NEW $40M WALK GETS THUMBS UP

THE creation of a new multi-day wilderness walk in Tasmania is feasible and the government has doubled its funding to $40m to make it a reality.

Parks Minister Jacquie Petrusma said the findings of a study into the Tyndall Range proposal proves it is feasible and will deliver a new and iconic multi-day walking experience.

The Tyndall Range walk will add to the wilderness tourism offering provided by the Overland and Three Capes tracks.

The Tyndall Range, on the West Coast, was selected for its extraordinary,

and spectacular landscape from 35 public submissions in 2019.

The feasibility study was conducted by an independent team of economists and market demand specialists and involved surveys of seasoned walkers, visitors and local businesses.

Multiple route options were explored with the recommended option being a three-day, two-night, hut-based experience.

“With a long history of hydropower development and geological exploration in the area, the proposed route features a rich mix of heritage, mining endeavour, spectacular landscapes and waterfalls including the Lake Margaret

Power Station and its wooden pipelines,’’ Ms Petrusma said.

“The feasibility study indicates that this walk has the potential to generate 139 jobs during construction and a further 40 jobs ongoing once operational in fields such as tourism and hospitality, support services and transport operations, providing significant economic benefits for the West Coast region.“

Design work will now start on planning, hut concept designs and approvals before the project is assessed through the Reserve Activity Assessment process. The public will be given the chance to provide feedback.