NEW TRAIL DEDICATED TO CANBERRA€S CENTENARY

With Canberra's Centenary just shy of three years away, a study of the feasibility and design of a commemorative walking trail is underway, Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services Jon Stanhope, announced today.

The ACT Government will invest $100,000 towards the project which will be carried out by local business CB Richard Ellis and is due for completion in November 2010.

"The design study will look into the feasibility and design of a self-guided Centenary Trail which will journey through rural and urban areas of Canberra," Mr Stanhope said. "Design ideas provided by local community groups will be taken into consideration throughout the study.

"Locals and visitors to Canberra already benefit from a well developed network of walking trails. The study of the proposed Centenary Trail will explore how trails for walkers, off-road cyclists and horse riders can be better linked.

"It is envisaged a Centenary Trail would be an asset to the local community and visitors to Canberra. It could also create a lasting legacy of the Centenary and provide opportunities to experience the history of Canberra throughout the journey."

Mr Stanhope said the Centenary Trail would incorporate a range of scenic attractions including natural, man made and historic locations.

"Interpretive signs would add to the experience by explaining the relevance of each location to Canberra's history," Mr Stanhope said.

"Canberra's Centenary provides the community and visitors to the area with an opportunity to explore our history.

"A trail of this kind could help to paint a picture of the changes which have shaped the Nation's Capital into what we see today."

Media Contact:

Jess Wurf 6205 0504 0411 772 700 jess.wurf@act.gov.au