The site has been used in the past to dump fill Park. Several lower voltage lines cross the excavated during road-making. Park to freehold properties. Generators supply power at the Chalet, Tatra Inn, Park Aim Headquarters and VicRoads depot. · Maintain effective utility services to meet Water supply. Myrtleford’s water supply is visitor and park management requirements fed by a pipeline from a small off-take structure while minimising impacts on Park values. within the Park on Buffalo Creek, installed and maintained by the Alpine Shire. Porepunkah’s Management strategies water supply is fed from the Buckland River by pipeline, partly located in a cleared corridor · Maintain all water supplies and associated within the Park. Water supply to leased pipelines and facilities on the Plateau as facilities is described in section 7.1.1. required. Trigonometric station. A trigonometric · Maintain adequate environmental flows station at Mt McLeod is operated by the from the Reservoir for Crystal Brook. Division of Survey and Mapping, Department of Finance. · Manage extraction quarries in line with the Extraction Industries Development Act 1995 Aims (Vic.). · Minimise the impacts of public utilities on Park values.
Mount Buffalo National Park 42 Other issues
· Provide for public utilities, services and Aim occupations only where feasible alternative · Phase out occupations and activities not locations outside the Park are not available. provided for by legislation. Management strategies Management strategies · Negotiate National Parks Act Section 27 · Allow Defence Force and emergency Consents for all existing public authority services training in the Park in accordance installations and services, including with NRE Guidelines. conditions, to ensure that construction, maintenance and any other works are · Investigate all the private water supply consistent with protection of the park diversions, pipelines and associated environment and amenity of visitors. facilities in the Park. Ensure that existing diversions are of a standard consistent with · Maintain vehicle access to municipal Park values. Encourage land owners to facilities, or negotiate maintenance by the seek alternative water supplies. municipality as part of a consent. · Close and rehabilitate all private rubbish · Liaise with authorities to ensure that works tips. Progressively rehabilitate the Chalet and maintenance are consistent with rubbish tip. consent conditions.
· Seek replacement of the existing overhead 7.2 Boundaries and adjacent uses services with underground services, The Park has an extensive private property following existing roads or tracks. interface. Of the 150 km of park boundary, only 25 km abuts other public land. Most of · Encourage VicRoads to reduce the visual the surrounding freehold land is used for impact of its depot. grazing or cropping. · In consultation with VicRoads, assess the In some areas, the boundary of the Park is Horn stone hut’s historical significance. If poorly defined on the ground and inadvertent significant reclassify as a Crown hut. If clearing and grazing within the Park have not, remove. occurred, particularly in relation to an inholding in the Buckland Valley. Some parts of the Park 7.1.3 Other uses boundary are unfenced, and stock occasionally strays into the Park and grazes illegally. NRE Illegal rubbish tips have been established in as an agency of the Crown is not required to the Park close to private property boundaries, contribute to the cost of boundary fencing including in a small quarry opposite the establishment or upkeep. junction of the Little Buffalo Creek and the Buckland River. A major rubbish tip adjacent A number of private properties surrounded by to the Chalet is no longer used. It covers a or adjacent to the Park have traditionally gained large area and is heavily weed infested. access through the Park and some have permission for such access. Generally, such Private water supplies. Several private water access is incompatible with Park management. diversions and pipelines take water from the Park for use by adjoining land holders. They Aim are in areas added to the Park in 1980. Some · Minimise conflicts between Park values and are licensed by Goulburn Murray Water to take neighbouring land use. water, others are unlicensed. Defence Force training exercises are occasionally undertaken at various locations within the Park.
