Tracks and Trails Masterplan

The significant increase in visitation and a change in user demand at the University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park has been putting pressure on the park’s tracks and trails, impacting both user experience and sustainability of the trail network. A tracks and trails masterplan is required to help guide the future development and management of the park’s trails to meet future demand and remains a world-class trail facility.

As well as improving the current network of tracks and trails, the Masterplan will consider options for new trails, with a focus on balancing the needs of all trail users and enhancing access during events and peak periods.

ACT Government approached the Stromlo Stakeholder Consultative Committee to request details of trail consultants with the appropriate skills and experience for the job. The recommended consultants were invited to submit a formal offer through a Request for Quote process. The successful consultant was chosen by a selection committee who evaluated all responses against the requirements of the project brief.

World Trail Pty Ltd was selected as the successful consultant for its demonstrated high level of experience, appreciation of the project, and methodology.

The University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park Tracks and Trails Masterplan design is anticipated to be completed by Spring 2023.

Funding to implement the recommendations from the University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park Tracks and Trails Masterplan will be sourced via budget bid to the annual ACT Government Budget process. This is a competitive process where the funding bid will be considered on its merits against other ACT Government priorities.

Additionally, University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park anticipates utilising funding from self-generated revenue activities.

The responses to the YourSay online questionnaire will be summarised into a publicly available report and used by the project team to help inform its decisions.

The recommendations of the Masterplan will be informed by feedback from the community, input by stakeholders and the expertise of the consultant. The needs of all user groups will be considered and balanced as best possible within the constraints of the site, including existing infrastructure, site access and movement, topography, risk, etc.

We have a dedicated, professional tracks and trails maintenance team.

We also have a volunteer program that we are looking to extend over the coming years, and welcome new members to help us keep our tracks and trails to industry standard.