General News
5 December, 2024
Climbing is not just a passion for this doctor, it's a work-life balance
Horsham GP wants cooperation and collaboration in climbing bans
Horsham-based GP doctor Felix Ritson says his passion for climbing helps him be a better doctor.
"It provides a work-life balance," he said.
"Practicing medicine is my priority, but I chose to do it in Horsham because of the climbing opportunities.
"Climbing is my main hobby and provides me with a network of friends."
But, since details of the government's updated draft management plan for the Arapiles-Tooan State Park -Dyurrite Cultural Landscape in November and the limits on climbing sites it included, he fears young professionals may be lost to the region.
"I have climbed Dyuritte for 17 years; since I was 15," he said.
"Dyuritte is a special place for me. It is a sacred and homely place, and I understand why traditional owners feel the way they do about it."
However, his favourite place is now at the centre of a bitter struggle between members of the climbing community, Parks Victoria and the government.
Some climbers have publicly said they will leave the Wimmera if the plan is implemented, and others say they will stop visiting unless the government reverses its decision.
"Our concerns are not just about the loss of climbing sites but the type of sites that will be banned.
"Many professional sites have been banned, including multi-pitch sites popular with school camps and single-pitch top roping sites for people with disabilities.
"I don't believe that was intentional, but it has been the outcome."
Dr Ritson said he believed Parks Victoria's secrecy about the percentage of cultural sites against ecological protection areas has caused suspicion in the community, and sadly, the traditional owners are bearing the brunt of the blame.
"So much of the messaging has been poor," he said.
Dr Ritson said his main concern about the new plan is the lack of transparency.
"Climbing is exploding worldwide, including in Australia. It is becoming one of the most popular sports among young professionals.
"The Wimmera was poised to become flush with young professionals because of Dyuritte, but the bans have already had a negative impact.
"Our concern is not just about what we stand to lose now in tourism, climbing and professional people, but what we stand to lose in the future.
"I know of doctors and others who are now backing away from moving to the region.
"Climbers deeply respect Dyuritte's cultural heritage and actively want some of the cultural sites closed for their protection, but with less bans on climbing. They want to be included in the process.
"It would be amazing to have guided tours of the cultural sites, help with the growing prosperity of the region and this community to be a beacon of how it can be done.
"I came here to heal; climbing allows me to do that," he said.
On November 4, Minister for the Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced a $1.7 million investment to improve the facilities at Mt Arapiles. "We want as many Victorians as possible to enjoy the great outdoors. This investment will allow more visitors to appreciate the park while celebrating and protecting its cultural and environmental wonders for future generations."