Pass Creek campsite at Eastern Arthur Range Traverse has reopened in time for the summer walking season, following significant work by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers and Field Officers.
The former campsite was closed following impacts from 2019 bushfires, with tracks now rebuilt in this location and further north at Cracroft Crossing, restoring our natural areas and amenities after the devastating bushfires.
Minister for Parks, Roger Jaensch said works included constructing three tent platforms and a screened platform for a fly-out toilet pod and raised walkways to link all platforms to the main track.
"The repairs undertaken by the PWS and contractors following the devastating bushfires has included 117 kilometres of walking tracks and 119 kilometres of roads, bridges and other assets, which is an incredible body of work to be commended," Minister Jaensch said.
"The replacement campsite at Pass Creek is about 800 metres north of the former site and provides a location that is more sheltered from the prevailing westerly and southerly winds – and better access to a reliable water supply."
Materials were supplied by Tasmanian contractors and were predominantly locally sourced.
The new campsite location will also reduce the spread of Phytophthora cinnamomi (root rot) in the area. This project was funded through the Community Recovery Fund, a joint Australian and Tasmanian Government investment under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
The Eastern Arthur Range Traverse is a remote and difficult Grade 5 multiday track, suited to only very experienced walkers who are confident with rock scrambling and pack hauling on steep cliffs. The area is largely without phone reception and navigation skills are required, so it is important to be prepared.
To help protect the environmental values of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, walkers are asked to follow the Leave No Trace principles, use facilities where provided, remain on the formed tracks and only camp on the platforms provided in these areas.
Experienced hikers wishing to walk the Eastern Arthur Range Traverse should register their trip on the overnight walker registration.
