New eco-friendly rest stop facilities have opened today at Mount Montgomery, providing improved amenities for the many walkers, riders and visitors who enjoy one of the Dial Range’s most popular destinations.
The project was supported by $431,000 in funding from the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program, which helped deliver a new sustainable toilet that uses captured rainwater to function and support a surrounding rain garden. New wash-down and basic repair facilities for riders have been added, along with a boot-wash to improve biosecurity. The picnic area has also been refreshed with new shelters for visitors.
Council has also taken an eco-friendly approach to extending the carpark, increasing capacity to 36 spaces, including two accessible bays, by using recycled concrete crushed into road base and mulching removed trees for reuse in the garden beds.
Mayor Cheryl Fuller said the project responds to the growing number of people visiting the Dial Range. “Mount Montgomery is one of our most popular day walks and riding spots, and these new facilities make it easier to enjoy the area in a way that’s better for visitors and the environment,” Mayor Fuller said. “We’re very grateful for the Australian Government’s continued support for the Dial Range and its importance as a regional visitor destination.”
Federal Member for Braddon, Anne Urquhart said “The Albanese Labor Government is pleased to support upgrades that improve local recreation facilities and help protect Tasmania’s natural environment,“ Ms Urquhart said. “It’s great to see these eco-friendly improvements now open for the community just in time for the summer season. I’ve heard from local walkers and community groups who say the upgrades have made the area even more enjoyable and accessible.”
The Cradle Coast Mountain Bike Club welcomed the new facilities. “The recreational attraction of the Dial Range is huge but outdoor enthusiasts, particularly mountain bike tourists are only just becoming aware of what it offers. This facility will lift its status state-wide and nationally,” Club President Chris Fletcher said.
“The bike wash-down facility reinforces the importance of protecting a diverse and sensitive Tasmanian forest environment, a big drawcard for any mountain biker local or international. It’s a great investment in the expansion of recreation in the Dial Range.”
The upgraded facilities form part of the Dial Range Recreation Management Plan and are now open to the public.