The ACT Government and the University of Canberra will jointly fund $2.8 million improvements to Stromlo Forest Park.

The ACT Government will build a flow trail from Stromlo to the Cotter (costing $1.8 million). The 15 km trail will link the two popular recreation hubs and pass through nature reserves, allowing riders to experience the unique landscape of the ACT.

• Calls for clear investment plan for Stromlo Forest Park (9 September 2022)
• Jo Clay calls for commitment to mountain biking in ACT (18 October 2022)

Chief Minister Andrew Barr and ministers Chris Steel and Mick Gentleman state this will add another mountain biking experience to Canberra’s cycling and nature tourism offerings.

The University of Canberra will provide $1 million, in exchange for the park being named University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park.

The five-year agreement coincides with the ACT Government’s new Tracks and Trails Masterplan, which will review existing sanctioned tracks and trails, and plan new tracks and trails on the eastern and western sides of the park.

World Trail will create the Tracks and Trails Masterplan and engage with stakeholders and the community on its design.

The community can have their say on the park’s tracks and trails development and expansion, including via the YourSay website, or at pop up information sessions on site on 30 June and 1 July.

Paid parking arrangements will be implemented once the formalised car parking facilities are built towards the end of 2023. These could generate up to $238,000, which the ACT Government will directly invest back into the park’s tracks and trails and general maintenance.

• Paid parking at Stromlo Forest Park later this year (6 February)