Released 20/09/2021
With parks and reserves reopening ahead of the long weekend, the ACT Parks and Conservation Service are reminding the community of their responsibilities to remain COVID-safe.
“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. 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,” Executive Branch Manager of the ACT Parks and Conservation Service Daniel Iglesias said.
“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.”
“Our rangers will be putting in place several safety precautions over the coming days including traffic management, additional cleaning regimes of public facilities and more signage.”
Canberrans are encouraged to remain within and explore their local region where possible. If you do plan to attend one of our parks and reserves this weekend, remain vigilant, act in accordance with health direction, and remember to:
- Wear a mask – masks are mandatory in the ACT, including in our parks and reserves
- Practice physical distancing - including avoiding crowding in common areas such as carparks, picnic areas, playgrounds and toilets
- Come prepared ahead of your visit.
“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,” Mr Iglesias said.
“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.”
Areas reopening on Friday 1 October to the public include:
- Namadgi National Park
- Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
- Lower Cotter
- Murrumbidgee River corridor
The Namadgi and Tidbinbilla Visitor Centres and all campgrounds remain closed.
You can find out more about the ACT’s Pathway Forward on the ACT COVID website.
You can find out more about your local parks and reserves on the ACT Government’s Find a Park website.
- Statement ends -
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