Three Capes Track works near the end

Final touches to world-class walk

THE Parks and Wildlife Service will this weekend start calling for tenders to help complete the final stage of the Three Capes Track.

Construction of the third stage, which runs from White Beach to Safety Cove at Port Arthur and takes in Cape Raoul, began in February and is expected to be completed early next year.

Parks Minister Matthew Groom said the Parks and Wildlife Service would call for tenders to improve the existing road and car park at the end of Stormlea Rd near White Beach.

This will include a widened road, parking for up to 80 cars and several small buses.

A new public toilet is also planned for the site.

At the Fortescue Bay finish line, works are also under way to provide an improved destination point for walkers finishing the trek.

New facilities include an improved car park, turning area and walkers’ barbecue and shelter.

Tourism Industry Council Tasmania chief executive Luke Martin said the new infrastructure on Stormlea Rd would allow for better access to a Shipstern Bluff day walk.

“While we’re excited about the completion of the track, we’re going to get [access to] an exciting day walk to Shipstern now,” Mr Martin said.

Mr Groom said $7.8 million had been allocated for Stage 3, with the State Government providing $4 million and the Federal Government $3.8 million.

“The reaction to the track has been extraordinary, with a total of 11,527 people walking the track in its first full year of operation and forward bookings up 41 per cent for the upcoming peak period,” he said.

“The success of the Three Capes Track has been fantastic for tourism in Tasmania and especially for those on the Tasman Peninsula, as the people who walk the track are also staying in local accommodation, while shopping and eating locally.”