Released 25/07/2017
As part of the 2017 ACT and region Heritage Festival Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman today unveiled signs for a woodland walk at Black Mountain.
“Black Mountain Nature Reserve is one of the most iconic places in Canberra and a very popular recreational area for locals and visitors,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The new interpretative signage and track markers will further encourage people to explore this part of Canberra and learn more about some of the 670 recorded plant species in this area. More than half of all orchid species in the ACT are present on Black Mountain, together with 47 types of grasses and 50 kinds of daisies.
“The aim of creating the woodland loop walk, beginning and concluding at the Caswell Drive reserve entry, is to raise awareness of the reserve’s native flora from the perspective of local community experts and Ngunnawal traditional custodians.
Minister Gentleman said the ACT Government is committed to encouraging people to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, and that walking in nature was a great way to achieve this.
“Mixing walking with nature is a proven combination to improve your health. This project helps people to appreciate nature, study biodiversity and enjoy a walk with family and friends all within a few minutes of the city centre.”
This project was made possible through an ACT Heritage Grant provided to the Friends of Black Mountain and the Molonglo Catchment Group, both of whom play vital roles in helping protect the plant habitat of the area.
It is just one of many ACT Heritage Grants to be showcased during this year’s Canberra and Region Heritage Festival.
For more information on the walk, including e-brochures, visit www.friendsofblackmountain.org.au
For more information on the Heritage Festival visit www.act.gov.au/heritagefestival
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Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases