V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 01 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE FROM THE MINISTER

AS we celebrate the reservation of Mt Field and Frecyinet national The people’s parks 100 years ago, it’s important to reflect on the extraordinary asset our national parks represent and the value they contribute to our daily HEY have been the Visitors have long been lives as natural places of wonder people’s parks for a aware of the health and and beauty, as well as important century. wellbeing benefits that contributors to our regional T economies. This year marks the reserves provide to the mind, can rightly be called a world leader in nature centenary of the state’s first body and soul. conservation as we have around 50 per cent of our island state national parks — Mt Field and This can come through art, reserved in parks and various conservation reserves — in Freycinet — which were photography, poetry, music, comparison the world average is around 11 per cent. reserved for all time from storytelling, picnics, quiz Our centenary parks, Mt Field and Freycinet, were set aside as national parks for their scenic and tourism value, however August 29, 1916. nights, beach games, kayaking, since then, their wider value to society is increasingly being This significant milestone is sports or fishing. recognised. being celebrated all year round Spread out across the state, The Hodgman Liberal Government believes our tourism but a highlight will be the our parks and reserves appeal icons such as Freycinet, Mt Field, , , anniversary activities among to everyone from mums, dads the Gordon River, and the are the the tall timber and alpine and children, to people with cornerstone of Tasmania’s tourism appeal. Our parks have a major role to play in delivering on the waterfalls at Mt Field and on disabilities. Government’s promise to transform Tasmania into the the stunning beaches and They are great places for a environmental tourism capital of the world, and they are an granite outcrops of Freycinet range of outdoor activities important asset in achieving our target of attracting 1.5 million in August. such as walking, bushwalking, visitors to the state by 2020. A series of events and camping, kayaking and We need to continue to preserve and protect these areas as well as developing new tourism experiences so that people can activities is already under way. boating. continue to experience these areas for generations to come. This includes special And they provide We have had a positive response to our call for Expressions Discovery Ranger Program everything for those wanting a of Interest in Tasmania’s parks and reserves and look forward to activities, arts projects such as tough off-track hiking seeing these proposals being developed in a sustainable way as the Breath of Fresh Air Film experience through to people they come to fruition in coming months and years. Our national parks and reserves make a major contribution Festival and the Wildcare wanting to sit on the granite to the state’s regional and local economies. This has been Nature Writing Prize, pebbles of Honeymoon Bay at evident from the earliest eco-tourism ventures such as Gustav community festivals at Mt Freycinet. Weindorfer’s Waldheim Chalet at Cradle Mountain (1912), Field and Freycinet, guided Reserves are the through to Gordon River Cruises in 1978, the five Cradle Huts on walks, free entry days and cornerstone of regional the (1987), as well as more recent examples such as the newly created Three Capes Track that opened late other special events. tourism and provide last year. Tasmania’s Parks and opportunities for community We must continue to recognise the extraordinary value of Wildlife Service hopes to bring involvement, volunteering and our parks. Large natural areas enable ecosystems to function the community together to events. naturally and provide refuge for species that come under celebrate national parks as Tasmania’s reserves are full pressure outside of those areas. Water is a very valuable natural places to connect with one of life and are of global resource and the clean water provided by natural areas is of immense value to our community. another and the natural significance with their high The health benefits of natural areas are being scientifically environment, as places that biodiversity, incredible proven as we begin to understand that nature is a powerful conserve Tasmania’s unique wilderness and interactive antidote to the stresses of our increasingly frenetic digital- biodiversity and contribute to opportunities. driven lives. Research has shown that not only do we feel better Tasmania’s economy and way They are also great refuges we when spend time in natural environments, but our mental processes are measurably improved. of life. for animal life and provide The social value of our parks should also be recognised. Our national parks are good scientific opportunities, Many Tasmanians have lifelong treasured memories of family places to have fun, work and including vital places to learn of scenic features and wildlife elevations. The park visits camping, picnicking, walking, fishing, swimming, bike undertake adventures. about the impacts of climate and offers a great range of essentially has two visitor riding, boating and skiing at not only our beloved centenary Far from being the change. facilities for day visitors. sections. The first, near the parks, but also places such as Bruny Island, Maria Island, Cockle Creek and Narawntapu. Parks appeal to all ages and nowhere is exclusive preserve of Mt Field National Park is Few other national parks in park entrance, includes picnic this more apparent than on the new Three Capes Track, where bushwalkers and native plants, one of Tasmania’s most loved offer such a diversity facilities and . three and even four generations of a family are choosing to our parks and reserves have national parks. of vegetation. Stunning walks through spend their leisure time together undertaking a walking many benefits. Its significance is such that It ranges from tall swamp enormous fern forests and experience. Parks and reserves are for many still refer to it as gum forests and massive tree some of the tallest trees in the Finally, I would like to commend the efforts of the staff of the Parks and Wildlife Service and the thousands of volunteers everyone. “National Park” even though ferns at the base of the world are also available in this that bring passion and dedication to looking after our great They encourage both active there are now another 18 mountain, through to a area. reserves. I encourage all Tasmanians to help celebrate this recreation and quiet national parks and hundreds rainforest along the Lake The second visitor section important milestone and become involved in the Parks contemplation. They inspire of formal reserves. Dobson Rd and alpine is centred at Lake Dobson and Centenary celebrations. imagination and creativity. The park has a wide variety vegetation at the higher includes the long day walks MATTHEW GROOM MHA Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS THE Parks and Wildlife Service is indebted to the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office (TAHO) for providing most of the Centenary celebrations photographs for this feature. The search for relevant material has turned up some wonderful images as well as useful information MAY 9-15: National internationally renowned include a diversity of activities, Launceston Campus, 5.30- that has greatly assisted the Centenary project. TAHO’s extensive Volunteer Week. The Parks thinkers and take part in the from Aboriginal culture and 7.30pm. Celebrating the collection of archival and heritage material is online at and Wildlife Service will interactive forum. Followed by craft, to photography, star benefits that parks and www.linc.tas.gov.au/archive-heritage celebrate and highlight the Q&A session. More details gazing, dining opportunities, a reserves provide to Tasmania’s Specific publications and websites: Peter MacFie: Biography William George Crooke Australian work of volunteers and thank available soon. schools day/careers day, economy, society, Dictionary of Biography Supplementary Volume (MUP) 2005 them for their efforts. Working JULY 31: World Ranger Day. music, local speakers, an environment and overall (Australian National University, Canberra); Mt Field — The bees and thank-you events will A celebration of the people amazing race event and much identity. Panel of Evolution of Tasmania’s First National Park (DPW & H) be held in parks and field behind parks, highlighting the more. Venues in Queenstown internationally renowned Tasmanian Field Naturalists Club: Easter Camp-Out 1909 to Wineglass Bay, (TAHO) centres. work of PWS and staff. Local and Strahan. thinkers. Q&A session. More Parks and Wildlife Service website www.parks.tas.gov.au JUNE 23: The Power of working bees and thank-you AUGUST 27-29: Mt Field and details available soon. Tazi Tiger coins, stamps, medal and collectables website http:// Parks. Public forum at UTAS events in parks and field NOVEMBER: Tasmanian www.thestampplace.com/information/stamps/tasmanian- Cradle Coast Campus, 5.30- centres. Centenary Celebrations. Free Breath of Fresh Air Film pictorial-stamps.html Tasmanian Tramp No 11 December 1939 (TAHO) 7.30pm. Celebrating the AUGUST 4-7: Bright Ideas — entry to all national parks for Festival (BOFA). benefits that parks and Innovation and the three days of community Announcement of short-film For the Mercury: reserves provide to Tasmania’s Opportunities in Western celebrations. More details competition winners, film Editor: Damian Bester. Advertising: Peter Carey, Anna Wiegandt economy, society, Tasmania. This combined available soon. screenings. Special thanks: The Stamp and Coin Place and Greg Millar. environment and overall Parks Centenary and National SEPTEMBER 1: The Power of Check for updates at identity. Hear from a panel of Science Week event will Parks. Public forum at UTAS parks.tas.gov.au/centenary 02 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE The people’s parks turn 100

PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE FACT FILE

Aim: to conserve the State’s natural and cultural heritage while providing for sustainable use and economic opportunities for the Tasmanian community

Reserves: 823 National Parks: 19 Marine Reserves: 21 Parks/reserves area: 2.9 million hectares

World Heritage Areas: 3

HAVE A PICNIC: Just an hour’s drive from , Russell World Heritage Area Falls has attracted visitors for more than a century land area: 1.58 million including this schoolboy in the late 1960s. hectares

