As part of our ongoing work to improve forest security, we are proposing a trial of Allied Locks electronic lock boxes at Mt Allan Forest.
A recent security review highlighted the limitations of traditional lock-and-key systems, particularly where keys can be lost, shared or retained by former users. The proposed trial at Mt Allan will test a modern alternative that replaces physical keys with electronic access, managed through the Salto access management system.
Mt Allan has been identified as an ideal pilot site due to its limited number of access points and relatively low level of operational activity. The trial would involve modifying two gates to accept Allied Locks hardware and issuing virtual keys to authorised users’ smartphones. Importantly, the system maintains a secure access log to help resolve any gate-related issues quickly and efficiently.
If successful, the Mt Allan trial will help inform decisions about expanding electronic access systems to other forests over time. A staged rollout approach allows benefits to be assessed carefully while minimising disruption and managing costs.
This initiative represents a practical step toward improving security, safety and access across our forest estate.