History
In the mid-seventies the Tasmanian community found itself polarised. The proposed construction of the Franklin Dam threatened pristine wilderness in the state’s remote west. The project gained support for its promise to generate jobs in an area that was struggling economically, whilst simultaneously igniting a passionate campaign to preserve sensitive ecological habitat. To this day the Franklin Dam remains one of the most significant environmental crusades in Australia’s history. It was an issue that rocked both state and federal politics and came to define a generation. In 1983, following years of debate, inquiry, a referendum, blockades and elections, a final decision was made that no dam shall be built on the Franklin.
It was a movement that shaped Paul Dimmick’s life. “I clearly remember attending the first ever working meeting of The Wilderness Society,” recalls Paul. “The people I met there inspired me in many different ways and after some intriguing conversations I came away with four goals; to save the Franklin River, to become the first National Parks Ranger to work on the Franklin, to cycle around the world, and to build my own house.” Grinning he adds, “I’m now pleased to say that I’ve ticked off all four of those goals.”
Paul went on to become a proud advocate for the environment. With a skill set spanning parks ranger, electronic technician and commercial artist, this passionate and versatile local has become a quiet champion for a special slice of Tasmania. Nestled within the Huon Valley, Paul and partner Michael have been expanding the protected lands around Mount Misery for the past two decades.
“We purchased a property on the other side of the mountain some 30 years ago,” begins the story. “It triggered many days of exploring and appreciating the natural beauty around us. Michael and I soon began investigating the land covenants system with a view to protecting the area for the future. Landowners may enter into a conservation covenant to manage defined areas for nature conservation and it means that any future owners of the property are obliged to do the same.”
“I still clearly remember a walk over the summit of the mountain back in 2002. We’d stopped on a rocky outcrop and sat enjoying the sound of the waterfall in the rainforest below whilst taking in views of that towering gum tree,” describes Paul, gazing at the majestic eucalypt before him. “It was one of those perfect moments. Just to top things off, an eagle appeared and landed in the tree. Looking back, it was almost as if it was trying to tell us something. We chatted about how good it would be to conserve more of this habitat as sadly we knew the current owners over on this side had plans to clear it.”
Continuing on their walk, and upon reaching the property’s front gate, they were surprised to discover a for sale sign erected on the boundary. “We rang the agent and immediately began to negotiate,” he grins. “As luck would have it, the property had been passed into the hands of liquidators and we were able to secure it for a bargain.”
Realising the conservation value of the land, the pair set about connecting with likeminded people and forming a trust. “We quickly identified a path forward and ended up building about 80% of the tourism village that you see here now within four and a half months. Essentially we wanted the place protected from loggers, for it to pay for itself, for people to be able to stay overnight and enjoy the walking trails, and for it to be a demonstration of sustainable living practices. Michael’s skills in hospitality perfectly complimented mine, and between us we had the experience required to bring Huon Bush Retreats to life.”
Mount Misery Habitat Reserve now encompasses over 14 square kilometres of protected lands, including privately owned and covenanted titles and intervening public reserves. It is a diverse showcase of microhabitats from dry sclerophyll expanses and lush rainforest through to clifftop escarpments and open grasslands. Thanks to Paul and Michael, visitors are welcome to enjoy a varied network of walking trails and to breathe in the freshest of air that shrouds the surrounding Huon Valley. The mountain itself rises to 700m in elevation and is the dominant feature overlooking the townships of Lucaston, Huonville, Ranelagh and Judbury.
Whilst an explanation of its rather dismal name remains somewhat elusive, local suggestions reference the fact that the ‘miserable’ weather generally comes from the southwest and the mountain is adept at blocking its path. As the moist southwest airflow climbs the western slopes it often forms cloud atop the summit. Locals residing in Huonville are said to be provided with a half hour warning of approaching miserable weather.
Whilst Mount Misery is the focus of the reserve, there are a number of walks on site. “Ancient rainforest, towering gums, the waterfall and the labyrinth… they are all popular walks,” says Paul. “There are also over 30 interpretation panels throughout the reserve. We installed these, working closely with the Aboriginal community and we acknowledge this area as the country of the Melukerdee people. We hope through these stories and images that visitors will deepen their connection to Tasmania and their understanding of their place in the world.”
Photo gallery