STUNNING: Exquisite Wineglass Bay in the Freycinet Visitor Centres: 10 (Maria Is, Mt Field, National Park. Picture: TOURISM TASMANIA Freycinet, Narawntapu, Cradle Mt, Lake St Clair, Strahan, Hastings elevations. The park and skiing areas. Dramatic Freycinet National Park offers a wide variety of strenuous activities such as to reconnect with their Caves, Tamar Wetlands essentially has two visitor mountain scenery and alpine consists of knuckles of granite activities. beach strolls, swimming or favourite parks and explore and Arthur River) sections. The first, near the plant communities are a mountains all but surrounded Bird-watchers may be lucky wildlife spotting. new experiences, there will be park entrance, includes picnic feature of the higher parts of by azure bays and white sand enough to see a white-bellied The national parks free entry to all national parks Wildcare volunteers: facilities and Russell Falls. the park. beaches. sea-eagle gliding overhead or centenary provides an in the state for the September 6000 Stunning walks through Since 2013, Mt Field Freycinet is effectively two large Australasian gannet opportunity for the school holidays, which run enormous fern forests and National Park has also formed eroded blocks of granite — the diving for food in the ocean. community to acknowledge its from Saturday, September 24 Partner some of the tallest trees in the part of the Tasmanian dramatic peaks of Walkers can visit the pass strong connection to these two to Sunday, October 9. organisations: 100 world are also available in this Wilderness World Heritage and the Mt Graham/Mt overlooking the perfectly much-loved parks, and the For the full program of area. Area. Freycinet sections of the shaped Wineglass Bay, trek contributions that national centenary events for Mt Field Parks and Wildlife The second visitor section On Tasmania’s mild east peninsula — joined by a sand the entire length of the parks make to the Tasmanian and Freycinet, go to Service staff: 392 is centred at Lake Dobson and coast is the rugged and isthmus. Freycinet Peninsula on a community. www.parks.tas.gov.au/ including 20 casuals includes the long day walks beautiful Freycinet Peninsula. Freycinet National Park three-day walk or try less To encourage Tasmanians centenary. Centenary celebrations Launceston Campus, 5.30- 7.30pm. Celebrating the benefits that parks and reserves provide to Tasmania’s economy, society, environment and overall identity. Panel of internationally renowned thinkers. Q&A session. More details available soon. NOVEMBER: Tasmanian Management and staff would like to Breath of Fresh Air Film Festival (BOFA). Announcement of short-film congratulate Tasmanian Parks and competition winners, film screenings. Wildlife on their Centenary milestone. Check for updates at parks.tas.gov.au/centenary V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 03 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildlife timeline Keeping up with challenges SHAUN McMANUS

PARKS and Wildlife Service general manager Peter 1863 Mooney has seen a lot of change in the agency since he First Tasmanian land set aside for scenic purposes started as a trainee ranger in under the Wastelands Act 1977. Mr Mooney was part of the service’s first trainee intake as an 18-year-old, and has seen it 1865 evolve to become more 300 acres reserved at Russell Falls professional, sophisticated, less reliant on externalising, and shift in focus to use specialists as well as 1915 generalists. While studying surveying Scenery Preservation Board established at university, Mr Mooney saw an ad in the paper for the trainee role and embarked on a four-year traineeship. 1916 “What attracted me was that it would be a job outside Mt Field and Freycinet declared national parks in the natural environment,” he said. With the organisation still in its infancy as he completed his traineeship, a lot of senior staff were recruited from older national parks around Australia, Mr Mooney said. “It was an interesting process because they had good administration skills but little knowledge of the actual 1917 country,” he said. On October 13 Governor Sir Francis Newdegate “As the organisation grew officially opened Mt Field National Park on a day larger and larger it became a marked with a great deal of ceremony and festivity. lot more organised and a lot more consolidated.” After finishing his traineeship, Mr Mooney 1922 began a career that would eventually lead to his role Scenic reserve and wildlife sanctuary established today as general manager. between Cradle Mt and Lake St Clair He believes taking up single-person postings on places like Flinders Island CHANGING TIMES: Parks and Wildlife general manager Peter Mooney and as a young prepared him for leadership park ranger, inset, banding a mutton-bird on Fisher Island in 1983. roles, because he was forced to collaborate with the local Mr Mooney believes one of community has also increased Government and the community in such remote the biggest changes has been significantly. “We look after community will need to locations. to incorporate specialists, such community land and without constantly be thinking about “I took opportunities that as engineers and full-time their support we could never smarter ways to look after the came up that gave me a lot firefighters, alongside more achieve what we achieve,” he land. Other changes likely to more self-reliance and general roles at the PWS. said. impact the PWS will include confidence,” he said. Another significant change Despite all the change that the growth of eco-tourism, Along the way to his he has seen is its ability to has occurred since he started which will create challenges current role, Mr Mooney took tackle bigger projects, such as with the PWS, Mr Mooney and opportunities, and the up senior administrative roles the Three Capes Track. believes there is more to come. types of recreation people to enhance his understanding Mr Mooney has also “It’ll change in the next 50 participate in. 1928 of the governance aspect of witnessed volunteer numbers to 100 years as much as it has Mr Mooney said people the job. with the organisation explode, in the last 50 to 100,” he said. seeking a wilderness Board appointed to administer With the shift to a more from 15-20 when he first He believes Tasmania is in experience were increasingly Animals and Birds Protection Act professional, sophisticated started to around 6000 today, a unique position with nearly visiting remote locations, approach to parks while dialogue and 50 per cent of its lands which would create challenges management since he started, collaboration with the reserved, which means the in the future.

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04 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Keeping up with challenges Ranger’s life not all wild

SHAUN McMANUS staff. Life in the PWS has some within the organisation. As we rewarding moments, he said, manage close to 50 per cent of IRE crew manager including the time that his Tas- the state, it’s imperative that John Duggan is not manian crew unknowingly we have the diversity to meet F the image that springs protected a critically endan- the needs of contemporary so- to mind for most people when gered tree species in NSW in ciety.” they picture a Parks and Wild- 2001. Mr Cuff’s role is to manage life Service officer. “We were deployed to the a number of community eng- The image is that of a wild- Blue Mountains as part of the agement programs, partner- life ranger, but in reality it is Tasmanian contingent,” Mr ships and events across the people like Mr Duggan who Duggan said. “NSW park ser- state. make up much of the 392 cur- vice dropped us into the Wol- That is not to say that he rent parks staff members of the lemi National Park by hasn’t seen his share of the PWS. helicopter.” state with the PWS. “The general public aren’t “We worked for two days on “I get a real kick out of being aware that Parks and Wildlife this fire containing it, and ext- able to travel to all parts of have a lot of firefighters, or inguishing it, and then on our Tasmania and love the passion even have firefighters,” Mr return after two days they told and the characters living in Duggan said. us that we had just protected each corner of the state,” he Parks and Wildlife Service fire crew manager John Duggan started in the service as a It is not just firefighters and the endangered Wollemi said. seasonal firefighter and now runs the day-to-day work for a staff of 34. Picture: RICHARD JUPE rangers that make up the PWS, pine.” “One of the things I really either. There are field officers, Community engagement enjoy doing is helping break Brendan Moodie is the ran- the role was the best part of the internet, and will continue to engineers, community engage- and partnerships officer Sam down the misconceptions that ger-in-charge at Mt Field, one job. do so. ment officers, archaeologists, Cuff has worked with the parks are just for hard-core of two parks celebrating their “You can go from staff man- “I think it will keep going in builders, and marketing and agency for 10 years and agrees bushwalkers but they’re also centenary this year, and he agement right through to bud- the same sort of direction communication officers, to there is a perception that all places to improve your health, says the modern ranger role is get works, through to infra- where we cover a lot more name just a few. PWS employees work out- to learn, to be creative, to more diverse than ever. structure management and than just physical on the Mr Duggan began at the doors. socialise, and to be inspired by Mr Moodie worked with still dealing with the conserva- ground works in the park,” he PWS 21 years ago, first as a sea- “There is that assumption what makes Tasmania so Parks and Wildlife in Queens- tion side as well,” Mr Moodie said. sonal firefighter for eight years that if you’re working with unique.” land for nearly two decades said. Mr Moodie believes that before moving into his current Parks you’re out in the field,” There are still rangers who before moving to Tasmania, He said the ranger’s role has liaising with the community, role as a fire crew manager, he said. “This organisation is work in the field, however, but and has been based at Mt Field changed and diversified in his tourism operators, and com- running the day-to-day work extremely diverse, there’s di- even they have a range of re- for seven years. time in parks and wildlife, par- mercial operators will make up of the agency’s 34 fire crew versity of different positions sponsibilities. He said the varied nature of ticularly with the rise of the a significant part of this.

CHANGING TIMES: Parks and Wildlife general manager Peter Mooney and as a young park ranger, inset, banding a mutton-bird on Fisher Island in 1983.

Government and the community will need to constantly be thinking about smarter ways to look after the land. Other changes likely to impact the PWS will include the growth of eco-tourism, which will create challenges and opportunities, and the types of recreation people participate in. Mr Mooney said people seeking a wilderness experience were increasingly visiting remote locations, Community engagement and partnerships officer Sam Mt Field National Park ranger-in- Interpretation officer Fiona Rice Fire crew member Sarah Castle. which would create challenges Cuff with "Get Outside with the Community" participants. charge Brendan Moodie. photographing the Three Capes Track Picture: WARREN FREY in the future.

