Kokoda Track Memorial Walk reopens after major storm recovery process

The popular destination 1,000 Steps, also known as the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges National Park reopens to visitors today following a big storm recovery process.

Recovery works included the repair and replacing of concrete steps and handrailing along the 1.4-kilometre track in challenging terrain after the devastating 2021 storms and were  supported by part of the $76.5million of state-wide funding by the Victorian Government.

The works will see the 1,000 Steps continue to be a popular destination for tourists and locals and an important environmental landmark at the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

The 2021 storms had a significant impact on local communities, parks, and infrastructure at locations across Victoria.

The 1,000 Steps, and the Dandenong Ranges National Park were among the hardest hit during these events and closed after the storms to ensure visitor safety and to allow works to be undertaken.

The 1,000 Steps was built in the early 1900s, now serving as a memorial and reminder of the famous 1,000 Steps track in Papua New Guinea, location of the World War II battle in 1942.

Victorian Minister for Energy, the Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio notes “Victoria’s 1,000 Steps are an important and popular destination within Victoria, Australia and internationally. This funding has given our well-loved 1,000 Steps a new lease on life, so all visitors can enjoy them for generations to come.”