A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through a Tasmanian rainforest has reopened following upgrades designed to honour a pioneering disability rights advocate.
The Goblin Forest Walk – a 400-metre circuit in the Blue Tier area – now features improved decking, a new bridge and passing bays to make the track easier for wheelchair users to navigate.
The walk was originally dedicated in 1994 to Clarence Strochnetter, who used a wheelchair and became a prominent advocate for people with disabilities.
Parks Minister Nick Duigan said the upgrades recognised Strochnetter’s contribution to the community.
“Improvements to accessibility have been completed, with the walk including passing bays and the installation of a new decking system to improve wheelchair accessibility,” he said.
Mr Strochnetter was an active member of the Disabled People International Association, serving as both secretary and chairman.
He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1979.
“The walk was dedicated to Clarence in 1994 for his important work raising awareness for people with disabilities,” Duigan said.
“The interpretation remaining on the track is in his memory.”
The Goblin Forest Walk takes visitors through a regenerating rainforest recovering from historic tin mining.
Interpretive panels along the route share local stories.
“The Goblin Forest Walk is a 400 metre circuit and one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks,” Duigan said.
“It’s fantastic it has now reopened for visitors to enjoy.”
The Grade 1 walk requires no bushwalking experience and features flat, even surfaces throughout.
Visitors are reminded that weather in the area can change quickly and appropriate clothing is essential.
