Parkland Rangers have discovered illegal trail building activity in several local reserves lately, with digging and jump-making disturbing rare orchid sites and opening up hillsides to erosion.

Ranger Danny Jones has a plea to young trail builders: We know how much fun it is and really appreciate your energy, but please don’t build trails in the reserves. Pulling up native plants and shifting soil in these reserves is illegal and very damaging to these special environments.

Where can you build your own trail? In you own backyard if you can, or ask a friendly neighbour with a spare block or paddock. Wherever you find a good spot, you always need the permission of the owner before you start digging.