Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners are nearing completion of planned a visitor site upgrade for Lalgambook (Mt Franklin) Reserve in Hepburn Regional Park.
Lalgambook (Mt Franklin) is a cultural landscape that holds special significance for Dja Dja Wurrung people. The crater of Lalgambook was aptly named by the Dja Dja Wurrung as Larnebarramul, the nest of the emu.
Today, the mount is a popular destination for day visitors and overnight campers. A short walk around the rim of the crater offers spectacular views in places not overgrown by pine trees.
The area upgrades will include a new toilet block, new day visitor shelter and defined day visitor parking spaces. Two former camping sites have been lost as a result of the development. Dja Dja Wurrung values are embedded into the landscape design. Environmental, cultural, social and spiritual values drive Dja Dja Wurrung styled park development.
Lalgambook remains open while construction is completed with alternative toilet facilities being provided on site.
This project will set up DJAARA for future projects across Hepburn Regional Park which will continue to improve the range of visitor experiences and visitor capacity throughout the broader park landscape.
DJAARA (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation) is funding and managing the delivery of the project through their Recognition Settlement Agreement. DJAARA have many objectives including embedding Dja Dja Wurrung values into the landscape using Dja Dja Wurrung styled design and infrastructure, incorporating opportunities for traditional cultural practices and customs, and improving visitor experience through upgrading amenities across six jointly managed parks.
