Starting from the Tamar Island Wetlands Centre just off the West Tamar Highway, Riverside, this walk leads to the Tamar River Conservation Area via the Tamar Island Walkway. A long boardwalk leads out to the island, taking you right through the wetland between phragmites australis reeds and over the river itself. Along the way, you’re likely to see numerous different species of water birds, as well as frogs, dragonflies and lizards. A short side track leads to a bird hide, where you can quietly observe a variety of birds on the lagoon, including pelicans, swans, cormorants and great egrets. If you look carefully, you can see the wreck of the 'Platypus' that was sunk in the channel in order to improve the water flow. The well-constructed boardwalk is open in daylight all year long and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. On Tamar Island, there are picnic tables, barbeques and toilet facilities as well as a jetty giving access to the island via boat. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
Before you start any bushwalk ensure you;
• Tell someone you trust where you are going and what to do if you are overdue
• Have adequate equipment, supplies, skills & knowledge for the whole journey
• Consider the impact of weather forecasts, park/track closures & fire dangers
• Can respond to emergencies & call for help at any point
• Are healthy and fit enough for this journey
If not, change plans and stay safe. It is okay to delay and ask people for help.