Tasmania’s iconic multi-day bushwalks are a huge hit with local, interstate and international walkers.
The latest star attraction, the world renowned Three Capes Track, has been a spectacular addition to the Tasman National Park and made a significant contribution to the Tasman Peninsular, stimulating jobs and the economy. The Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) is employing more than 13 full time equivalent (FTE) staff associated with the track, while partners Pennicott Wilderness Journeys and the Port Arthur Historic site employ seven FTE staff.
Since it opened in December 2015, more than 15,838 people have completed the walk. These figures far exceed the Government’s targets and there is no sign of the numbers slowing.
The Three Capes Track is winning a swag of awards. It won Australia’s best new tourism business for 2016 and the design and construction of the cabins has been recognised for innovation, creativity and excellence; with two architecture awards and two construction awards.
It is also gaining recognition on the global stage, recently winning the International Planning and Design Award at the 2017 Trails Symposium in Dayton, Ohio.
Revenues received from the Three Capes Track are expected to exceed $4.1 million this financial year and approach $4.5 million next financial year.
Similarly, revenue for the Overland Track has increased by 2.5 per cent in the last financial year to $1.2 million and is projected to increase by 1.5 per cent over the coming years.
This is revenue that is reinvested into the PWS to maintain and improve the tracks.
Projects undertaken on the Overland Track this financial year include further work at Mt Ossa, track realignment and stabilisation at Hartnett, D’Alton and Fergusson falls, conservation works to Old Waterfall Valley hut and Old Pelion hut and new tent platforms at Pine Valley.
Work has already commenced on the final stage of the award-winning Three Capes Track, upgrading the track to the third cape – Cape Raoul – and the Shipstern Bluff Lookout. The Hodgman Government is providing $4 million and the Turnbull Government $3.8 million towards completing the track.
The Overland and Three Capes tracks are iconic wilderness walking experience that draw walkers from all around the world. The growing success of these tracks means greater revenue for the PWS that is able to be reinvested into continuous improvement of the tracks’ facilities.