The South Coast Track is located in the Southwest National Park of lutruwita country (Tasmania). Starting deep in the south west World Heritage Area at Melaleuca, accessible by small aircraft, sea or foot and ending at Cockle Creek. The track takes you on 85km of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, coastal plains and pristine beaches, while being treated with an abundance of wildlife.

Myself and four other women flew to Melaleuca, the flight was unreal as the plane flew between mountain peaks such as Federation Peak and the Arthurs Ranges, before circling above the crystal blue waters of Southern Tasmania. We were greeted by volunteer caretakers who gave us weather and camp tips. We started the walk rather blind with minimal knowledge of the track, deliberately, but took the book by John and Monica Chapmans "South Coast Track" to read each night before bed to prepare us for the next day.

The track is muddy, rugged but beautiful, the campsites were perfect with million dollar views, we tackled the Ironbound Ranges with tears and laughter, the New River Lagoon boat crossing was hilarious and wet, South Cape Rivulet bought us down to our underwear, with packs balancing on our heads and fear in our eyes. Along the track we saw Possums, Wallabies, Tasmanian Devils, Spotted Quolls, Common Nose Wombats, rare orange belled parrots, and an abundance of bird and sea life. The weather was unexpected and each element we experienced was in full, we were sunburnt, drenched and wind swept each day. It was perfect.

By Hayley Close

23rd - 29th of March 2020