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V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 05 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildife timeline Natural beauty drew visitors in droves 1939 Hartz Mountains National Park established Mt Field was a popular destination well before

Hikers boiling the billy beside Lake Esperance, its national Hartz Mountains National Park. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVES AND HERITAGE OFFICE park status

1940 HE Van Diemens Cradle Mountain-Lake Clair National Park Land colony was still established T relatively young when the Mt Field region in the upper Derwent Valley began attracting the attention of the European settlers, but it was familiar territory to abor- 1947 iginal tribes. National Park established They had been in the area for 30,000 years before bush- rangers, escaped convicts, trappers, farmers, scientists, naturalists and pleasure seek- ing visitors discovered the many and varied qualities of the future national park. From the 1830s, trappers worked the high country com- ing in from Montys Marsh (now Ellendale). They cut tracks into the area and made a living by snar- ing wallabies, kangaroos and possums. The wildlife was prolific and as well as providing meat 1967 for the hunters and their famil- Rocky Cape and Strzelecki PICTURE POSTCARD: Early 20th century visitors to Russell Falls at Mt Field National Park. ies, their skins found a ready national parks established Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVES AND HERITAGE OFFICE market.

Late 1960s What’s in a name at Mt Field State Government recommends MT FIELD was named after early settler in the Derwent naturalised plants and was new system of managing natural Barron Field, an early judge of Valley who took up his grant honorary government the NSW Supreme Court. He in the 1830s. botanist. A keen bushman and environment was a keen amateur naturalist Lake Dobson was named member of the Scenery and in 1819 presided at the first after Henry Dobson who was Preservation Board and the sitting of the Supreme Court influential in creating the National Park Board, he in Van Diemens Land. The national park in 1916. helped to establish Tasmania’s name was in use by the 1830s. Lake Webster was first scenic reserves under the 1970 Russell Falls was known as formerly known as Dismal Scenery Preservation Act 1915. National Parks and Wildlife Act 1970 Brownings Falls from about Valley Lake. It was renamed Mt Mawson takes its name 1856 after a local settler. They after A.G. Webster, president from explorer and geologist repeals the Scenery Preservation Act 1915 became known as Russell Falls of the Fisheries Board, a Sir Douglas Mawson. and the Animals and Birds Protection Act after 1884, by which time they Judge Barron Field, namesake prominent citizen of Hobart Mt Mueller was named were already a popular tourist of Mt Field National Park. and company executive of after botanist Baron Sir attraction. The original Russell Picture: MITCHELL LIBRARY Webster and Woolgrowers. Ferdinand von Mueller who Falls, named for a member of Seagers Lookout affords visited Mt Field on a week- an exploration party in the Marriott Falls reflects the wonderful views and was long collecting trek. Guided by Derwent Valley, was located influence of the Marriott named after Mr P. S. Seager, a local trappers the Rayner 1971 on the Tyenna River, family. Originally farmers, former chairman of the brothers, he described the National Parks and Wildlife Service previously known as Russell they capitalised on growing Tasmanian Tourist snow gum, urn gum, cider gum (NPWS) commences operations under Falls River. tourism in the area, opening Association. and cushion plants from the first director Peter Murrell; Lady was Russell Falls House in 1910 Mt Rodway honours meadows around Lake National Parks and Wildlife Advisory named after Clara Barron, wife which was extended to cater Hobart dentist Leonard Fenton. Council established of Sir Harry Barron, Governor for large groups of visitors. Rodway whose real passion Lake Seal honours of Tasmania from 1909 -1913, Lake Fenton appears to was botany. He prepared an Matthew Seal who and Governor of Western have been named after exhaustive catalogue of encouraged piscatorial Australia from 1913 to 1917. Captain Michael Fenton, an Tasmania’s native and pursuits in Tasmania. 06 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Natural beauty drew visitors in droves

Mt Field was ALL ABOUT MT FIELD Location: Upper Derwent Valley, 75km plateaux, in towering rainforests and from Hobart around alpine tarns; cross-country and a popular Area: 15,881ha downhill skiing; camping. Proclaimed: 1916 Visitor facilities: Visitor centre; toilets; Highlights: Waterfalls, dramatic cafe; picnic areas; cooking shelter with destination mountain scenery, glacial and karst electric barbecues; basic campground landscapes; spectacular displays of for caravans and tents; Discovery well before deciduous beech in autumn; Ranger activity program in summer; five outstanding range of plant communities bushwalker huts within park boundary from alpine to tall eucalypts and native (bookings required). its national pines. Interesting fact: Nearly 20 per cent of Activities: Short, medium and Hobart’s water is drawn from the park park status overnight walks to waterfalls, on alpine catchment.

HE Van Diemens Bushrangers and other out- While day trippers confined breed. Men and women ven- fields. Local unemployed Land colony was still laws hid out in the wild coun- themselves to the falls, others tured out into the highland workers formed construction T relatively young try beyond Bushy Park in the went farther afield on to the snow country, often with gangs from the park entrance when the Mt Field region in 1840s, eluding the authorities, Mt Field plateau to admire homemade skis and sticks. to Lake Dobson in the late the upper Derwent Valley plundering neighbouring the scenery and to fish for The popularity of this pas- 1930s. began attracting the attention farms and living off the land. trout in the newly stocked time led to the formation of the Conditions for the men PARK PICNIC: Mt Field in the 1960s. of the European settlers, but it Visiting naturalists used the alpine lakes. Ski Club of Tasmania in 1926. were poor, with frequent com- Picture: THWAITES COLLECTION, TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE was familiar territory to abor- pioneering tracks to explore The area became a magnet One of the club’s first pro- plaints about the sanitary iginal tribes. the area. for artists, poets and writers as jects was to build a hut at Twi- arrangements. They had been in the area They recorded the flora and well as adventure seekers, light Tarn. It was severely cold in win- for 30,000 years before bush- fauna and were captivated anglers and scientists. This still exists and has ter, and wet weather continu- rangers, escaped convicts, by the spectacular mountain With guesthouses springing become part of the folklore of ally hampered proceedings trappers, farmers, scientists, scenery. up at the southern entrance to the park. and caused losses in pay. naturalists and pleasure seek- Their reports of enchanting the reserve and visitor num- Men in tuxedos and women A motor shed was built at ing visitors discovered the tarns, majestic waterfalls and bers increasing, the stage was in long dresses and patent Lake Dobson in 1941, along many and varied qualities of towering forests reached a very set for a boundary extension leather shoes were said to have with new huts. the future national park. receptive audience in the col- and an elevation in status. danced and skated on the fro- The completion of the road From the 1830s, trappers ony. The 11,000ha Mt Field zen tarn in the moonlight to meant that pack horses were worked the high country com- The secret was out and Tas- National Park was created in the strains of music played on a no longer needed in the park. ing in from Montys Marsh mania’s first nature reserve 1916 and was one of the first hand-wound gramophone. With easy access to higher (now Ellendale). was created around Russell such parks to be declared in The ski club hut was among ground, the plateau lakes and They cut tracks into the Falls in 1885. Australia. six huts in the Lake Fenton mountains have become very area and made a living by snar- The falls and other “places The official opening the fol- area. popular destinations for single ing wallabies, kangaroos and of natural splendour” in the lowing year provided even All were heavily booked and multiple day walks. possums. area became so popular that more publicity for the area and during the winter months to The preservation of scenic The wildlife was prolific and the rail network was extended Mt Field soon became a popu- cater for the growing number vistas and well maintained and as well as providing meat in the early 1900s to make the lar centre for winter sports in of winter sports enthusiasts. signed tracks have ensured for the hunters and their famil- reserve easily accessible to visi- Tasmania. The opening of the Lake that Mt Field National Park ies, their skins found a ready tors from Hobart and the Der- The pioneers of skiing and Dobson Road in 1937 greatly has become what its founding MAN OF THE LAND: Assistant ranger Rupert Belcher at Mt Field. market. went Valley. ice skating were a daring improved access to the ski fathers envisaged. Picture: THWAITES COLLECTION, TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE What’s in a name at Mt Field Much of Tasmania’s spectacular coastline is naturalised plants and was protected by our National Parks. honorary government botanist. A keen bushman and From Flinders Island to Port Davey. member of the Scenery Preservation Board and the National Park Board, he helped to establish Tasmania’s JOURNEY THERE first scenic reserves under the Scenery Preservation Act 1915. ON THE WIND. Mt Mawson takes its name from explorer and geologist Sir Douglas Mawson. Mt Mueller was named after botanist Baron Sir Ferdinand von Mueller who visited Mt Field on a week- hobartyachts.com.au long collecting trek. Guided by [email protected] local trappers the Rayner +61 438399477 brothers, he described the snow gum, urn gum, cider gum and cushion plants from the meadows around Lake Fenton. Image: Helsal IV in Iola Bay, Lake Seal honours Matthew Seal who encouraged piscatorial pursuits in Tasmania. V1 - MERE01Z01FC HOBART MERCURY / SUNDAY TASMANIAN, Friday, May 6, 2016 07 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildlife timeline Opening day 1972 Maria Island National Park established Macquarie Island proclaimed a nature reserve

Australian Antarctic Division base on Macquarie Island. Picture: AAD/CHRISTO BAARS 1973 Mt William National Park established

1976 Southwest and Asbestos Range national parks established

1977 Trainee ranger program introduced

1978 Walls of Jerusalem National Park established; Discovery Ranger Program established

1981 Franklin-Lower Gordon Wild Rivers National Park established

Photos: Pierre Destribats, Parks tasmanregion.com.au Explore the Port Arthur and Tasman Region

08 HOBART MERCURY / SUNDAY TASMANIAN, Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Opening day at the people’s park

