Many parks and reserves across the ACT are reopening following the extinguishing of bushfires and easing of extreme dry conditions. Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman was pleased to invite Canberrans back to many of their favourite parks and reserves, including parts of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
“Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve has been hit hard by recent flooding and fires this year and our team is excited to open the gates again this week, The area between the Visitors Centre and Flints picnic area are open including the playground and the Gibraltar Peak walking track. Western parts of the Reserve, including the Eucalypt Forest and Sanctuary will remain closed while our team work to fix key infrastructure.” Minister Gentleman commented “Googong Foreshore fans will also be happy to know that the area will be reopened on 29 February. Both the northern and southern recreation areas and walking trails through the reserve will open, although the public boat ramp at Drumstick point will be closed due to low water levels. Namadgi National Park, including the Visitors Centre, and Bimberi Wilderness Area remain closed while we make these sites safe for the public access.”
The Minister said that he knew that Canberrans are keen to get back in and we will be working over the coming months to remove dangerous trees and fix key infrastructure to enable Namadgi National Park to reopen Canberrans love our parks and reserves and I am looking forward to seeing people getting back out to explore and enjoy them.
“The ban of naked flames will remain in place across all of ACT Parks and Conservation Service’s managed estate, until the end of March 2020 with the exception of Cotter Campground.” Minister Gentleman commented “We will keep the community updated on our efforts to reopen Namadgi National Park we shift our focus to bushfire recovery. I would like to thank the Canberra community for their support and understanding over the past few months while managing the weather and fire events.”
The following sites are now open to the public:
- Bullen Range Nature Reserve (west of the River only)
- Stony Creek Nature Reserve (west of the River only)
- Gigerline Nature Reserve
- Lower Cotter Catchment
- Rob Roy Nature Reserve
- Blue Range Forest
- Pierces Creek Forest
- Hyles and Sherwood Forest
- Ingledene Forest
- Uriarra Forest