Southern Forests Remain Open

Forestry Tasmania has moved to reassure recreational users of the southern forests that access to Glovers Bluff and Reuben's Falls remain open.

General Manager of Corporate Relations and Tourism Ken Jeffreys said erroneous claims by the Huon Valley Environment centre that Forestry Tasmania had locked access to the Bluff and the Falls had deterred some from visiting the area during the school holidays.

"Although widely reported, the claims were wrong. Access to Glovers Bluff and Reubens Falls has not been compromised by Forestry Tasmania since the gates were flung open in January this year.

"This is very unfortunate and we think the HVEC should apologise for the inconvenience these misleading claims caused."

Mr Jeffreys called on the activists to guarantee that they would not impede access to these sites.

"A group from the environment centre are staging another media stunt in the area today, despite being invited last week to meet with the Huon District Forest Manager. The activists have today chosen to lock on to forestry equipment rather than engage in meaningful dialogue.

"The least they can do now is to make sure they do nothing to further inconvenience recreational users in the area."


David Tuck, Corporate Relations 6233 8249
ENDS
16 June 2008