T was a red-letter day in the upper Derwent Val- I ley on October 13, 1917. Tasmania’s first national park was being officially opened at Mt Field, having been pro- claimed in 1916. The honours were per- formed by the state governor of the day, Sir Francis Newde- gate, who was visiting the area for the first time. He travelled with his wife and daughters by motor car and was met by enthusiastic locals dressed in their Sunday best eager to make a good im- pression on the king’s rep- resentative and his entourage. Two special trains were laid on for official guests and vis- itors from Hobart and vacant seats were filled by passengers picked up en route. Passengers were treated to a delightful rail trip which, according to the Mercury’s report, showcased “nature decked out in her springtime finery”. The scene was set for a day of picnicking, pomp and cer- emony followed by popular en- tertainment — a woodchop- ping carnival keenly contested by visiting axemen and tal- ented locals, among whom were young lads competing in maiden and boys’ events. Opening day at Mt Field The opening took place in National Park. front of the park’s sparkling Pictures: TASMANIAN ARCHIVES AND white timber gates which the HERITAGE OFFICE governor unlocked with a specially crafted silver key in take a pride and interest in it the shape of a gumleaf. and ensure that bushfires were Ministers of the Crown, prevented because the park members of the National Park supported some of the finest Board and representatives of timber in Tasmania. local government turned out in Park pioneer William great numbers to extol the vir- Crooke, described by Sir tues of not only the mag- Francis as the father who had nificent 11,000ha park but the nurtured a baby, had the final “unselfish gentlemen” who word. had so wisely pushed the cause Mr Crooke said that while for scenery preservation. the tourism potential of the Sir Francis delivered “a park had been emphasised, the happy speech” and told the area had been preserved to crowd he was honoured to enable Tasmanians, far into “unlock the door to the peo- the future, to see what their ple’s park”. primeval home was like. He was sure the park would He said the park would also continue to grow more and preserve native flora and fauna more valuable to the commun- and provide recreation for the ity and noted that all should people of Tasmania.

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V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 09 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE

tourism potential of the area was realised. Parks and Wildlife Crooke was a founding member of the National Park timeline Board in 1917 but tourism was only part of his dream for Mt Field. His passion was more 1985 focused on preservation: to Appointment of inaugural Tasmanian enable future Tasmanians to see what primeval Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area was like, conserving native Consultative Committee flora and fauna, and providing a recreation area for the people of Tasmania. In the last three years of his 1987 life, William Crooke fell out NPWS loses its “National” tag and is with the National Parks Board and resigned, devoting his absorbed into the new Department of Lands time to organising large Parks and Wildlife. It moves into its present excursions to the park for Hobart location in Lands Building. schoolchildren to enhance their appreciation of the “wonderful and magnificent beauty” of the Russell Falls area. 1989 This falling out may have to Douglas-Apsley National Park created; do with the board changing Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area the name of Lake Jollytail (the increased to include Central Plateau alias Crooke used when Conservation Area writing for the Mercury) to Lake Nicholls in honour of a board member. In 1919 Crooke was devastated by the destruction of his fishing cottage at Tyenna, and died a year later. 1991 The obelisk memorial was First Tasmanian marine unveiled in 1924, four years reserves established at after his death by the then REVERED: William Crooke. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE premier J.A. Lyons. The Maria Island, Governor function was attended not Island, Tinderbox and only by dignitaries but by 450 Ninepins Point schoolchildren who travelled by train to pay homage to the Father of Mt Field man who had made it possible for so many of them to visit Mt Field through his patronage of the Children’s Excursion Association. National Park At the memorial dedication 1993 Crooke was described as years Park entry fees introduced CONSERVATIONIST and Association and from 1904 he the Mt Wellington and ahead of current thought and schoolteacher William Crooke was fishing correspondent for Queen’s Domain parks in intensely patriotic, is etched in history as the the Mercury, using the column Hobart, and of wildlife wonderfully progressive, “Father” of Mt Field National to air environmental issues. reserves including bird courageous and tenacious. Park. He was influenced by park sanctuaries. It stands near the public 1995 A substantial bluestone models in Africa and the As the key figure in the shelter 100m from the park First Aboriginal trainee rangers appointed memorial commemorates his United States and declared campaign for a national park entrance. At 4.5m tall, it is wonderful energy and that “rivers should be national in the Russell Falls area, he simple in design. The perseverance that led to its property”. formed the National Parks inscription reads: “In memory formation and declaration. His interests were not Association in 1912. of William Crooke, 1846-1920, Crooke was a founding confined to the Mt Field area. A reserve of 5000 acres was mainly through whose efforts member of the Southern In 1906 he promoted the extended to 27,000 by the this park was reserved for the Tasmanian Licensed Anglers’ concept of land reservation for government of the day as the people of Tasmania.”

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Tassielink Transit operate a state wide bus network ofering regular route and charter services across Tasmania. We access iconic bushwalks such as Te Tree Capes Track, Overland Track, Frenchmans Cap and connections to other National Parks. You can visit historic villages and towns, local attractions and amazing scenery.

Ph 1300 300 520 email [email protected] ...to share with you the breathtaking beauty of Tasmania’s www.tassielink.com.au most spectacular tracks and trails taswalkingco.com.au Congratulations Tassie Parks on your amazing 100 year milestone CRADLE MOUNTAIN • BAY OF FIRES • WINEGLASS BAY

10 HOBART MERCURY / SUNDAY TASMANIAN, Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE tourism potential of the area was realised. Crooke was a founding member of the National Park Board in 1917 but tourism was only part of his dream for Mt Field. His passion was more First ranger knew focused on preservation: to enable future Tasmanians to see what primeval Tasmania was like, conserving native flora and fauna, and providing a recreation area for the people of Tasmania. In the last three years of his life, William Crooke fell out his park like a book with the National Parks Board and resigned, devoting his T Field’s first ran- under his watchful eye. As well time to organising large ger, Bill Belcher, as being handy with the ham- excursions to the park for M was appointed in mer and a formidable bush- schoolchildren to enhance 1917 and devoted his life to the man, Bill was also good- their appreciation of the park until his death, aged 62, in natured and welcoming to “wonderful and magnificent 1934. park visitors. beauty” of the Russell Falls The Belcher family has a He was described as “the area. long attachment to the Upper ranger who knows every stick This falling out may have to Derwent Valley. and stone, and is one of the do with the board changing The Belchers were first re- kindliest, best-tempered and the name of Lake Jollytail (the corded in wittiest men alias Crooke used when the 1860s walking the writing for the Mercury) to when Bill’s earth”. Lake Nicholls in honour of a father came He was a board member. from En- keen angler In 1919 Crooke was gland as a and accom- devastated by the destruction young man plished skier, of his fishing cottage at and selected and was also Tyenna, and died a year later. land near r e n o w n e d The obelisk memorial was Westerway. for his help- unveiled in 1924, four years Y o u n g fulness to after his death by the then Bill explored skiers and premier J.A. Lyons. The his wilder- bushwalkers function was attended not ness back- as well as only by dignitaries but by 450 yard so less adven- schoolchildren who travelled thoroughly turous park by train to pay homage to the it was said sightseers. man who had made it possible that “he The governor’s tribute to Mr and Bill’s wife for so many of them to visit Mt knew it like Mrs Belcher enthusiasti- Field through his patronage of a book”. cally assisted the Children’s Excursion Well before the park was in the care of the park and its Association. formally declared, he had con- visitors. At the memorial dedication structed many tracks to scenic In 1930, state governor Sir Crooke was described as years viewpoints, forest glades and James O’Grady presented Bill FIRST RANGER: Bill Belcher pictured in the Tasmanian Tramp magazine in 1934. ahead of current thought and lakes. and his wife with an illustrated Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE intensely patriotic, He built the first solid hut at commemorative address ac- wonderfully progressive, Lake Fenton and other struc- knowledging his “above and occasion of your silver wed- “On behalf of the park visi- Church of England cemetery “Bill” Belcher’s obituary was courageous and tenacious. tures visited by adventurous beyond” contribution to the ding [anniversary]. tors to whom you have always at Plenty, near New Norfolk. published in the Mercury on It stands near the public visitors to the area. park. “The work you, Mr Belcher, accorded courtesy, we desire to The director of the Govern- Friday, 25 May, 1934. shelter 100m from the park Bill’s horse, Runic, and his It read: “Mr and Mrs Wil- have done in your capacity as express thanks and offer you ment Tourist Bureau, Mr T. It appeared alongside ad- entrance. At 4.5m tall, it is stablemates hauled materials liam A. Belcher, National Park, ranger is well known and ap- and yours the very best wishes Emmett, was among the vertisements for films at the simple in design. The and provisions to Lake Fenton Tasmania: On behalf of the preciated, and to this may be for the years to come.” mourners at the funeral as Prince of Wales and Avalon inscription reads: “In memory and beyond. many visitors who have en- added the attention, which you Ill health forced Mr Belcher were representatives of the theatres and a short article of William Crooke, 1846-1920, The entrance gates, which joyed the scenic and other at- both have given to the inter- into premature retirement and National Park Board, the Ski- proposing a torch-bearing run mainly through whose efforts feature in photographs of the tractions of National Park, we ests of the park in general, and he died at his home soon after ing Club of Tasmania, the Field from Athens to Berlin to her- this park was reserved for the official opening of Mt Field desire to present you with this the welfare of the camping par- he hung up his badge of office. Naturalists Club and students ald the Berlin Olympic Games people of Tasmania.” National Park, were built slight token of esteem on the ties in particular. He was buried at the of the National Park School. in 1936. 17408

