International Photo Journalist

               Postcard from: Tasmania’s West Coast

Just came back from Tasmania, travelling from Smithton along the west coast of the island state, following the unsealed Western Explorer through the Tarkine and on to the mining town of Zeehan  (the world class mineral collection at the West Coast Pioneer Museum is well worth a look) and on  to Strahan, tourism hub of the west coast.

Discovered a wild windswept coastline with landscapes that blew me away, ancient cool temperate rainforests, interesting and inspiring people

Had the feeling, this remote region, where traditionally fishing, farming and forestry are the three important areas of employment and livelihood is slowly changing and is starting to embrace tourism.

The infrastructure is improving, notable at Corinna, a tiny hamlet on the northern banks of the Pieman River.

You can stay there in comfortable cabins, enjoy great food and the activities menu is impressive: rainforest and mountains walks, river cruise, kayaking on the mighty Pieman River, excursion along the coast.

Corinna now puts the Tarkine firmly on the map for travelers. As the Tarkine is the latest battle ground between conservation and forestry, success in tourism can change attitudes by creating jobs and income.

I believe the Trakine has the potential to become one of the icons of Tasmania and Australia, en par with Kakadu or Uluru. Got a big surprise in Strahan when I checked into Motel Strahan: uninspired typical motel set up with the potential to depress a wary traveler – until I walked into the room: modern, stylish, very comfortable bed with a fluffy doona (you need that in this part of Tasmania).

The guys obviously focused on the rooms rather the exterior. What a pleasant surprise! Less inviting was the bakery/cafe in Strahan: watery coffee, bad service. If I would own or run this place, I would give the kids working their some proper training. Remember: bad experiences linger and the message will spread.

 

Highlights of the trip:

Woolnorth Tour with guide Helen

Watching the Tasmanian devils having dinner with Geoff

Staying at the Arthur River Riverfront  & Sea Lodge

with views over the river and the wild coast

Discovering the shack villages of Sunset Point, Couta Rocks an Temma

Exploring Lucy Creek with ex-cop Pete (expert in gold panning) near Corinna

The wild coast between Granville Harbour and Pieman Head with guide Flea

 

6 March 2010