Mount Buffalo National Park 43 Other issues
Management strategies rescue equipment, construction and maintenance stores and machinery, and · Encourage the Alpine Shire to develop hazardous materials. planning strategies for land adjacent to the Park which are compatible with the Two houses within the precinct provide protection of park values, including permanent Ranger accommodation, and a flat consideration of overlay controls. caters for temporary placements. Power is supplied by on-site generating plants. · Ensure that NRE views are considered in the preparation of amendments to the A Park Entrance Station is situated on the Alpine Shire Planning Scheme, with the Tourist Road, near the Park boundary. Staff aim of minimising adverse effects of operating the station are responsible for the private land developments on park values. collection of entry fees and distributing Park information. · Identify Park boundary anomalies on the ground and undertake action as necessary. Aims Pay particular attention to the inholding · Efficiently co-ordinate administration, in the Buckland Valley. supervision and operations functions associated with the management of the Park. · Encourage landowners to maintain fences along boundaries with the Park, and to · Minimise the impact of operations on the take other appropriate actions to prevent Park landscape. stock straying into the Park. · Enable visitors to obtain quality Park information. · Continue to allow existing practical access. Ensure that landowners maintain tracks at Management strategies a standard consistent with Park values. Assist with maintenance only where · Maintain the Park Office, depot, three necessary for park management. residences and the entrance station. These facilities require some rationalisation to · Discourage new applications from facilitate Park management activities and landowners for practical access through reduce impacts on the landscape (section the Park. Generally, such applications will 3.5). only be granted by the Director under exceptional circumstances. · Investigate the viability of reconstructing or refurbishing the Office into a visitor · Liaise with the landholder of private services centre with improved ranger property crossed by the Nug Nug Perimeter offices, an administration centre and visitor Track regarding access to the Park and parking. maintenance for fire access. · Discuss alterations to the Tourist Road and Office entrance with Vic Roads with the 7.3 Park Office, depot and aim of providing safe entrance and exit residences points. The Park Office, depot and associated buildings · Develop and implement a strategy for are located adjacent to Mount Buffalo Tourist effectively separating and screening the Road, 300 m south of Tuckerbox Corner. accommodation, workshop and visitor The Park Office is in poor condition and is not services areas within the zone. satisfactory for visitor information services as space is limited. · Ensure that development within the precinct does not impinge on the The workshop area is an integral part the precinct and includes storage for search and
44 Mount Buffalo National Park Other issues
outstanding natural setting of Hospice Plain.
Mount Buffalo National Park 45 Implementation
8 IMPLEMENTATION
A three-year rolling implementation program will be prepared for the Park to ensure efficient implementation of this Plan. Priorities for management are identified in table 9 as an initial step in this process.
TABLE 9 PRIORITY MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
MANAGEMENT STRATEGY SECTION IN PLAN
Resource conservation Protect subalpine vegetation communities 3.2, 3.3, 4.1, 4.3, 5.2.4, 5.2.5, 5.2.6, 5.2.7 Complete inventory of significant flora 3.3 Prepare and implement a vegetation management strategy 3.3 Manage visitor activities at Rollasons Falls to protect potential Spotted Tree Frog habitat 3.4 Prepare and implement action statements for all significant archaeological and historic sites 3.6 Ensure maintenance of the Chalet consistent with its original character and design 3.6 Park protection Prepare and implement a fire management strategy 4.1 Develop and implement a pest management strategy 4.2 The Park visit Conduct visitor surveys 5.1 Maintain vehicle track network 5.2.1 Maintain Lake Catani campground 5.2.2 Develop and maintain visitor facilities 5.2.3 Upgrade and maintain walking tracks 5.2.4 Prepare and implement a Park interpretation plan 5.3 Continue to provide Park information and interpretation programs 5.3 Continue to liaise with Park users, user groups and commercial tourism operators 5.1, 5.4 Community awareness and involvement Develop and implement a volunteer strategy 6.1 Encourage and support the Park Friends group 6.1 Co-ordinate programs and co-operative efforts with landowner groups or individuals 6.2 Monitoring and research Monitor the spread of sarcoptic mange 4.2 Monitor Himalayan Honeysuckle 4.2 Encourage research into significant flora and fauna 3.3, 3.4 Encourage research into fire ecology for vegetation communities 4.1 Monitor soil erosion at campground and other sites 4.3 Monitor the environmental and social impact of horse riding 5.2.5
