Thursday 14/03/2024 Quamby Bluff / lartitickitheker – Track Carpark – Quamby Bluff Track – Quamby Bluff
Quamby Bluff Conservation Area, lutruwita / TASMANIA
Palawa Country
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report)
After putting off this walk yesterday we decided to do it regardless of today’s cloud level. When we started it looked more favourable than yesterday.
Max elevation: 1238 m
Total climbing: 538 m
Total descent: -544 m
Average speed: 2.85 km/h
Total time: 04:17:06
The walk starts in farmland adjacent to the road and passes a Buddhist Monastery before gently climbing and entering a tea tree and eucalypt forest. The forest became much mossier as we progressed and the vibrant colours and variety of lichens were quite impressive. Soon we crossed the first of two scree slopes. Progress was fairly slow as proper foot placement was important of course and there were many potential trip hazards! Another section of rainforest followed and then a second steeper section of larger boulders required some scrambling and route planning. We needed to keep our eyes open for trail markers and poles and once we were near the top we followed the trail to the trig point.
Lichen and moss covered myrtle rainforest just after the rock scree
We had good views over the western tiers but views to the ocean were clouded in. We decided to head down after a short break thinking it was not going to clear any time soon.
We retraced our route and arrived back at the van in time for lunch and to get ready for our second bluff of the day! Projection Bluff here we come.
The original inhabitants of this area were the Pallittore Clan.
The local landscape features, geology, scenic highlights, flora, fauna, indigenous history, white history and other walks in the area (Gemini)
Quamby Bluff is a prominent dolerite peak situated within the Quamby Bluff Conservation Area, Tasmania. The conservation area itself lies on the eastern flank of the Great Western Tiers, a mountain range renowned for its dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Landscape Features and Geology
Quamby Bluff is characterised by several key features:
Dolerite peak: The bluff is formed from dolerite, a dark-coloured and fine-grained igneous rock. The peak rises approximately 1,228 metres above sea level, creating a distinctive landmark in the region.
Escarpment and foothills: Steeper slopes characterise the eastern side of the bluff, while the western side transitions into foothills with gentler gradients.
Surrounding landscape: Quamby Bluff is not an isolated peak. It sits amidst a backdrop of rolling hills, valleys, and other mountain ranges within the Great Western Tiers.
The key scenic highlights of Quamby Bluff include:
Panoramic vistas: The summit offers expansive views across the surrounding landscape, encompassing mountains, valleys, farmlands, and distant lakes.
Dramatic dolerite cliffs: The steep dolerite slopes on the eastern side create a visually striking feature, particularly when viewed from a distance.
Diverse ecosystems: The hike to the summit traverses through various vegetation zones, offering a glimpse of the ecological diversity of the region.
Local Flora
The vegetation on and around Quamby Bluff varies with altitude and aspect:
Lower slopes: Eucalypt forests with species such as Black Peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita) or Messmate (Eucalyptus obliqua) are likely present.
Mid-slopes: As the elevation increases, the forest may transition to a mix of myrtle (Nothofagus cunninghamii) and fagus (Nothofagus gunnii) beech forests.
Higher slopes: Subalpine woodlands dominated by Snow Gums (Eucalyptus pauciflora) and alpine shrubs characterise the upper reaches.
Exposed areas: Rocky outcrops and cliff faces may support specialised plant communities adapted to harsh conditions, potentially including lichens and mosses.
Local Fauna
The fauna of Quamby Bluff reflects the habitat types present:
Birds: Raptors such as Wedge-tailed Eagles (Aquila audax) or smaller birds like scrubwrens and thornbills may be sighted.
Mammals: Tasmanian pademelons (Thylogale brunii) or wallabies (Macropus spp.) might inhabit the forested areas.
Reptiles: Snakes such as tiger snakes (Notechis scutulatus) are present in Tasmania, so caution is advised while hiking.
Indigenous History
Information regarding Aboriginal Tasmanian interaction with Quamby Bluff is limited. The traditional custodians of the land are the Palawa people. Evidence suggests Aboriginal Tasmanians frequented the Great Western Tiers for hunting and resource gathering. Further consultation with Tasmanian Aboriginal people is needed for a deeper understanding of their connection to this place.
White History
European exploration of the Great Western Tiers likely began in the early 19th century. Settlers utilised the land for grazing, and timber harvesting likely occurred in the surrounding areas. Quamby Bluff itself became recognised for its walking track, offering a challenging yet rewarding day hike for visitors seeking wilderness experiences.
Other Walks
The Quamby Bluff Conservation Area and broader Great Western Tiers offer a range of walking tracks catering to different abilities and interests. Some options include:
Fairy Glade Track: This track leads to the summit of Quamby Bluff and is a popular choice for its scenic views and diverse ecosystems.
Projection Bluff Walk: A more challenging hike leading to another prominent dolerite peak with spectacular vistas.
Lake Mackenzie Track: A shorter walk to a picturesque lake within the conservation area.
Walls of Jerusalem National Park: For experienced hikers, this national park offers challenging tracks through stunning alpine landscapes with breathtaking views.
Quamby Bluff is a significant landmark within the Quamby Bluff Conservation Area. The challenging hike to the summit rewards visitors with panoramic views and a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the region. The surrounding landscape, rich indigenous history, and white history all contribute to the significance of this location within Tasmania’s Central Highlands.
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