General News
13 June, 2025
More climbing opportunities in Grampians welcomed by groups
Eighteen popular climbing areas in the Grampians (Gariwerd) officially reopened on May 29, marking a significant milestone for Victoria's climbing community.
Parks Victoria confirmed the decision following a comprehensive assessment of 27 sites, made possible through sustained collaboration with Climbing Victoria and strong leadership from the Traditional Owners of Gariwerd.
Parks Victoria district manager Mick Smith said they are gradually reopening affected parts and climbing areas of the Grampians after the bushfires.
"We're pleased to let people know more spectacular climbing opportunities are available in Gariwerd," he said.
"We've worked in partnership with Traditional Owners and in consultation with climbers on these surveys and that's going to continue.
"As Gariwerd recovers from the summer bushfire, we're gradually reopening the affected parts of the park, including the designated climbing areas within them."
The reopened areas include Cave Cliff, The Sun Gate, Watchmen, Centurion Walls, Dreamtime Wall, New Era Wall, Labour Ward, and Superbia, among others.
Several sites, including Dreamtime Wall, HB Wall, and Blind Man's Bluff, remain partially or temporarily closed due to recent fire impacts.
One of the local climbers from Natimuk, Pat Ford, appreciated the decision to reopen the climbing areas in the Gariwerd (Grampians).
"It's very pleasing to see that Parks reopened those climbing areas for all," he said.
"Those are the extra places for everyone, including children, adults and professional climbers.
"It will definitely assist the economy across the Grampians region.
"Those parts are the great outdoor areas we have in the region."
The decision follows years of advocacy and negotiation. Climbing Victoria welcomed the move as a turning point, describing it as a step toward a more respectful and sustainable access model.
"This outcome reflects the effort of all parties involved and shows how cultural values and recreational access can work hand-in-hand," a spokesperson from Climbing Victoria said.
The 18 reopened sites don't include any of the Mount Arapiles, but Mr Ford said the talks are ongoing with Parks Victoria regarding that.
"The talks for the climbing areas of the Mt Arapiles are ongoing with the Parks," he said.
"It's so good to see that traditional owners are willing to work for a solution that suits every stakeholder.
"The protection of our great cultural heritage is also very important."
Mr Ford is hoping to visit and climb the recently reopened sites in the upcoming season.
"Probably hoping to get down there during springtime and climb in those areas," he said.
The climbing community has thanked Gariwerd's Traditional Owner organisations for their ongoing leadership and support in reaching this agreement.
The reopening offers renewed opportunities for climbers while reinforcing a shared commitment to cultural respect and land stewardship.
There are now more than 122 climbing areas in the Grampians featuring hundreds of world-class climbing opportunities for visitors.