Alderman Philip Cocker today announced a far reaching plan to draw people to the Wild Mountain on their doorstep.
‘Here we have a truly wild, basically unspoilt area in Mount Wellington linked to the Wilderness of Tasmania. At the moment access is difficult and based on the car,’ Alderman Cocker said.
‘What I propose is a comprehensive public transport service to all areas of the mountain. What we need is a transportation service that allows people to access the mountain, to walk its tracks and ride the trails and camp in special spots in ways that maximise its potential and allow people to reconnect to the environment, but protect the mountains values.
‘Mountain Wellington is one of Hobart’s major assets and yet we underutilise its natural values. What I am proposing is a free transport service that takes people across the breadth of the mountain to walk the trails, and ride bikes where appropriate, and provides a collection point at the end of the walk.
‘This would be an awesome boon for locals and tourists alike to experience our special mountain and enjoy its facilities naturally, knowing that at the end of their experience they can catch reliable transport back to the city.
‘To be able to ride the Snowy Range track and be dropped off and picked up at each end would be one of the great bike rides.
‘This plan would complement the natural values of the mountain and encourage all to experience this special wild place. We would be supporting all Tasmanians, whether rich or poor, to enjoy the experiences of this area without requiring major developments or community battles. This project could unite the community in recognising and experiencing the wild values of the Mountain.
Alderman Cocker concluded, ‘It would be also a valuable step in reconnecting our children with natural values and promoting exercise on our doorstep in a very special environment. I will be lobbying the Minister for Minister for Sustainable Transport Mr McKim and looking for discussions with Metro’.
Authorised by Suzanne Cass, 208 Elizabeth Street, Hobart.
