Latest track closures update - Tuesday 29 January 4.30pm

29/01/2019

Access to some national parks and reserve areas is being managed for public safety by PWS due to the current fire situation. 

Due to the ongoing threat of fires in a number of areas around the state, PWS advises the following:  

Southwest National Park – South Coast Track 

Due to the current fire situation, restrictions are in place on new walkers embarking on the South Coast Track until further notice.

Access to the track at Cockle Creek is currently restricted due to a road closure at Huonville, and access via Melaleuca is restricted until the current fire emergency has passed.

Walkers currently on the track are under no immediate threat and weather and fire conditions will continue to be monitored.  It is intended that walkers will be able to walk out, however plans are in place to relocate walkers should conditions change. A review and assessment will be undertaken on Friday 1 February.

Freycinet National Park 

A number of walking tracks are being temporarily closed today (Tuesday 29 January) from 3pm.   

The closure is now extended until midnight Wednesday 30 January due to the risk of walkers becoming trapped in the case of wildfire.

These include: 

 Wineglass Bay lookout & Wineglass beach 

 Mt Amos 

 Hazards beach & peninsula walking tracks 

 Isthmus Walking track 

 South Friendly 4WD track 

 Hazards Traverse

With the large amount of fires burning and the potential for spotting and new starts due to the weather forecast, PWS are asking people NOT to venture into remote areas. 

As fires under hot, dry and windy conditions can travel very fast, it’s important for visitors to stay informed in case conditions change. 

What to do

 · stay informed in case conditions change,

 · check in at visitor centres for the latest information,

 · heed advice at track heads,

 · follow directions of PWS staff at national parks and reserves; and

 · monitor the following websites www.parks.tas.gov.au/closures 

 www.fire.tas.gov.au 

 www.police.tas.gov.au/community-alerts/ 

 www.alert.tas.gov.au 

 · listen to ABC local radio