City of Launceston Council has reopened the First Basin Track to the public following a bushfire earlier this year.
Around 200m of the track between the Alexandra Suspension Bridge and the Sentinel Lookout was impacted by the fire, which resulted in damage to bridges, elevated walkways, fences and bluestone retaining walls. The Council says fallen trees, landslips and rockfalls also occurred.
It has overseen a range of repairs following the bushfire, including cliff stabilisation, removal of fallen trees, bridge repairs and debris removal.
Additionally, fresh layers of crushed rock have been laid along fire-affected sections of the track.
Acting Mayor, Hugh McKenzie thanked the community for its patience while restoration works took place.
“The repair efforts the City of Launceston has overseen have improved both the safety and accessibility of this much-loved section of the Cataract Gorge Reserve,” Cr McKenzie said.
“We encourage everyone to take care when walking, stay on the designated paths, pay attention to the environment, and take a moment to appreciate the natural regeneration taking place across the reserve.
“The First Basin Track is a really popular part of the Cataract Gorge Reserve, linking the First Basin with the historic Duck Reach Power Station.
“It’s fantastic to see the track open ahead of the busy summer tourist season, and I encourage everyone to get out and make the most of our natural environment over the warmer months.”
