A visit to the far North west would not
be complete without a trip through the forest reserves in and around the
South Arthur Forests - The Tarkine Drive. From Smithton on the far
North West there are two main options for continuing further. The Bass
Highway continues on through Dismal Swamp Blackwood reserve to Marrawah
and the Mouth of the Arthur River. The road south from Smithton heads towards the
Arthur River at the Kanunnah Bridge. 20 kilometres from Smithton the
road takes a left turn just past Roger River to Trowutta. The road
continues on in a 60 kilometre loop and returns to the main road at Kanunnah Bridge at the Arthur River. There are some pleasant short
walks along the way.
The forestry industry comes under close
scrutiny as a result of it's "trash and cash" approach to forestry.
However, The South Arthur Forests are a fine example of the preservation
of the natural environment blending in with timber harvesting.
The Tayatea Bridge that was washed away
in August 2007 has now been replaced. The ageing Rapid River bridge has
also been replaced allowing the loop drive again. Beautiful short walks
in the area. |