The work was the first service operation through Team Rubicon Australia, a volunteer organisation that deploys veterans to help with disaster response and recovery.

The organisation aims to use veterans’ skills and expertise, while also providing training and employable skills to veterans in their post-military lives.

Team Rubicon crews have helped with recovery for Cyclone Debbie in Queensland last year and the Tathra fires in NSW earlier in 2018.

However the Langi Ghiran work last month was the first time volunteers had been deployed for non-disaster works.

The volunteers – known as Greyshirts – helped clear vegetation from walking tracks near the Langi Ghiran Picnic and Camping Area and the Langi Ghiran Reservoir.

Parks Victoria ranger in charge for fire and emergency management in the Western Basalt District Richard Adams said it was a fantastic initiative.

“This was a great opportunity to get Australian Defence Force veterans out into the park to help maintain and expand their skills, and of course to help improve the park,” he said.

“The group cleared vegetation from the walking track up to the scenic lookout above Langi Ghiran Reservoir, and also from the historic water-race to help reveal more of the area’s history to park visitors.”

Mr Adams said volunteer and community groups played an important role in conserving Victoria’s natural places.

He encouraged anyone interested in volunteering with Parks Victoria to visit www.parkconnect.vic.gov.au.

Team Rubicon formed in the United States, and its Australian branch started two years ago.

Team Rubicon Australia chief executive Geoff Evans joined crews for the Langi Ghiran work.