...to share with you the breathtaking beauty of Tasmania’s most spectacular tracks and trails taswalkingco.com.au

CRADLE MOUNTAIN • BAY OF FIRES • WINEGLASS BAY

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12 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE

Beautiful Russell Falls at Mt Field National Park in the upper Derwent Valley. Picture: IAIN ELRICK

V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 13 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildlife timeline King of the mountain SEVEN years after his con- quest of Mt Everest with Ten- zing Norgay, Sir Edmund 1996 Hillary completed a 15-day PWS interim website launched; Mole walk in the state’s South-West in 1960. Creek Karst National Park established Sir Edmund also attended a Mt Field National Park Easter Camp arranged by the Adult Education Board, which attracted 113 young people from all over Australia. While at Mt Field, he opened the Hobart Walking Club’s Peterson memorial hut on K Col. 1997 His Everest and Antarctic South Bruny National Park established; companion George Lowe 396,000ha added to Mt William and attended a Mt Field camp the Freycinet parks under Regional Forest following year. Agreement Lowe was said to have dem- onstrated great athleticism and strength by rapidly trav- ersing a boulder field at the 1999 camp just as Sir Edmund had Tasman and Savage River done. national parks created Norgay hosted a camp at Mt Field in 1963. Like Lowe, he entertained 2000 camp participants with his Macquarie Island Marine Reserve mimicry of birds, stories of proclaimed; Asbestos Range National Park mountaineering and amusing incidents at high altitude. renamed Narawntapu Norgay was presented with a birthday cake fashioned to THE CONQUEROR: Sir Edmund Hillary outside the Pandani Hut at Mt Field in 1960. represent Mt Everest. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE

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14 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE King of the mountain Memories of the Marriotts of Park House

THE entrepreneurial Marriott family horse-drawn carriage known as a Park House was largely self-suf- Field National Park, as well as donat- opened Russell Falls House in 1910 to brake. His wife Mabel greeted the ficient. It was situated on the family’s ing land for a children’s playground. provide lunches and afternoon teas guests and was assisted with the farming property with paddocks for During the 1940s and ’50s winter for the growing number of visitors to catering by family members and grazing stock, a killing shed, several sports were held on the lakes and the Russell Falls Reserve. other locals. other outbuildings and a disused oast tarns with participants retiring to The establishment was built on the As the popularity of the area grew, house. Some of the original hopfields Park House for well-earned refresh- banks of the Russell River at what was more guesthouses sprang up. Charles were replaced by a large garden of ments. to become the village of National and Mabel’s business kept pace as smallfruits. Later sold to an interstate develop- Park. well and their original single- Park House at Mt Field National Park. With considerable fresh supplies at er and converted to a ski lodge, the Forever the congenial host, storeyed, six-room establishment was its disposal, the guesthouse catered house burnt down in 1964. A large Charles Marriott met the train at extended to 36 rooms and became fortable lodgings provided a welcome for the official opening of the Mt Field picnic ground and camping area at Westerway (then still known as Rus- known as Park House. retreat to mainland visitors who, after National Park in 1917. the park entrance now occupies the sell) and transported passengers to It was a popular stopover, with a a day on the slopes, preferred it to the Charles Marriott sold some of his Park House site and part of the hop- the guesthouse — eight at a time in a dining room for 80 people. The com- ski huts on the plateau. large holding to the board of the Mt grounds. Mt Field’s welcome lure

RECORD 147,000 history of the Tasmanian people visited Mt Wilderness World Heritage A Field National Park Area, including that Mount in the year ending June 2015. Field was added to the area in Facilities at the visitor 2013. centre as well as tracks, huts Completing the circle are and other infrastructure are panels that detail the World being updated to ensure all Heritage values of the THE CONQUEROR: Sir Edmund Hillary outside the Pandani Hut at Mt Field in 1960. visitors — day, overnight and TWWHA. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE longer term — have a great At the back of the visitor experience. centre, a 40sq m extension to The most visible changes the Waterfalls Cafe is are at the visitor centre, where providing more seating, a new welcome sign provides helping to meet the demands an improved sense of arrival of increasing visitation. and the opportunity for a The walk to Russell Falls is souvenir photograph. also set for a major upgrade. A 10-tonne rock column is The three-tiered waterfall the foundation of the sign, that has captivated visitors for which includes the standard more than a century is, not blue-plinth Mt Field National surprisingly, the most popular Park identifier, along with a attraction in the park, with 87 Tasmanian Wilderness World per cent of park visitors Heritage Area sign below. walking the short distance to Three tall panels featuring the falls. Mt Field icons of waterfalls, The track will be resurfaced fagus and a wedge-tailed eagle, to a 1.8m width with an even sit behind the horizontal grade, so that those using planks, providing a striking wheelchairs can enjoy the frame for a memorable photo. journey to the falls more In front of the sign, an area comfortably. The $220,000 large enough for groups has project will begin this year. UPGRADES: Growing numbers of visitors flock to Mt Field National Park. Picture: TASMANIA PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE been paved with local With increasing numbers of sandstone. visitors making their way up A path leads to the second the Lake Dobson Rd to the grants. repainted and is in good repair. Field. It was a challenge to find The apprentice was aged 60 interpretative area that alpine area of the park, a At Lake Dobson, planning The heritage-listed suitable timber to replace the and the master was 82. features sandstone and rejuvenated track has been is under way to replace the day Government Huts are also deteriorating vertical-board At the Mt Mawson ski field, dolerite paving in the shape of provided to Wombat Moor. shelter’s sewage system. being rejuvenated. These were walls of the huts. plans are also being the World Heritage Area logo. Several hundred metres of As a jumping off point for built in the 1940s for use by the Fortunately a team was considered for a new public A brushed aluminium sign timber planking has been the ski field and the Tarn Shelf Lake Dobson Rd workers and located in the New Norfolk shelter, following the in the centre of the logo replaced, thanks to the Friends walks, the shelter gets a fair bit remain a popular low-cost area to produce traditional demolition of the Sitzmark provides detail about the of Mt Field and community of use. It has recently been accommodation option at Mt hand-split palings. Lodge in 2013.

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V1 - MERE01Z01FC HOBART MERCURY / SUNDAY TASMANIAN, Friday, May 6, 2016 15 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildlife timeline Freycinet a 2002 National Park created What’s in a 2004 Port Davey-Bathurst Harbour and Kent name? A Group marine reserves established; Discovery Ranger Program celebrates colourful 25 years and wins national award; First intake of Aboriginal field officer trainees rich history

FREYCINET Peninsula was originally named Vanderlins 2005 Eylandt by Dutch explorer Overland Track booking and fee system Abel Tasman during his 1642 implemented voyage of discovery. The French title, Freycinet, came 160 years later when Baudin’s scientific expedition charted much of the area and named 2006 major landmarks. Brothers Honeymoon Bay takes its name from the newlyweds who holidayed in the area. Overland Track celebrates 75th Louis and Henri Freycinet Picture: HENRY ALLPORT COLLECTION, TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE anniversary; State Government were highly regarded naval proposes Three Capes walking track officers aboard the Geographe name. The Hazards were reportedly settled in the Cooks Corner was where and were among the crew that referred to as Schouten Tier in Swansea area in 1821. Their Athol Cook grazed sheep and landed overnight on Schouten the early days. families were regular visitors cattle in the late 19th century. Island. Coles Bay may have been to the Freycinet Peninsula. Slaughterhouse Bay is was named after Silas Cole who Mt Graham takes its name probably connected with named by Abel Tasman after tended stock on the Swanwick from the Glamorgan whaling operations. Justus (Joost) Schouten, one of estate. He burnt oyster shells municipality’s first warden, The Fisheries is where a the members of the Council of from large Aboriginal middens John Graham. whale fishery (The Old Dutch East India Co and a on Richardsons Beach to Friendly Beaches was first Fishery) was established at capable diplomat, courtier and make lime that was shipped to used on a map in 1944. Local Parsons Cove in 1824 by one of negotiator. He was convicted Swansea for use in mortar. narratives say the beaches the first settlers at Swansea, of sodomy, a capital offence in Mt Parsons and Parsons received the name from George Meredith. 17th century Netherlands, and Cove honour Harry Parsons friendly contact at this Richardsons Beach takes burnt at the stake. who retired to Coles Bay in the location between early its name from Ron Richardson Cape Tourville was named 1920s and promoted the European sailors and who built The Chateau 2007 by Baudin after Anne tourism potential of the area. Aborigines. Captain James holiday shacks. Richardson Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Hilareon de Costentin, Comte He built tourist huts on the Cook was said to have found was initially granted a 21-year Area celebrates 25th anniversary; de Tourville, the famous beach at The Fisheries. water there. land lease which was later PWS signs up to multi-agency French commander who Mt Dove and Mt Mayson Wineglass Bay did not get extended to 99 years. The fuel reduction burning program served under King Louis XIV. have ecclesiastical roots. its name from the shape of the Brand family assumed the The Hazards, those Reverend Joseph Mayson was bay as is commonly assumed, lease when they bought The glorious granite outcrops, may Swansea’s first Church of but from the bloodstained Chateau in 1970 which was present a few risks to climbers, England minister and the sand resulting from whaling sold in 1990 and redeveloped particularly after rain, but they Reverend Thomas Dove was operations in the bay. as the Freycinet Lodge. 2008 were named after an African- the town’s first Presbyterian Bryans Beach recalls Honeymoon Bay PWS online shop created; American whaling ship minister. Thomas Bryan Snr who was celebrates the many website upgrade captain, Albert (Richard) Mt Amos, another the first person to work on the newlyweds who spent their “Black” Hazard. The long attractive peak in the Hazards peninsula. His son John was a honeymoons at the adjacent beach on the western side of range, is a reference to Adam shepherd at Bryans Beach for tourist accommodation, The the isthmus also bears his and John Amos who Swansea farmer Frank Gill. Chateau.

