Tarkine

by Ralph Ashton (Editor), W.W.F., W.W.F. Australia

The Tarkine is one of the largest temperate rainforests on Earth, covering an area of 4,500 square kilometers in Tasmania's north-west. This vast expanse is a wilderness wonderland of wild rivers, dramatic coastal heathlands, button grass plains, bare mountains, ancient Huon pines, giant eucalypts, and myrtles and extraordinary horizontal scrub. It is home to rare and endangered birds—like the orange-bellied parrot and the white goshawk—and countless animals such as the eastern pygmy possum. For 30,000 years, until late in the 19th century, the Tarkine was also home to the Tarkiner people—their middens can still be found along the rugged coast. But all this is under threat from human activities which imperil its very existence. Captured by Tasmania's most celebrated photographers, this is the Tarkine rainforest in all its timeless glory. Over a hundred awe-inspiring shots of this truly haunting landscape—from the most delicate and detailed of subjects to sweeping aerial views—each accompanied by brief inspirational passages from leading local writers. Tarkine is a remarkable record of this landscape and a reminder that it is the responsibility of us all to protect this unique place.

Genres: Tasmania

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2005

Reviews

[Merrilee Frankish · Rating 4 out of 5]

A magnificent photo story of the Tarkine in northwestern Tasmania. There are virtually no National Parks, with reserves being the main land tenure. The book helps us appreciate its rare beauty and significance. It compels us to preserve the region in its entirety.