Tough going: Upwey Tecoma Junior Football Club players Bailey, Toby and Mason. Picture: Rob Carew
THERE aren't 1000 of them, but the new 602 bluestone steps at the Dandenong Ranges National Park in Upper Ferntree Gully still prove challenging for Upwey Tecoma Junior Football Club players Mason, Toby and Bailey, as well as Parks Victoria's Ranger Roo.
The $460,000 Lyrebird Track Fitness Steps accommodate more fitness buffs as the popularity of the 1000 Steps increases daily.
The distance from the bottom of the steps to the top is 1500 metres and there are three fitness stations along the way.
Environment Minister Ryan Smith said: "These purpose-built fitness steps will offer visitors a better and safer workout and will hopefully encourage more people to get out and experience our parks."