More than 20 proposals are in the mix to become state’s next big walk

The business case supporting a Trans-Tarkine Track proposal is set to be released as the State Government’s decision looms on what Tasmania’s next iconic walk will be.

From left, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary’s Greg Irons, Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania’s Clyde Mansell, environmentalist Bob Brown and head cultural guide for wukalina walks Ben Lord are pushign for a 100km Trans-Tarkine track. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

A SECOND Tarkine attraction is in the mix as the State Government approaches crunch time on its selection of a wilderness hiking proposal to become Tasmania’s next iconic walk.

The Government will invest up to $20 million to deliver the next multi-day, hut-based walk to build on the tourism success of the Overland and Three Capes tracks.

The business case for the Trans Tarkine Track developed by PwC indigenous Consulting will be released tomorrow by the Bob Brown Foundation.

The foundation said it showed the track would bring significant economic and cultural benefits and create 15 equivalent full-time jobs, including four indigenous ranger positions.

When completed, the 100km Trans-Tarkine track would be longer than both the Overland and South Coast tracks and showcase “a breathtaking region of Tasmania that is crying out for a share of the tourism boom”.

The Circular Head Council has also put forward a Tarkine proposal to be considered by the Government.

Called the Tayatea Trail, the walk would be a four-day, three-night experience beginning in the Rapid River Valley near the junction of the Rapid River and the Arthur River and finishing at Mt Bolton.

More than 20 other submissions are also vying for attention including Destination West Coast’s Peaks of the Philosophers trail proposal which would connect walks across the Sedgewick, Lyell, Owen, Huxley, Jukes and Darwin mountains and provide a journey “through a landscape as dramatic as any dreamt up by Tolkien”.