Grampians Trail and waterfalls to receive $7.76 million upgrade

Victoria’s new long-distance Grampians Trail is getting upgraded trailheads while the MacKenzie Falls area will be revitalised with better facilities, enhanced views and trail connections.

MacKenzie Falls is one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in Victoria – and the only one in the national park that flows all-year-round.

The $7.76 million upgrade is another step closer with Thompson Berrill Landscape Design being appointed to design the project following a competitive tender process.

The MacKenzie Falls visitor precinct’s revitalisation will improve safety and access in the carpark, on trails and at the base of the MacKenzie Falls. The scope for the final project looks to include improved educational and interpretive signage, all-abilities access on some trails and improved parking and congestion management.

Parks Victoria will seek feedback on the designs later this year, with the upgrades to be completed in 2024.

McGregor Coxall Australia Pty Ltd has been appointed to plan and design upgraded trailheads along the 160-kilometre Grampians Peaks Trail.

The trailheads are part of an additional $5 million investment by the Victorian Government, giving hikers more flexibility, information and facilities to access the trail. The trailheads are expected to be completed in 2023.

Since opening, hikers have booked more than 7,200 nights camping along on the trail, proving the popularity of this new experience. By 2025, 34,000 walkers a year are expected to experience the wonders of the park, generating $6.39 million in economic benefits and tourism development opportunities.

The State Government is also investing in other areas of the Grampians with a $5.8 million upgrade to Brambuk − the National Park and Cultural Centre as well as a $23.2 million investment towards the Grampians Peaks Trail itself, completed in 2021.

Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio notes “The Grampians Peaks Trail has already attracted thousands of bookings in the short time and these upgrades will allow more people to get out and enjoy nature.

“MacKenzie Falls is one of the most highly-visited locations outside Melbourne, it important we continue to offer visitors an outstanding experience, while also protecting the environment.”

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula added “the Grampians are a key attraction for Western Victoria and these projects will encourage more people to visit, create local jobs and provide a boost to regional businesses.”

To find out more go to www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects