International - how you can help.

Australia's Victorian Government and Parks Victoria recently announced far-reaching plans to ban climbing at the world-famous Mount Arapiles.

The move, designed to protect cultural heritage and conservation of the area, comes in the wake of numerous other bans in the Grampians and affects roughly 63% of the climbs at Arapiles. Crags that host treasured lines such as Punks in the Gym, the world's first 8b+ put up by Wolfgang Güllich in 1985, in addition to best most accessible climbs will be closed.

The closures risk devastating the small town of Natimuk (population 548), where climbers, artists, and farmers form a vibrant community. Residents fear economic downturns, loss of essential services, and an exodus of professionals like doctors, teachers, and tradespeople.

While locals support cultural heritage preservation and reconciliation, they urge a balanced approach to safeguard the town’s social and economic future.

Your help is urgently needed to advocate for a more balanced approach to the recreational use of Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park / Dyurrite.

DOWNLOAD the Frequently Asked Questions document here.

Here's how you can make a difference.

1.Sign the petition via change.org for international residents. (1 minute)

5. Donate to the Climbing Victoria Advocacy Fund

This fund is to be used to support advocacy for improvements to the Mt Arapiles Tooan State Park Management Plan that are of mutual benefit to Traditional Custodians, the climbing community and the region.

Donate now: https://www.trybooking.com/au/donate/climbingvictoria

SIGN THE PETITION HERE

2. Email your representatives to express your concerns about the closures and the future of our community, and to advocate for transparent and inclusive decision-making. Share your story respectfully. As a visitor of an international climbing destination, whether you have been to Arapiles, or plan to visit, your story matters.

Together, let’s work towards solutions that respect and celebrate cultural values, preserve local livelihoods, and maintain our vibrant community to achieve a long-term, collaborative plan to maintain Mount Arapiles - much as we’ve done already - while respecting cultural and community values alike. Thank you for your support. Know that we are in this together and here to support each other.

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