Mount Stromlo

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Mount Stromlo Locality Map
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Mount Stromlo Locality Map

Mount Stromlo is situated a short drive west of the centre of Canberra, Australia, near the district of Weston Creek. Its peak is at approximately 770m AHD.

It is most notable as the location of the Mount Stromlo Observatory (run by the Australian National University) and Canberra's primary water supply treatment plant, supplied by the Cotter River catchment area.

Mount Stromlo Observatory, awaits repair.
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Mount Stromlo Observatory, awaits repair.

Mount Stromlo was devastated by the Canberra bushfires of 2003. The fire fueled by the pine plantation that covered the mountain, destroyed or badly damaged much of the observatory and water treatment plant.

Mount Stromlo is home to some of Australia's best mountain biking. Prior to the 2003 fires there were some of the best and oldest mountain bike trails in Australia. As of May 2006 trails are being rebuilt by Canberra Off-Road Cyclists and Glenn Jacobs. The site will host the 2007-09 Australian Mountain Biking Championships. When complete the Stromlo Forest Park will include up to 140 km of single trail. Canberra Off-Road Cyclists has bid to the UCI to host the 2008 Mountain Bike World Championships on Mount Stromlo, but these were awarded to Val di Sole in Italy.

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