Rangers cycle up

PARKS Victoria Rangers at Lysterfield Lake Park have adopted the Commonwealth Games spirit by introducing mountain bike patrols in addition to their regular vehicle and foot patrols.
Ranger in charge Brett Mitchell said the initiative was an excellent way to increase visibility throughout the park and promote Parks Victoria’s Healthy Parks Healthy People philosophy.
“Patrols on mountain bikes are a healthy and environmentally friendly way for Parks Victoria Rangers to navigate all areas of the park,” he said.
The new patrols follow the recent launch of Lysterfield Park’s new network of mountain bike trails including the State Mountain Bike Course that will host the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games cross country mountain bike competition.
Parks Victoria Rangers will undertake both mountain bike and vehicle patrols throughout the park on an ongoing basis, increasing their presence and accessibility to all park users.
Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan said the mountain bike patrols were an innovative and effective initiative.
“This is an excellent addition to the way in which Lysterfield Park is managed. With such a range of activities available in this popular park, including 20 kilometres of mountain bike trails, it makes perfect sense and sets a wonderful example in maximising the healthy opportunities in our beautiful natural environment,” he said.