NRM South is proud to partner with the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania on projects that protect our island’s unique and fragile ecosystems.

As part of Tasmania’s Biosecurity Network, we are helping to stop the spread of pests, weeds and diseases.

For more information on NRM South and our biosecurity initiatives, visit: www.nrmsouth.org.au/biosecurity

This project is supported by NRM South, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.

16 HOBART MERCURY / SUNDAY TASMANIAN, Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Freycinet a place of fascination

Location: Central East Coast, 2½ hour Visitor facilities: Visitor centre; picnic FREYCINET FACTS drive from Hobart or Launceston grounds with electric barbecues; Area: 16,900ha toilets; freshwater; campgrounds; Proclaimed: 1916 Discovery Ranger program in summer. Highlights: Impressive granite peaks; Interesting fact: Freycinet granite spectacular cliffs; long sandy beaches; was prized as a feature material in wildflowers; scenic lookouts. architecture, used in the Common- Activities: Short, overnight and multi- wealth Bank’s head office, Hobart day walks; swimming; boating; Marine Board building and Parliament camping; bird watching; snorkelling; House in Canberra. The quarry closed diving; rock pool rambling; in the 1970s because of high running beachcombing. costs and environmental concerns. Flora and fauna a magnet for scientists, enthusiasts REYCINET has long women arriving on the steam- entertainment around the The steamer dredged for been a wildlife hot- er Koonookarra from Hobart campfire including singing, shells and other invertebrates F spot with pademel- to document the geology, cornet solos, recitations, lec- in the bay without much suc- ons and wallabies enchanting fauna and flora of the area. tures and some random ad- cess but a fishing trip netted a visitors since the early 1900s. At the time it was probably dresses including an account tremendous haul of table fish. Honeymoon Bay takes its name from the newlyweds who holidayed in the area. The area is also a twitcher’s a record number for a private by Mr Tarleton of his meeting Great excitement was pro- Picture: HENRY ALLPORT COLLECTION, TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE delight with a variety of native camping party in Tasmania. with the Kelly Gang while he vided by a hapless shark that bird species capturing the len- The men were accommo- was manager of a bank in ran shore while chasing fish. Cooks Corner was where ses of binoculars and cameras. dated in 15 tents and the NSW. It was dealt with by those Athol Cook grazed sheep and Its attributes certainly cap- women, some distance away, Campers were encouraged aboard Koonookarra and later cattle in the late 19th century. tured the interest of the Tas- in four tents. to make the most of the glori- towed to the camping area Slaughterhouse Bay is manian Field Naturalists’ A bugle call woke the ous weather and their rela- where it was duly measured probably connected with Club in the early 20th century. campers each morning and tively short time at this (seven feet or 2.1m). whaling operations. Large parties of budding also summoned them to wondrous location. Club secretary E.A. Elliott The Fisheries is where a ornithologists, biologists and meals. Included in the party They busied themselves in noted that Freycinet Penin- whale fishery (The Old botanists signed up for expedi- was zoologist and university various pursuits with walks to sula would form an ideal na- Fishery) was established at tions to Schouten Island and lecturer Theodore Flynn, Mt Freycinet, Hazards Beach tional park. “And some day it Parsons Cove in 1824 by one of Wineglass Bay. whose son Errol the Holly- and Coles Bay while some must be done. Only more’s the the first settlers at Swansea, The Easter camp of 1909 at wood star was born that year. sketched and painted. The pity that the delay has been so George Meredith. The ladies’ tents at the Tasmanian Field Naturalists Club Wineglass was a major logisti- The camp report gives a twitchers were kept busy not- long that the native fauna has Richardsons Beach takes camp at Wineglass Bay in 1909. cal exercise with 85 men and glowing account of evening ing 33 species on the bay. been well nigh exterminated.” its name from Ron Richardson who built The Chateau holiday shacks. Richardson was initially granted a 21-year land lease which was later extended to 99 years. The Brand family assumed the lease when they bought The Chateau in 1970 which was sold in 1990 and redeveloped as the Freycinet Lodge. Honeymoon Bay celebrates the many newlyweds who spent their honeymoons at the adjacent The Field Naturalists Club’s Easter Camp at Freycinet in 1909. Beach shacks at The Fisheries. tourist accommodation, The Picture: TASMANIA PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Picture: HENRY ALLPORT COLLECTION, TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE Chateau.

NRM South is proud to partner with the Freycinet Adventures Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania on projects that protect our island’s unique Celebrating 20 years and fragile ecosystems. of award winning sea kayaking in the heart of Freycinet National Park As part of Tasmania’s Biosecurity Network, we are helping to stop the spread of pests, Experience Freycinet National Park weeds and diseases. from a whole new perspective

For more information on NRM South and our biosecurity initiatives, visit: www.nrmsouth.org.au/biosecurity

PH: 03 6257 0500 www.freycinetadventures.com.au This project is supported by NRM South, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.

V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 17 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Parks and Wildlife timeline Whaling’s stain 2009 PWS presence on Facebook, Twitter, HE waters around YouTube and Green TV; Bird in the Hand Tasmania yielded iPhone app launched; track permit system T huge quantities of whale and seal oil to satisfy the introduced in the Arthur-Pieman demand for industrial lubri- Conservation Area; 14 new marine cant and lighting in 19th cen- conservation areas declared in the tury Britain. Bruny Bioregion Sealing parties cruised , hunting down their quarry on offshore rocks and islands in the 1800s. Whaling ships joined them 2010 in the mid-1820s and colonists World Heritage listing for Maria Island on the East Coast soon realised National Park Probation Station the potential of this leviathan fishery. Shore parties were estab- lished during the winter to co- incide with the migratory path 2011 of southern right whales as Macquarie Island pest eradication program they swam north from Ant- aerial baiting completed; PWS launches Frog arctica. Log iPhone application Among the entrepreneurial businessmen was Swansea set- tler George Meredith, who es- tablished a whale fishery called the Old Fishery at Parsons Cove in 1824. It operated until the mid The Flurry by William Duke, captures the action as the harpooner prepares to strike. 1830s. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE Methods of pursuit, capture Miners and farmers tried their luck BUSHWALKERS, beachcombers, shore parties 2012 from visiting vessels, divers Crown Land Services merges with PWS and other visitors are able to come face-to-face with Freycinet’s history. There is extensive evidence 2013 of Aboriginal and European Construction begins on the new world-class occupation on the peninsula and outlying islands. tourism experience, the Three Capes Track; Aboriginal shell middens, 221,000ha of former Forestry Tasmania rock quarries, rock shelters land transferred to PWS and stone artefacts as well as remnants of shepherd huts, mining sites, whaling stations and shipwrecks make for interesting discoveries for 2014 visitors. Parks Passes available online Freycinet Peninsula and outlying islands formed part of the territory of the Oyster Bay The 1840s Schouten Island coal mining jetty. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE Tribe. They ranged from the 2015 Derwent estuary up the east reacquired the island and 1880s. The old tramway was surface deposits during the Bookings open for the Three Capes Track coast to the Fingal Valley and leased it to private concerns. extended and a cutting late 19th and early 20th westward to the Midlands. The Australasian Smelting running west from Crocketts centuries with limited success. Relics of their cultural Company, formed in 1848, Bay marks the line it once Work was centred on heritage remain. Captain continued the work started by took. Saltwater Creek (north of James Kelly recorded a party the Garlands. Over the years, coal has Coles Bay) and Middleton of Aborigines on Schouten Edward Crockett was also been mined north of Creek (near Bluestone Bay). Island. appointed as mine manager, Freycinet at the Denison and Chinese tin miners were Sealers and whalers were and more than 60 convicts Douglas rivers, Llandaff and among those who worked on among the first Europeans to were hired as labourers. Mt Paul. the peninsula and Schouten regularly visit the area. Sealer In 1850 it was reported that In 1923, construction began Island during the 1880s. Joseph Stacey discovered coal 120-130 tons of coal a week on a railway to carry coal from Alluvial tin was won by on Schouten Island in 1809. were being raised from shafts Seymour to a proposed new Chinese prospectors north of The deposits were not sunk near the shore. jetty and loading facilities at Mt Story on Schouten Island commercially exploited until Soon after, the mine was Coles Bay. between 1840 and 1880. 2016 the 1840s when the Garland sublet to Crockett who carried Although never completed, Old embankments and Centenary of Tasmania’s National Parks brothers started mining. on operations for several the bed of the line became the cuttings, alluvial workings on They constructed a years. Entrepreneur Diego basis of the Coles Bay Rd. Chinese Creek, ruins and coal tramway and jetty, but the Bernacchi and partners tried Tin was discovered on the adits are the only visible venture was unprofitable. unsuccessfully to revive Freycinet Peninsula in the remains of mining on the The government mining operations in the 1870s. Parties worked the island. 18 Friday, May 6, 2016 MERE01Z01FC - V1 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Whaling’s stain on Van Diemen’s shore

