Doing this inappropriate act in this top destination could cost you $4,000 in fines
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The allure of Tasmania's natural wonders is undeniable, and among these, the Disappearing Tarn on Mount Wellington stands out as a gem that captures the imagination.
However, authorities are now issuing a stern warning to those tempted by its pristine waters: swimming in this elusive spot could hit your wallet hard with a $4,000 fine.
The Disappearing Tarn, a name that conjures images of mystery and ephemeral beauty, is a natural phenomenon that occurs only after significant rainfall.
When over 60 millimetres of rain drenches the Mount Wellington region, this hidden treasure reveals itself, much to the delight of hikers and photographers.
Located a 45-minute drive from Hobart, the Tarn is not just a scenic attraction but also a vital part of the local drinking water catchment.
Its waters, a mesmerising deep blue and crystal clear, might seem inviting for a dip, but park officials are urging visitors to resist the temptation.
‘The Disappearing Tarn is located in a Drinking Water Catchment, just 400m from an intake,’ the park management said in a statement.
‘This water receives the bare minimum treatment before it is delivered to the taps of Fern Tree residents.’
'Inappropriate toileting' and swimming are strictly prohibited in the area, and any contamination from swimming or other unsanitary actions could have dire consequences for water quality.
Mount Wellington ranger Ben Masterman has reiterated the importance of respecting the ‘no swimming in the drinking water catchment zone’, which has been in place despite the misleading impressions one might get from social media.
‘We collect drinking water, so we don't want people swimming, for sure,’ he said.
‘You can be on a track, but definitely no swimming. The rules are a little bit relaxed in a way, because people can leave the track anywhere in the park except in restricted areas, which are normally catchment zones.’
‘We are lucky we can walk off the track and visit the Tarn, it's just that we can't swim in it. That's always been the case. I just want everyone to remember, if we look after the mountain, the mountain will look after us and that applies to the environment generally.’
To enforce this, 'No Swimming' signs have been erected around the Tarn, reminding everyone of the hefty fine that awaits those who ignore the rules.
It's worth noting that the tap water from Fern Tree has been recognised as some of the best in the country, even winning Tasmania's top spot for two consecutive years.
The terrain around the Disappearing Tarn is also known to be challenging, with emergency services having to rescue lost adventurers in recent years.
Have you visited any of Tasmania's stunning natural attractions? Share your experiences and tips with us in the comments below!
However, authorities are now issuing a stern warning to those tempted by its pristine waters: swimming in this elusive spot could hit your wallet hard with a $4,000 fine.
The Disappearing Tarn, a name that conjures images of mystery and ephemeral beauty, is a natural phenomenon that occurs only after significant rainfall.
When over 60 millimetres of rain drenches the Mount Wellington region, this hidden treasure reveals itself, much to the delight of hikers and photographers.
Located a 45-minute drive from Hobart, the Tarn is not just a scenic attraction but also a vital part of the local drinking water catchment.
Doing this forbidden act at the Disappearing Tarn could cost you $4,000 in fines. Credit: Tasmania / Facebook
Its waters, a mesmerising deep blue and crystal clear, might seem inviting for a dip, but park officials are urging visitors to resist the temptation.
‘The Disappearing Tarn is located in a Drinking Water Catchment, just 400m from an intake,’ the park management said in a statement.
‘This water receives the bare minimum treatment before it is delivered to the taps of Fern Tree residents.’
'Inappropriate toileting' and swimming are strictly prohibited in the area, and any contamination from swimming or other unsanitary actions could have dire consequences for water quality.
Mount Wellington ranger Ben Masterman has reiterated the importance of respecting the ‘no swimming in the drinking water catchment zone’, which has been in place despite the misleading impressions one might get from social media.
‘We collect drinking water, so we don't want people swimming, for sure,’ he said.
‘You can be on a track, but definitely no swimming. The rules are a little bit relaxed in a way, because people can leave the track anywhere in the park except in restricted areas, which are normally catchment zones.’
‘We are lucky we can walk off the track and visit the Tarn, it's just that we can't swim in it. That's always been the case. I just want everyone to remember, if we look after the mountain, the mountain will look after us and that applies to the environment generally.’
To enforce this, 'No Swimming' signs have been erected around the Tarn, reminding everyone of the hefty fine that awaits those who ignore the rules.
It's worth noting that the tap water from Fern Tree has been recognised as some of the best in the country, even winning Tasmania's top spot for two consecutive years.
The terrain around the Disappearing Tarn is also known to be challenging, with emergency services having to rescue lost adventurers in recent years.
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