Elioth Gruner was one of Australia’s most important landscape painters. Based in Sydney, he told friends that the areas around Canberra had the greatest clarity of light of anywhere in Australia. Gruner won the Wynne Prize twice with paintings of the Western Edge. The first time was in 1934 for Murrumbidgee Ranges. Gruner’s artistic love for the Western Edge is part of the historic culture of this place. More recently, Australia's revered artist Rosalie Gascoigne was inspired by the same unique landscape qualities, which she described as ‘all air, all light, all space, all understatement.’

Join us for a stroll through this stunning landscape that is so beloved by artists. We will follow the banks of Deep Creek, clad in ancient trees in rare box-gum grassy woodland. Step over the historic, lichen-painted stile to see natural regeneration in action at Stony Creek Nature Reserve. Bring your camera to capture your own views of the clarity of light. Find out how suburban sprawl could bulldoze this precious place and how we can care for it instead.

After the walk, stay for a cup of tea, a biscuit and a chat with fellow participants about the campaign to save the Western Edge.

WALK DETAILS

Sunday 18 October 2026

1:00pm to 3.30pm - Up to 3km walk on easy trails

3.30 - 4.00pm - afternoon tea and chat

MEETING LOCATION

On the left hand side of Uriarra Road, opposite 468 Uriarra Road, Stromlo

Map coordinates: -35.296741, 149.002891

Map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hsHnMubzoGPjLPb86

Directions:

Park along the short trail on the left hand side of Uriarra Road, opposite the blue and red barrel letter boxes at 468 Uriarra Road.

WHAT TO BRING/WEAR

Wear long pants, enclosed shoes, and a hat

Depending on the weather - jacket and beanie

Sunscreen, water, snacks

MORE INFORMATION

See the development proposals in the ACT Government’s Western Edge investigation report: Western Edge Growth Management + Engagement Framework 2023
Sign the petition to save the Western Edge: https://conservationcouncil.org.au/western-edge/
Watch a video about Rosalie Gascoigne's Canberra influences: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-w11Y7SaKA0
Find out how Canberra Museum + Gallery is acquiring Wool Clip by Rosalie Gascoigne for our city's art collection: https://www.cmag.com.au/about/support
For walk inquiries, contact: Jennifer 0416 165 476

Contact the host of Canberra's Western Edge walks - Stony Creek Nature Reserve