Get climbing a ‘Munro’ this International Mountain Day


Released 25/07/2017

Celebrate the majestic beauty of our local mountains by climbing one in true Scottish style on International Mountain Day, Minister for Environment and Heritage, Mick Gentleman said today.

“In Scotland the term ‘bagging a Munro’ means you’ve climbed a mountain above 914 metres (or 3,000 feet) and is a popular bragging claim for keen hikers and walkers,” Minister Gentleman said.

Munros are named after Sir Hugh Munro, who produced the first list of such hills, known as Munro's Tables, in 1891. If Sir Hugh had visited Canberra he would have definitely added our tallest peak, Mount Bimberi, to the list.

At 1913 metres Mount Bimberi is only 315 metres lower than Australia’s highest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko (2228 metres) and was famously used by Canberra’s architect Walter Burley Griffin to form a ‘land axis’ from Mount Ainslie which intersects a ‘water axis’ from our other local high spot, Black Mountain.

Mount Coree (1421 metres) is another ACT-based Munro, and was the starting point of the 1910 ACT/NSW border survey which led to the establishment of the Australian Capital Territory.

“A third Munro you might want to ‘bag’ is the lovely Mount Franklin. At a lofty 1644 metres it was the site of the first ACT ski resort on the southern slopes and with charming visitor facilities along with interpretative signage it is still a popular destination for bushwalkers,” Minister Gentleman said.

“Of all Australia’s capital cities Canberra is especially spoilt with beautiful mountain habitat and wildlife. While not quite tall enough to be officially listed as Munros Mount Ainslie, Black Mountain and Mount Pleasant are all close to the city centre.

“If you can’t ‘bag’ a local Munro I urge Canberrans to ‘embrace’ one of these local mountains by climbing and exploring it,” Minister Gentleman said.

“Climbing a mountain is a great way to get a full cardiovascular workout. Many climbers add to the experience by logging their altitude, distance and heart rate using phone-based apps and wearable technology.

“You should also follow some simple safety precautions such as always telling a friend where you are going, take sufficient water and wear sunscreen and a hat,” Minister Gentleman concluded.

For more bushwalking advice Visit the Namadgi Visitor Centre, south of Tharwa, or call them on 6207 2900.

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases


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