The iconic Gloucester Tree in WA’s Pemberton region has reopened again … after being closed for three years.
The State Government says visitors can now ascend to a new lookout that is as high as a 12-storey building to take in views of the surrounding karri forest within Gloucester National Park.
Visitors were previously free to climb 61 metres into the forest canopy without a harness or supervision, but the height to which tourists can climb has been reduced to 37 metres.
The new platform wraps around the trunk while minimising impacts on the living tree, allowing visitors to experience the canopy while helping protect the iconic karri into the future.
The new platform at the Gloucester Tree. PIC: DBCA
Works will now shift to the Bicentennial Tree, which will temporarily close to allow for the completion of upgrades including a new canopy lookout.
The WA Government says its $3 million investment in the Gloucester and Bicentennial trees is helping secure the future of two of the state’s most iconic visitor attractions, supporting local tourism businesses, regional jobs, and the South West economy.
“The Gloucester Tree is one of Western Australia’s most iconic visitor experiences, and this investment ensures people can continue climbing into the karri canopy for generations to come,” said Environment Minister, Matthew Swinbourn. “I want to thank the local community, tourism operators, and businesses for their patience while these important works were completed … it’s fantastic to welcome visitors back to this unique attraction.”
Tourism Minister, Reece Whitby, said nature-based tourism was one of Western Australia’s greatest strengths.
“Investments like this encourage more people to visit the South West, stay longer, and support local accommodation providers, cafes, wineries, and tour operators,” he said. “The reopened Gloucester Tree is another compelling reason to explore the Southern Forests, alongside its spectacular forests, world-class food and wine, and outstanding outdoor experiences.”
WIN VOLTX LiFePO4 BATTERY SYSTEMS
Grey Nomad members are being given the chance to win one of two fantastic VoltX LiFePO4 Battery systems, with a combined value of nearly $2,500.
With travellers increasingly spending more time off-grid, having a reliable and adequate power source is more important than ever … and these two products will certainly offer adventurers peace of mind on that front.
Click here to learn more about the competition.
I do understand fortifying it to increase safety. I think the viewing platform is an excellent idea but reducing the height… i think the allure of climbing it, the risk.. may deter some thrill seekers as it’s no longer such a ‘feat’ to have climbed it. (No harness etc…) especially in this age of click-bait socials.
I climbed it years ago. Chased my then 7 year old son to the top. He won. Don’t think I’ll try the new version. I’m happy with the memories I have of a great adventure with a bit of a thrill.
I started to climb it some years ago just before it closed for repairs. Unfortunately being the chicken I am I did not get far before thinking “get down you old fool” so did get to see the view. I am still blown away that they allow people to climb it unsupervised in this day and age of litigation ( eg packet of peanuts warning may contain nuts). I did ask the gatekeeper if they have ever had any accidents or rescues he advised only one in his time there of a few years . Someone made it up but could not come down.
I wonder now if they will decide they can charge people to climb.
We climbed both several years ago and enjoyed the challenge and the thrill of it as well as the view from the top however was surprised that you were able to do it with all the safety requirements these days. The upgrade was probably needed but it’s disappointing the height has been reduced. Probably wouldn’t do it again as it wouldn’t be as special as the first time.
I climbed all three trees in the area back in 2018. I was 70 years old at the time. Having just retired as a builder at the time, I found it easy enough. But there were quite a few youngsters there who climbed up a few metres and retreated back down. I must admit, it can be daunting if you’re not used to heights. The wife wouldn’t do it.
I climbed both trees a few years ago, which was great, but would not do it again, as i’m 83.
My daughter and I climbed the Gloucesster Tree in 2004. I was 55 with lots of encourement from my daughter I made it to the top. The only safety tips at the time was not to climb it with thongs or to wear a back pack. The only stuff stopping you from falling was chicken wire surrounding some of the climbing pegs. The view from the top was spectacular and three days of sore leg muscles was worth the climb & excillerating.