Mountain review reveals love for icon: minister

Thousands of Tasmanians have had their say on the future of kunanyi/Mount Wellington — and here’s what the review into the state’s icon has found, including two key takeaways.

Kunanyi/Mt Wellington Tasmania. Hobart is at it foot, and on clear days the view is magnificent. It is often freezing up on top of the Mountain. Photo – iStock

The need to improve access and increase amenities and tourism activities are among the key messages to come from a review of kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the state government says.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources Eric Abetz said 9,000 Tasmanians had contributed to a review entitled Our Mountain’s Future being conducted by the Department of State Growth.

Mr Abetz said the depth of passion for the mountain was evident from the volume of responses.

“Understanding the community’s vision for Our Mountain’s Future provides our government with a road map to move forward and develop a long-term plan that sets out strategic objectives and actions to guide future improvements,” Mr Abetz said.

Minister for Business Industry and Resources Eric Abetz. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“The consultation shows that demand for accessing the mountain is growing and we need long-term solutions that ease congestion, improve safety and respect the character of the mountain.

“It is encouraging to see so many Tasmanians – of all ages and backgrounds – eager to participate in this important conversation about one of our most iconic natural landmarks.

“The community has made clear that while the natural values of the Park are cherished, people also want better amenities, safer access and thoughtful improvements that reflect the mountain’s growing popularity.

“Tasmanians have also made the case that – while they value the Park’s natural environment – improved visitor amenities and better accessibility are priorities that need to be addressed.

“We’ve heard that people want to see common sense improvements including better shelters, toilets and safer transport options, to help everyone enjoy the mountain safely.

“That includes families, tourists and people with disability.”

Mt Wellington over Hobart, Tasmania.

The management of kunanyi/Mount Wellington is currently subject to the provisions of the Wellington Park Act, which is overseen by the eight-person Wellington Park Management Trust.

The 18,250-hectare park is made up of 14 separate land parcels owned by the Crown, the City of Hobart and Glenorchy City Council.

It is one of the state’s top tourist attractions, welcoming more than 400,000 visitors a year.

The latest in a series of proposals for a cable car up the mountain was rejected by Hobart City Council and the Tasmanian Planning Commission in 2022, despite the Liberal government passing legislation to facilitate its construction.

Council also rejected plans for a zipline down the lower slopes of the mountain in March.

Mr Abetz said many respondents were supportive of improved transport solutions and adventure-based infrastructure, especially in areas that are already developed or less environmentally sensitive.

“We recognise the importance of our natural visitor economy, and the mountain is a critical part of this,” Mr Abetz said.

“We need to preserve what makes the mountain special, while also allowing sensible development that helps more people experience and enjoy,” he said.

The final plan is expected to be released later this year.

Originally published as Mountain review reveals love for icon: minister