Conservation groups release new vision for Tasman Coastal Trails

SEVEN Tasmanian conservation groups have banded together to release an alternative vision to the contentious Three Capes Track project.

Seven conservation groups have banded together to promote an alternative vision to the Th

A COASTAL trails tourism plan for the Tasman Peninsula would cost less, include beaches and have more benefits for the local economy than the Three Capes project, say conservation groups.

Former trail builder and parks employee Ted Mead has led the development of the new plan, partly modelled on the Great Ocean Walk in Victoria.

Seven conservation groups are backing the proposal, which is an alternative to the contentious Three Capes Walk on the peninsula.

It features a tourist information and interpretation centre at Eaglehawk Neck that would include information on accommodation and attractions, and more promotion of the Tasman National Park.

“There is enormous potential for tourism and most of the great features are readily accessible,’’ Mr Mead said today.

The Tasman Coastals Trails initiative would have campsites and allow people to take single walks of a day or less, or do the whole trip in three of four days.

Mr Mead, from Keep the Capes Wild, said it included stunning beaches in the area.

“The problem with Three Capes is that it doesn’t go to the beaches. How can you promote a coastal walk that doesn’t include beaches?” Mr Mead said.

He said their projections showed the Three Capes would cost $62 million by 2016.

Originally it was going to cost $12 million and be finished by 2013.

The Tasman Coastal Trails plan would cost less than $20 million.

“At the moment there’s no sign that you’re anywhere near a national park. We have this magnificent national park and superlative natural features that nobody knows about,’’ Mr Mead said.

The initiative is supported by Environment Tasmania, Keep the Capes Wild Group, Peninsula Environment Network, Tasmanian National Parks Association, Tasmanian Conservation Trust and The Wilderness Society.

For further detail, visit the Tasmanian National Parks Association website.