Mount Buffalo National Park is the place to be these summer holidays, with activities aplenty to satisfy the tastes of all the family - young, old and in between.  Celebrating Biodiversity in a Dynamic Alpine Environment is the theme of this year's summer program, which is apt, considering 2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity.

Escape the summer heat and head up to Mount Buffalo for an adventure you won't forget. Paint an alpine postcard, discover macro-invertebrates in Lake Catani, learn about Buffalo's cultural and natural biodiversity, hear a bush story and find out all about how you could become a friend of Ranger Roo.

The local rangers have created an amazing program, which sees them all getting involved to help provide hands-on experiences of the park and the many aspects of its management says Peter Jacobs, Parks Victoria  Chief Ranger for the Alpine District

Catch up with Rudi and learn all there is to know about feral animals and how we protect the natural and cultural values of the park from these pests. Perhaps you might be interested in exploring the Chalwell Galleries track and checking for who has been there before you. Or you can develop your bush detective skills and learn about tracks, scats and territorial markings.

If you feel like an early start, head to Lake Catani and catch up with Clyde - one of our wonderful Buffalo friends, who will help you learn about Buffalo's birds and how they survive in an alpine environment.

Ever thought of becoming a firefighter? Parks Victoria’s trained firefighting staff can give you an insight into the life and times of a bushfire-fighter - you can learn about planning, natural adaptations of Buffalo's plants and animals, and even what a charged fire hose feels like.

“A highlight of the 2010 program is tours of the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet. Join our rangers to experience the grandeur and history of Victoria's 100 year old Chalet.  Tours are around 45 minutes in length and include some behind the scenes service areas of the building” said Peter.

Activities run every day of the week - all events are global-financial-crisis-conscious and free. Some sessions do require a booking, which you can make via the Mt Buffalo Entrance Station (03 5756 2328); information required for bookings includes the number of people you are booking for and a mobile contact number. Please note that an adult must accompany children. And don't forget if your activity is outside to slip, slop, slap and bring some water.