Brisbane Ranges National Park

The Brisbane Ranges National Park is located in Victoria, Australia, approximately 65 kilometers west of Melbourne. Nearby cities and towns include Geelong, Ballarat, and Werribee. Established in 1978, the park has a rich history. It was once part of the traditional lands of the Wathaurong people and has been used for hunting and gathering for thousands of years. The park is home to significant Aboriginal cultural sites, including rock art and stone tool-making areas. Parking facilities are available at multiple locations within the park, with a total of several parking areas. Visitors are generally not charged for parking, but there may be restrictions or fees for specific events or areas. The park is home to a diverse range of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, wombats, and echidnas. Visitors may also encounter a variety of bird species, such as cockatoos, kookaburras, and emus. The park is also known for its population of rare and endangered species, such as the Leadbeater's Possum and the Yellow-bellied Glider. The native flora of the park is characterized by eucalyptus forests, grasslands, and heathlands. Common plant species include eucalyptus, acacia, and casuarina. The park is home to unique vegetation types, such as the coastal scrub and the alpine meadows. Notable features within the park include the Brisbane Ranges, a series of volcanic peaks offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also features several rivers and creeks, including the Lerderderg River and the Blackwood River. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, which range from easy to challenging and offer opportunities to experience the park's natural beauty. Public transport is available to get to the park, with bus services connecting Melbourne to the nearby towns of Geelong and Ballarat. From these towns, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the park.