Mount Buffalo National Park 46 References
REFERENCES
ARC (in press) Prescriptions for Ski Slope DCE (1990) North-east Region Fire Development, Stabilisation and Protection Plan. Department of Maintenance. Alpine Resorts Commission, Conservation and Environment, Wodonga. Melbourne. DCE (1991) Draft Strategy for the ARC (1992) Draft Field Guidelines for the Management of Caves and Karst in Design, Development and Maintenance of Victoria. Department of Conservation and Cross Country Ski Trails. Alpine Resorts Environment, Melbourne. Commission, Melbourne (unpub.). Gillespie, G.R. (1993) Distribution and AALC (1992) Australian Alps Education Kit. Abundance of the Spotted Tree Frog Australian Alps Liaison Committee, (Litoria spenceri) in Victoria. Australian Canberra. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Canberra (unpub.). AALC (1994a) Horse Riding Code. Australian Alps Liaison Committee, Canberra. Gillespie, G.R. and Hollis G.W. (in preparation) Distribution, Habitat and AALC (1994b) Australian Alps National Conservation Status of the Spotted Tree Parks Tour Operators Manual. Australian Frog (Litoria spenceri) and an assessment Alps Liaison Committee, Canberra. of possible causes of population decline. Beauglehole, A.C. (1988) The Distribution Journal of Wildlife Research. and Conservation of Vascular Plants in the Gullan, P.K., Cheal, D.C., and Walsh, N.G. North East Area. Western Victorian Field (1990) Rare or Threatened Plants in Naturalists Association, Portland. Victoria. Department of Conservation and CFL (1984) Fisheries Value and Classification Environment, Melbourne. of Fresh and Estuarine Waters in Victoria. ICOMOS (1988) Charter for the Conservation Department of Conservation and Forests of Places of Cultural Significance (The and Lands, Melbourne (unpub.). Burra Charter), The Australian International CFL (1987) Recreation Facilities Manual. Council of Monuments and Sites (unpub.). Department of Conservation and Forests LCC (1977) Final Recommendations, North- and Lands, Melbourne. Eastern Study Area, Districts 3, 4 and 5. CNR (1993) Signs Manual. Department of Land Conservation Council, Melbourne. Conservation and Natural Resources, LCC (1983) Final Recommendations, Alpine Melbourne. Area Special Investigation. Land CNR (1994a) Draft Interpretation and Conservation Council, Melbourne. Community Education Handbook. LCC (1991) Final Recommendations, Department of Conservation and Natural Wilderness Special Investigation. Land Resources, Melbourne. Conservation Council, Melbourne. CNR (1994b) Mountain Bike Code. Leonard, M. and Hammond, R. (1984) Department of Conservation and Natural Landscape Character Types of Victoria. Resources, Melbourne. Forests Commission Victoria, Melbourne. CNR (1995a) An Interpretation Strategy for NPS (1995) National Parks and Conservation Alpine Victoria. Department of Reserves, Guidelines and Procedures Conservation and Natural Resources, Manual. National Parks Service, Melbourne. Department of Conservation and Natural CNR (1995b) Threatened Fauna in Victoria - Resources, Melbourne. 1995. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Melbourne.
47 Mount Buffalo National Park References
NRE (database a) Atlas of Victorian Wildlife. VTC (1987) Wine and High Country Tourism Department of Natural Resources and Development Program. Victorian Tourism Environment, Melbourne. Commission, Melbourne. NRE (database b) Flora Information System. Walsh, N.G., Barley, R.H. and Gullan, P.K. Department of Natural Resources and (1984) The Alpine Vegetation of Victoria Environment, Melbourne. (Excluding the Bogong High Plains area). Department of Conservation, Forests and Rowe, R.K. 1984, A Study of the Land in the Lands Environmental Studies Program, No. catchments of the upper Ovens and King 376. Government Printer, Melbourne. Rivers. Soil Conservation Authority Victoria, Melbourne. Tech. Comm. No. 16. Sandford, M. 1987, Mount Buffalo Plateau - Landscape Assessment. Landscape and Architectural Services Section, Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands, Melbourne. (unpub.).
