Get excited: Namadgi and Tidbinbilla have reopened
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Hikers and outdoorsy folk! Have you missed your beloved Namadgi National Park? We have some good news.
This vibrant slice of terrain located just south of Canberra is now open after being closed due to public health directives for six weeks—and it’s not alone.
While Canberrans are being urged to stay within their local areas where possible, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the Lower Cotter and the Murrumbidgee River corridor are all now open to the public.
The ACT Parks and Conservation Service is asking Canberrans who do travel to these parks and reserves to be prepared and adhere to public health directives around mask-wearing, physical distancing and gathering with others.
“We know many Canberrans have been missing places like Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla, but please remember we are still in the middle of the pandemic,” cautions Executive Branch Manager of the ACT Parks and Conservation Service Daniel Iglesias. “Take steps to keep yourself and everyone safe. The last thing we want to see is large numbers that may lead to these areas being closed down.”
While Mr Iglesias explained that rangers will be extending safety precautions including cleaning regimes of public facilities and more signage, he says he wants to see Canberrans playing by the rules.
“If we start to see an excessively high number of visitors that could pose a COVID-safety risk, the ACT Parks and Conservation Service may need to close the area to the public, without warning,” he said.
Mr Iglesias also added that Canberrans should come prepared for all weather situations.
“You may not see a ranger out and about to assist you, so prepare for the conditions and know what you need to do to keep safe and adhere to the current health advice for the lockdown. Please also carefully plan your trips, including hikes and walks, to make sure you can get home within the time allowed for outdoor recreation.”
“Our iconic parks aren’t going anywhere and no Canberran lives more than 3.5km away from a nature reserve. Visiting your local reserve is a great option as many of our local reserves are seeing lower visitor numbers compared to some of the more well-known areas.”
Visitors should note that the Tidbinbilla and Namadgi Visitors Centres remain closed, as do all campgrounds.
Feature image: Tidbinbilla. Credit: VisitCanberra
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