HE waters around and slaughter in this idyllic Local folklore has it that Tasmania yielded area of pristine, sparkling Hazard swam ashore from the T huge quantities of water and white sand emulat- wreck to Hazards Beach and whale and seal oil to satisfy the ed the practices in other Tas- was rescued by a local, Silas demand for industrial lubri- manian waters. Cole. cant and lighting in 19th cen- Blood and putrid blubber The captain saved his crew, tury Britain. polluted the shore and there which had been left marooned Sealing parties cruised were whaling stations at on the rock, and his name, and Great Oyster Bay, hunting Sleepy Bay, at the northern that of his ship, is etched in down their quarry on offshore and southern ends of Wine- local nomenclature. rocks and islands in the 1800s. glass Bay, Bryans Beach and Shore-based whaling Whaling ships joined them Passage Point on Crocketts severely depleted whale stocks in the mid-1820s and colonists Bay. and the industry moved out to on the East Coast soon realised Large iron trypots reduced sea to chase larger oil-rich the potential of this leviathan the blubber to oil, which was sperm whales. fishery. barrelled for export. However, the canny George Shore parties were estab- Remains of the industry in Meredith claimed land at his lished during the winter to co- the now national park are whaling site in 1841 and, in incide with the migratory path sparse, limited to piles of 1854, a 5.7ha parcel of this of southern right whales as whalebone, a few bricks, stone claim was granted to his son they swam north from Ant- fireplaces and hut foundations. Charles Meredith. arctica. American seafarer Captain This private freehold land Among the entrepreneurial Albert (Richard) “Black” Haz- has since been subdivided businessmen was Swansea set- ard was reported whaling in and is now known as The Fish- tler George Meredith, who es- the Thalia in about 1824 and eries. tablished a whale fishery called again in the Promise. Charles leased a further the Old Fishery at Parsons His return journey ended in 37.7ha to the west of Wineglass Cove in 1824. disaster when the Promise was Bay in 1870 for pastoral and It operated until the mid wrecked on what was to be agricultural purposes. but the 1830s. named Promise Rock, just off land was considered poor and Whaling at Lady Bay, by William Duke, the artist’s depiction of a whale chase off Tasmania’s far south-east coast. Methods of pursuit, capture Hazards Beach. the lease lapsed. Picture: QUEEN VICTORIA MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

Miners and farmers tried their luck Pedder Wilderness Lodge Using fre to Located right in the heart of Tasmania’s with boulders from the Jurassic period, Southwest National Park which is part striking mountains and lush sub- reduce of Tasmania’s World Heritage Area. alpine rainforests with monolithic Recognised as one of the world’s trees ranging from centuries to extraordinary natural wonders by thousands of years old, all the way to bushfre risk the World Heritage Commission, it is the modern man-made Gordon Dam to be protected forever from human ofering one of the world’s top ten intervention. One tree, which now sits adrenaline activities. out the front of the Lodge, was cut down With accommodation for all types of in the 1970’s before this protection was travellers, Pedder Wilderness Lodge in place. The great Huon pine, which ofers a relaxing and warm environment is about the width of a car, has its with a focus on fne Tasmanian food, rings marked all the way back to the wines and produce. With sweeping birth of Christ. views of Lake Pedder and Twelvetrees Our surrounds, from which this Range you couldn’t fnd a more perfect great Huon came; boasts everything place to escape, explore, relax and enjoy from ancient awe-inspiring landscapes our hospitality. The Tasmania Fire Service would like to congratulate The 1840s Schouten Island coal mining jetty. Picture: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE If you’re an adventurous type, the Parks and Wildlife Service on 100 years of Natonal surface deposits during the explore the area and all the walking trails, late 19th and early 20th throw a line and try your luck at landing a Trout, Parks in Tasmania. We gratefully acknowledge the centuries with limited success. kayak Lake Pedder or abseil the 140 metres Gordon Dam. contributon that staf and fre crews of the PWS have Work was centred on Saltwater Creek (north of If you’re just looking to escape made to the ongoing success of the Fuel Reducton Coles Bay) and Middleton the hustle and bustle, Creek (near Bluestone Bay). grab a book and relax in front of an open fre Program, bushfre response and making Tasmanian Chinese tin miners were or pull up a stool at the bar, take in the awe communites safer. among those who worked on inspiring 180 degree views and sample our the peninsula and Schouten eclectic selection of Tasmanian and international Island during the 1880s. single malts and comprehensive wine list. Alluvial tin was won by www.fre.tas.gov.au Chinese prospectors north of Mt Story on Schouten Island between 1840 and 1880. Old embankments and cuttings, alluvial workings on Chinese Creek, ruins and coal adits are the only visible For more information and bookings please call (03) 6280 1166 remains of mining on the www.pedderwildernesslodge.com.au island. V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 19 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE

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The team at Tasmanian Helicopters provides an extensive range of aviation services to their valued customer, Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service. These services include, • Aerial crane operations, such as construction and general maintenance – lifting timber packs, gravel, rock, building materials • Fire Support – fuel reduction fre lighting, water bombing, mapping, reconnaissance • Ferrying Crew and Equipment, including into remote locations • Ongoing services at Cradle Mountain – Overland Track waste transfers, transport of gas bottles, hut maintenance requirements.

Projects and Works Completed include, • Wineglass Bay Visitor Lookout • Windy Ridge Hut • Overland Track B3 Squirrel - performing Fire Construction • Stanley Nut Lookout • Frenchman’s Cap Walking Track • • Arthurs Range Support services • Melaleuca • Hut Construction and Dismantling • various walking bridge installations. Tasmanian Helicopters employ highly skilled Pilots and ofer a range of specialised services. Other services available include, • Powerline Construction, Stringing and Inspection • Aerial Application Services – Spraying, Seeding, Fertiliser Spreading, Frost Protection • Aerial Survey – Eagle Nest, Tree Health • Advanced Training Organisation (nil ab intio) Pilot: Bruce Colwell, last 27 years, B3 Squirrel - Waterfall Valley, We take this opportunity to thank Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service for their custom over the Maintenance Operations and we look forward to continuing our working relationship in the future. B3 Squirrel – Bridge Installation

TASMANIAN HELICOPTERS PTY LTD 8998 Bass Highway, Latrobe 7307 PO Box 398, Devonport 7310 E [email protected] T: +61 364 26 1623 Raising the standard W www.tasmanianhelicopters.com.au F: +61 364 26 2355

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1. Ranger E. Connell at Freycinet National Park. 2. Tenzing Norgay, centre, with Ben McKay MLC and Doug Cashion MHA at Mt Field in 1963. 3. Opening day at the Mt Mawson ski tow in July 1963. 4. An early colour postcard of Wineglass Bay. 5. Group heading to Hartz Mountain lakes in 1895. 6. Ranger C. Craig at , Mt Field. 7. Lake Belcher, Mt Field National Park. 8. Skiers near Lake Dobson, Mt Field National Park, in 1928.

Pictures: TASMANIAN ARCHIVE AND HERITAGE OFFICE 7

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Dallas and staff from Grating Tasmania would like to congratulate Parks and Wildlife on their 100 years of national parks in Tasmania.

Formally As a premium supplier of FRP products to the Tasmanian Parks PERFORATED & EXPANDED METAL COMPANY and Wildlife Service, we have worked together to complete The team at Tasmanian Helicopters provides an extensive range of aviation services to their valued numerous projects including the following: customer, Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service. These services include, • Aerial crane operations, such as • 3 Capes Track construction and general maintenance – lifting timber packs, gravel, rock, building materials • Fire Support – • Black Cliffs situated at Cox Bight on South Coast Track, Walkway and Stairs fuel reduction fre lighting, water bombing, mapping, reconnaissance • Ferrying Crew and Equipment, including • Cradle Mountain Walkways and Helipads into remote locations • Ongoing services at Cradle Mountain – Overland Track waste transfers, transport of gas • Freycinet updated Lookout over Wineglass Bay bottles, hut maintenance requirements. • Macquarie Island walkway and viewing platform for Penguin Colony along with many other applications Projects and Works Completed include, • Wineglass Bay Visitor Lookout • Windy Ridge Hut • Overland Track B3 Squirrel - performing Fire Construction • Stanley Nut Lookout • Frenchman’s Cap Walking Track • Deal Island • Arthurs Range Support services We look forward to working with Parks and Wildlife • Melaleuca • Hut Construction and Dismantling • various walking bridge installations. in the future as they celebrate 100 years of caring and maintaining our beautiful state. Tasmanian Helicopters employ highly skilled Pilots and ofer a range of specialised services. Other services available include, • Powerline Construction, Stringing and Inspection • Aerial Application Services – Spraying, For all your FRP requirements and Seeding, Fertiliser Spreading, Frost Protection • Aerial Survey – Eagle Nest, Tree Health • Advanced Training Hand Rail Systems we are available to Organisation (nil ab intio) assist at Grating Tasmania. Pilot: Bruce Colwell, last 27 years, B3 Squirrel - Waterfall Valley, We take this opportunity to thank Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service for their custom over the 46 Derwent Park Road, Derwent Park Maintenance Operations and we look forward to continuing our working relationship in the future. B3 Squirrel – Bridge Installation Phone 62 722100 TASMANIAN HELICOPTERS PTY LTD 8998 Bass Highway, Latrobe 7307 PO Box 398, Devonport 7310 Mobile 0408 136668 E [email protected] T: +61 364 26 1623 Email: [email protected] Raising the standard W www.tasmanianhelicopters.com.au F: +61 364 26 2355 www.gratingtasmania.com.au