48 Mount Buffalo National Park Appendices
APPENDIX 1 SIGNIFICANT FLORA
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS+
Alpine Bog Community * Fen (Bog Pool) Community * Acacia dallachiana Catkin Wattle Rr Acacia phlebophylla Buffalo Sallow Wattle # Rr Asplenium trichomanes Common Spleenwort r Baeckea crenatifolia Fern-leaf Baeckea # Rv Brachyscome ptychocarpa Tiny Daisy r Coprosma moorei Turquoise Coprosma r Deyeuxia affinis Allied Bent-grass Rr Dodonaea boroniifolia Hairy Hop-bush r Eucalyptus mitchelliana Buffalo Sallee # Rr Echiton umbricolus Cliff Cudweed r Euphrasia crassiuscula ssp. crassiuscula Thick Eyebright r Hierochloe submutica(a) Holy Grass Rv Huperzia australiana Fir Clubmoss r Luzula australasica Bog Woodrush r Luzula acutifolia Sharp-leaf Woodrush r Pratia gelida Snow Pratia Rv Prostanthera decussata Dense Mint-bush r Prostanthera monticola Buffalo Mint-bush Rr Rulingia dasyphylla Clustered Kerrawong r* Tetratheca thymifolia(b) Thyme Pink-bells v Utricularia monanthos Tasmanian Bladderwort v
Source: (NRE database b) e endangered in Victoria r rare in Victoria v vulnerable in Victoria R rare in Australia * listed under Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. # endemic to the Park Notes: (a) Hierochloe submutica is identified for the Park but the location is unknown. (b) Tetratheca thymifolia is known from the Park from a single collection made in 1913. It has not been recorded since, despite extensive searching. Its presence in the area must therefore be doubtful.
49 Mount Buffalo National Park Appendices APPENDIX 2 SIGNIFICANT FAUNA
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS+
Mammals Canis familiaris dingo Dingo ins. Dasyurus maculatus Spot-tailed Quoll v* Mastacomys fuscus Broad-toothed Rat r
Birds Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon -
Reptiles Tiliqua cyclodomorphus praealtus Alpine She-oak Skink v
Amphibians Litoria spenceri Spotted Tree Frog end.*
Fish Gadopsis bispinosus Two-spinned Blackfish - Gadopsis marmoratus Freshwater Blackfish ins. Galaxias olidus Mountain Galaxias ins. Galaxias rostratus Flat-headed Galaxias r Maccullochella macquariensis Bluenose Cod end.*
Invertebrates Oreixenica latialis theddora Alpine Silver Xenica -
Source: (NRE database a) + Conservation status in Victoria (CNR 1995): end. endangered r rare v vulnerable ins. insufficiently known - no conservation status * listed under Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.
50 Mount Buffalo National Park Appendices APPENDIX 3 MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL WEEDS
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME COMMENT
Achillea millefolium Yarrow Small isolated patches on plateau, particularly on Hospice Plain, Cresta Valley, Reservoir Road and around the Park office. Chrysanthemum Portuguese Around the Chalet. lacustre Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum Feverfew Small isolated patches on the plateau. parthenium Cytisus scoparius English Broom Scattered along Tourist Road. Echium plantagineum Patersons Curse Isolated patches on entrance road and the plateau around the Chalet, Tatra and Dingo Dell. Heavy infestations along Nug Nug Track. Hedera helix Ivy Around the Chalet. Hypericum Tutsan Isolated patches south of Nug Nug, adjacent to androsaemum Reference Area. Hypericum St Johns Wort Extensive areas in north west foothills and Power Net perforatum line to the south. Isolated patches along Tourist Road and plateau, particularly around the Chalet. Hypochoeris radicata Flatweed Widespread on plateau, especially along roadsides and tracks. Juncus articulatus Jointed Rush Small isolated patches on plateau. Leycesteria formosa Himalayan Extensive between Nine Mile Spur and Kangaroo Honeysuckle Creek. Isolated plants on Eurobin Creek near Park Entrance. Lotus corniculatus Birds-foot Trefoil Along the roadsides from Hospice Plain to the Chalet and the Horn, and along Reservoir Road. Lupinus spp. Lupins Around the Park office and Chalet. Malus X domestica Apple Along Tourist Road and walking tracks on the plateau. Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob Around the Chalet. Rosa rubiginosa Sweet Briar Around the Chalet. Rubus spp. Blackberry Extensive infestations in gullies and on foothill slopes, particularly along the east, north and west park boundaries. Isolated patches on plateau and along Tourist Road. Rumex acetosella spp. Sheep Sorrel In grasslands and low heaths on the plateau. agg. Salix sp. Willow Isolated clumps in wet areas on the plateau. Taraxacum spp. agg. Dandelion Widespread on plateau. Verbascum virgatum Twiggy Mullein Scattered plants along Tourist Road and around the Chalet.
