Anne Webster (Mallee, National Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health) Share this | Hansard source

For those who are not aware, the Victorian Labor government last week banned rock climbing at many sites on Mount Arapiles on cultural heritage grounds, and I want to share just some of the reactions of locals. I'll have more to say this evening about how these bans are impacting the regional health workforce.

Here are some excerpts of my constituents' views, starting with Judith Bysouth, Secretary of Natimuk Agricultural and Pastoral Society. She says:

We believe the feasibility of many existing volunteer community groups would disappear if we did not have the Rock-Climbing Community in Natimuk.

The Rock Climbing Community supports the annual Natimuk Show through our unique rock-climbing wall for children.

The Rock-Climbing Club and the wider fraternity prides itself on being part of the community and provides a unique experience for children in a safe environment on Show Day.

Patrick Mikelsons says:

… earlier this year I bought a house here. I had dreams of my 17 months old son growing up with the same connection to Natimuk and Mount Arapiles landscape that I have enjoyed for so many years.

… In all likelihood Natimuk will become just a shell of its former self.

Sadly, Patrick says:

M y family and I will not be staying in the region.

Robert Oliver of Natimuk says:

While the Labor government and its current members have had my vote, I WILL NOT be supporting them again until it makes a significant review of its current park management strategies.

Emma Cooper of Natimuk said:

Years ago, we first arrived at Mount Arapiles with just a tent and the excitement of finally living close to the cliffs we had dreamed of climbing. We set up at the Pines, where we quickly found ourselves embraced by a community of fellow climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. The local town of Natimuk soon became part of that dream, and we transitioned from the Pines to a rental home in Natimuk, bringing not just our passion for climbing, but our professions as a nurse and a counsellor. For many of us, this place is more than just a landmark—it's a part of who we are.

The impact on the health workforce alluded to by Emma is what I will speak further about this evening.

See this speech in context