V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 21 THE PEOPLE’S PARKS A MERCURY SPECIAL FEATURE Extreme activities It’s not all bushwalking and waterfalls in our national parks ASMANIA’S nation- athletes complete this gruel- Wilderness being inscribed on al parks are fertile ling event in 12 to 13 hours but to the World Heritage List. T ground for extreme the ultra-fit and tough do it in Webber noted at the time physical challenges with tortu- quicker time, with the record that competitors were “cele- ous mountain tracks, sheer sea of 7 hours 25 minutes set in brating the joy of having cliffs, wild rivers and boggy 1996 by Victorian Andrew protected one of the last great moorland providing ideal con- Kromar. temperate rainforests in the ditions to test the body and The fastest time recorded southern hemisphere, contain- mind. for women was 8 hours 13 min- ing some of the world’s oldest Endurance runners, peak utes in 2013 by Tasmania’s trees and many of its most baggers, rock climbers, canoe- Hanny Alston. endangered animals”. ists, orienteers, sailors, surfers The event kicks off at 6am The Mark Webber Chal- and trekkers seek out remote at Cradle Mountain. Runners lenge is currently in recess and challenging terrain for who don’t make it past the while event officials develop a their extreme activities, leav- halfway point at Pelion Hut by new concept. ing the “mum and dad” bush- noon or past Narcissus by 5pm Ben Lomond and Freycinet walkers, campers and field are required to withdraw. national parks offer thrilling naturalists in their frenzied The Mark Webber Chal- opportunities for beginner and wake. lenge is a five-day multi-disci- supervised abseiling, as well as The 82km Cradle Mountain pline event that combines, challenges for individuals, Run through the Tasmanian running, kayaking, trekking groups and clubs. World Wilderness Heritage and mountain biking. The The sea cliffs of Freycinet Area is restricted to 60 fit and charity fundraiser started in are sublimely scenic, while the agile athletes with a proven 2003 and covers more than awesome “pipes” on Ben track record of mountain mar- 350km in at least four national Lomond offer a more alpine athons. parks: Cradle Mountain-Lake environment. The harshness of the envi- St Clair, Southwest, Freycinet True thrill seekers venture ronment and the possibility of and Mt Field. further afield hauling their snow, even in summer, is well In 2012 the Webber Chal- climbing gear into the South- publicised. lenge coincided with the 30th west National Park and Cradle Abseiling at Freycinet National Park. Picture: NIK REYNOLDS/ROCK CLIMBING TASMANIA Amazingly, the majority of anniversary of the Tasmanian Mountain.

Matthew Chamberlain at Cradle Mt. Over the edge at Freycinet. Abseiling at Ben Lomond. Action from the Mark Webber Challenge. Picture: CRADLE MOUNTAIN RUN Picture: NIK REYNOLDS/ROCK CLIMBING TASMANIA Picture: IAN FERRIER/ROCK CLIMBING TASMANIA

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Proud moment for the Parks and Wildlife Service Falls stamped on our history RUSSELL Falls was immortal- ised on a fourpenny stamp in Extreme activities 1899. It was among a set of pic- torial stamps highlighting the scenic attractions of Tasmania photographed by prominent It’s not all bushwalking and tourism pioneer and field natu- ralist J.W. Beattie. Among other iconic natural waterfalls in our national parks locations included in the series were Spring River at Port Wilderness being inscribed on Davey (later to be incorpor- to the World Heritage List. ated in the Southwest National Webber noted at the time Park and Tasmanian Wilder- that competitors were “cele- ness World Heritage Area), brating the joy of having Lake Marion and Mt Gould protected one of the last great (Cradle Mountain-Lake St temperate rainforests in the Clair National Park) and Tas- southern hemisphere, contain- man Arch (Tasman National ing some of the world’s oldest Park). trees and many of its most The stamps were popular endangered animals”. with collectors at the time and The Mark Webber Chal- still are. Pictorial stamp des- lenge is currently in recess igns had been used before, par- while event officials develop a ticularly in the US, but the new concept. approach was novel within Ben Lomond and Freycinet Australia and different to pre- national parks offer thrilling vious colonial stamp designs. opportunities for beginner and The stamps were larger supervised abseiling, as well as than previous issues and there challenges for individuals, was reportedly some debate groups and clubs. over the absence of an image of The sea cliffs of Freycinet the monarch. are sublimely scenic, while the Other stamps in the series awesome “pipes” on Ben were the Hobart Waterworks, Lomond offer a more alpine Mount Wellington, Dilston environment. Falls and the Hobart water- True thrill seekers venture front. further afield hauling their New rangers to Russell Falls and Cradle climbing gear into the South- Mountain have again featured west National Park and Cradle more recently on stamps Mountain. issued by Australia Post in 2008 and 2012 respectively. work on country Make a movie competition NATURE lovers, photo- QUALIFIED: New Working on Country rangers Shannon Mansell and Tony Burgess, training co-ordinator Iris Todd, rangers Jessie Digney and Cindy graphers and filmmakers are Pitchford, PWS general manager Peter Mooney and TasTAFE divisional manager Maree Gerke. invited to reflect on the signifi- cance of Tasmania’s parks and A PARTNERSHIP program Parks and Wildlife Service Certificate IV and Diploma in tionship and the opportunity at Flinders Island, Tamar, wilderness and enter their between the State and Federal (PWS) general manager Peter Conservation and Land Man- to renew the agreement in Prospect, works in new film competition governments has seen four Mooney said it was fantastic to agement, which are significant 2018. and the Hobart office,” he said. “Tasmania’s Parks — A Place Working on Country Aborigi- see such a positive outcome to professional qualifications. “Increasing our workforce “The support they provided to Connect”. nal rangers gain professional the program both for the indi- “I commend them for their diversity and understanding of through mentoring, opportun- Entries are to be a maximum qualifications in land manage- viduals and the community. efforts, recognising that they Aboriginal heritage on the ities to participate in collabora- of three minutes long and will ment. “We began this program to had to balance work and fam- lands we manage is a priority tive projects, and day-to-day be judged on excellence in The four rangers — Shan- provide vocational education ily commitments while under- and the connections these guidance and encouragement craft and skill, outstanding sto- non Mansell, Cindy Pitchford, and training for Aboriginal taking this professional deve- rangers provide with the Abor- has been instrumental in the rytelling and alignment with Jessie Digney and Tony Bur- people in Tasmania, in order to lopment program.” iginal community are invalua- program’s success.” the values of Tasmania Parks gess — were recognised at a achieve long-term employ- Mr Mooney thanked the ble,” Mr Mooney said. The four rangers gained and Wildlife Service. graduation ceremony includ- ment outcomes,” Mr Mooney Federal Government for its in- “I’d also like to thank the permanent positions with the This is being run in con- ing PWS and TasTAFE staff, said. vestment in the valuable pro- rangers’ PWS colleagues and PWS. The first trainee Aborigi- junction with Breath of Fresh family and friends, in Launces- “It is very satisfying to see gram and said the PWS looked particularly, the field centres nal rangers were appointed in Air Film Festival. Enter by ton last month. these four staff have gained a forward to an ongoing rela- where the rangers were based, 1995. August 1 at www.bofa.com.au.

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V1 - MERE01Z01FC Friday, May 6, 2016 23 CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF NATIONAL PARKS IN TASMANIA

The Tasmanian community is invited to celebrate Tasmanians should be proud of the spectacular the centenary of our national parks and reserves landscapes of our parks and World Heritage Areas during 2016. that are attracting more and more visitors each year. August this year marks 100 years since our state’s With inspiring natural and cultural landscapes, frst national parks, Mount Field and Freycinet, Tasmania’s parks offer health and wellbeing whether were offcially reserved. it’s walking, biking, camping and fshing or simply taking in the scenery. They inspire contemplation and The centenary celebrations have gotten off to an creativity and offer unforgettable experiences with amazing start, with the Discovery Ranger Program family and friends. delivering fun, entertainment and educational activities. Festivities will continue throughout the year Check out the special centenary website at – highlights include experiences among the tall trees www.parks.tas.gov.au/centenary for the calendar and waterfalls at Mount Field and on the stunning of events, centenary snippets and news, and tales beaches and granite ranges of Freycinet in August. from Mount Field and Freycinet.

Images courtesy of Tourism Tasmania and Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Offce libraries.