Source: Beauglehole (1988)
Mount Buffalo National Park 51 Tallangatta●
KIEWA FREEWAY
HUME ●Yackandandah Wangaratta BEECHWORTH ● PARK Beechworth
OVENS
VALLEY
● Myrtleford ●Moyhu
HIGHWAY
HIGHWAY
MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK ●Bright ● ● Whitfield Mount Beauty
ALPINE NATIONAL PARK
ALPINE NATIONAL PARK
FIGURE 1 MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK REGIONAL LOCALITY PLAN
Parks and Reserves(NP Act) 0 20km Other Public Land
Highway G/5981.1 Main road Natural Resource Systems 1996 Excellence in Geospatial Technologies Kilometres Natural Resource Systems 1996 Excellence in Geospatial Technologies Excellence in Geospatial National Park National Park Land Other Crown State Forest Figure 2 Sealed road Unsealed road track Vehicle MVO track National Park boundary G/5981.2 10123 NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL MOUNT BUFFALO ADJACENT LAND TENURE Brookside Porepunkah ROAD River HIGHWAY Eurobin
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Buffalo BUFFALO Lake Buffalo Figure 3A MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK PARK MANAGEMENT ZONE ENLARGEMENT - LAKE CATANI (See Figure 3 and Table 3)
Underground River
17
14 Lake Catani Camping Ground
View point 17 12 Tourist Road
ZONES Sealed road Conservation Unsealed road Recreation Development NOT TO SCALE G/5981.3.A Walking track OVERLAYS Special Protection Sites
Natural Resource Systems 1996 Excellence in Geospatial Technologies
Kilometres Natural Resource Systems 1996 Excellence in Geospatial Technologies Excellence in Geospatial Figure 4 Sealed road Unsealed road track Vehicle MVO track National Park boundary Horse riding track G/5981.4 10123 VISITOR FACILITIES VISITOR NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL MOUNT BUFFALO Camping area Picnic table information Park Fireplace Lookout Toilet Camping area Picnic table information Park Fireplace Toilet EXISTING RECREATION SITES AND FACILITIES EXISTING RECREATION SITES AND FACILITIES RECREATION PROPOSED Brookside Porepunkah ROAD
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Buffalo BUFFALO Lake Buffalo Figure 4A MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK THE GORGE AND LAKE CATANI - ENLARGEMENT
●Mackeys Lookout
● Devils Marriots Elbow Lookout ● Reeds Manfields Lookout Lookout ●
●Wilkinsons The The Oval Lookout Gap ●Pulpit Rock ●Falls Lookout ● Gorge Lookout ●Bents Lookout HOSPICE Carpark The Gorge Tuckerbox PLAIN The Chalet
park office
The Monolith● The Underground River snow clearing control depot
Lake Catani Camping Ground ●Lake View jetty LAKE CATANI Old Mill Site camping Picnic Area ground
View● Point
Lakeside Picnic Areas ● Chalwell Galleries
EXISTING RECREATION SITES AND FACILITIES Sealed road Camping area Fireplace Unsealed road Picnic table Toilet NOT TO SCALE Walking track/MVO Road Park information Lookout G/5981.4A Walking track Picnic shelter Self guided walk Hangliding Paragliding Natural PROPOSED RECREATION SITES AND FACILITIES Resource Systems 1996 Camping Area Fireplace Excellence in Geospatial Technologies Picnic Table Toilet Figure 5 MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK
SKI TRAILS & TRACKS
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● ● ● ● ● ● Kowan Plain trail Valley of Moons trail 250 0 250 500 Horn Road Metres Giants Playground Trail G/5981.5
(Tracks and Trail location dependent upon snow conditions). Natural Resource Systems 1996 Excellence in Geospatial Technologies