The sometimes less-than-perfect condition of national park campsite loos is often a hot topic of conversation among grey nomads … but things are definitely looking up.
Parks Victoria is certainly doing its bit by slowly upgrading some of the more ancient toilet facilities.
The latest case in point is the Howqua Hills, where four toilet blocks at Sheepyard Flat North, Sheepyard Flat South, Fry’s Flat North and Fry’s Flat South have just been replaced.
Parks Victoria says the new toilets will improve visitor amenities, accessibility and environmental outcomes across the camping area, which makes a great base for visitors exploring this part of Victoria’s alpine high country.
The new Howqua Hills loos are a hit. PIC: Parks Victoria
The upgraded facilities include an all-abilities accessible toilet at each location, and new rainwater tanks so people can wash their hands.
The project replaced ageing infrastructure, with three of the four former toilet blocks dating back to the 1980s and no longer meeting current environmental requirements.
Parks Victoria says the new designs are sustainable, easy to maintain and compliant with EPA standards, helping to protect the area’s natural values while improving the visitor experience.
Lake Crosbie Campground has been given a major facility boost. PIC: Parks Victoria
Similarly, visitors to the iconic Pink Lakes in Murray-Sunset National Park can now answer the call of nature at improved new toilets at Lake Crosbie Campground and Day Visitor Area.
Parks Victoria says that while the Pink Lakes are famous for stunning landscapes and unforgettable sunsets, practical facilities play an important role in every trip and, in a remote park setting, it’s often the simple things that can make a big difference to a great visitor experience.
It says campers, day visitors and travellers exploring the Mallee now have access to clean, functioning toilets providing comfort, convenience and peace of mind.
The Lake Crosbie toilet upgrade forms part of a broader program of improvements planned for the Pink Lakes.
As future funding becomes available, additional works are proposed at Lake Crosbie, Lake Becking and Lake Hardy, including campground upgrades, road resurfacing, improved signage, walking track enhancements and revegetation works.
The new toilets have been funded from Victoria’s Great Outdoors, the Victorian Government’s $106.6 million program to improve campgrounds, walking trails, 4WD tracks and visitor facilities across Victoria’s parks and state forests.
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