Three years on from the 2020 Orroral Valley bushfire, recovery efforts are well underway at Namadgi National Park.
Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said the ACT Government has been working on environmental restoration and infrastructure recovery.
"Getting the flora, fauna and other ecological assets harmed by the fire, which burnt more than 80 per cent of the park, back on track was the critical first step because of the important role they play in the ecological balance of the Park" Minister Gentleman said.
"With more than 70 kilometres of walking track impacted by the fires, we're continuing to focus on ensuring Canberrans can get back to safely enjoying all that Namadgi has to offer.
"Thanks to a $6 million grant from the Australian Government's Black Summer Bushire Recovery Fund, we can get a range of new projects started, including:
- Road repairs and upgrades to improve accessibility for land and fire management operations
- An accessible loop trail around the Namadgi Visitor Information Centre
- Upgrades to the Yankee Hat walk, including working with the Ngunnawal community to ensure culturally appropriate and respectful access and interpretation
- A new extended walking track along Honeysuckle Ridge through the Granite Tors and around the Orroral Geodetic Observatory
- Commemoration and interpretation of two heritage listed Stockman's Huts that were destroyed by fire
- Upgrades to Booroomba, Gibraltar Falls and Woods Reserve visitor precincts
"Work on these projects is expected to get underway in 2024 and will focus on improving fire trails and roads, walking tracks, accessibility and visitor experiences in the park. The projects also seek to build resilience to the impacts of climate change and continue to reconnect Traditional owners with Country.
"The ACT Government's recovery and restoration works have enabled the majority of walking tracks to be reopened, including the increasingly popular Mount Tennent walk.
"The significant bog and fen restoration, catchment stabilisation and invasive weed and feral animal control programs required in the fire's aftermath is also showing fantastic results.
"Most species appear to have recolonised impacted areas and we are seeing strong growth of most fire-affected tree species and saplings.
"I thank the Australian Government for recognising the importance of conservation and recreation at Namadgi National Park and their ongoing support," Minister Gentleman said.
