WHILE most of Victoria’s parks and reserves are open, physical distancing directions remain in place.

Practical tips for visiting parks include:

• observe physical distancing of 1.5 metres at all times;
• do not gather in groups of more than 20 people;
• check that the park is open before travelling;
• avoid parks that are usually busy on a weekend;
• bring your own hand sanitiser;
• if a car park is full, no more people can visit that site;
• do not join vehicle queues or park illegally - instead go to an alternative destination;
• stay safe – do not jump barriers or railings to access areas that are prohibited;
• be prepared for cold weather and take safety precautions in areas where there is snow; and
• if you are using barbecue facilities make sure you clean them before and after each use.

Under the direction of the chief health officer, Parks Victoria can be required to close certain sites for public safety due to concerns over physical distancing.

From Friday, June 5, Parks Victoria closed the 1000 Steps and Redwood Forest due to physical distancing concerns until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 21.

Despite interventions by Parks Victoria and Victoria Police to manage physical distancing, vehicle traffic and public safety concerns at these two sites, visitation has continued to be unprecedented necessitating the need to close.

Directions will continue to be enforced through spot checks to ensure compliance with the directions of the chief health officer.

A small number of sites remain closed, or have restrictions in place, so visitors are encouraged to visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/covid19 for the latest information about restrictions and closures.

Communal areas, such as shared bathrooms and kitchens, remain closed as they may increase the potential risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission.