Reconstruction of bushfire damaged Tasmanian Parks infrastructure to support local industry

Walking track infrastructure within Tasmanian parks destroyed during the 2018/19 bushfires will be reconstructed and repaired by four Tasmanian businesses.

Timber Growers Direct and McKay Timber will supply more than 25,000 linear metres of treated pine timber to reconstruct burnt walking track infrastructure, while Mtn Trails and Trailblazer Tracks will begin rebuilding walking tracks at Mount Anne.

Tasmanian Minister for Environment and Parks Roger Jaensch said the works would repair 117 kilometres of walking tracks and road infrastructure and added “these works will ensure these much-loved areas are once again accessible for the community to enjoy while directly supporting local jobs during construction, as well as indirect jobs through the supply chain.

“The timber contract will be used to construct boardwalks, bridges, and thousands of steps across the Southwest National Park, as well as rebuilding the first four kilometre section at Mount Anne from the Condominium Creek trailhead to High Camp Hut.

“More resilient materials such as rock and gravel will also be used to repair the track and road infrastructure, along with treated pine in wet and boggy areas and in very steep sections.”

Member for Lyons John Tucker said the projects would allow the tracks to be reopened to the community while providing much-needed support for local businesses in their recovery from COVID-19.

Tucker  adds “the contracts will create jobs for locals at Timber Growers Direct, along with providing work for the 100 Tasmanians working in processing, retail and delivery at McKay Timber.

“Importantly, this means the tracks at Clear Hill, Lake Judd and Mount Anne are expected to reopen this summer, which is great news for locals and will encourage Tasmanians to visit these areas and explore their own backyard.”

Image courtesy of Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service