Heemskirk Range

Heemskirk Range
Highest point
Peak	Mount Agnew
Elevation	848 m (2,782 ft)[1] AHD
Coordinates	41°50′30″S 145°14′0″E[1]
Geography
Heemskirk Range Location in Tasmania
Country	Australia
State	Tasmania
Region	Western Tasmania
Range coordinates	41°50′30″S 145°14′0″E[1]
Parent range	West Coast Range
Geology
Rock age	Cambrian
Rock type	Granite

The Heemskirk Range is a mountain range located in the Western region of Tasmania, Australia. The main peak of the range is Mount Agnew, which reaches an elevation of 848 metres (2,782 ft) above sea level. The range is named after the Heemskerk, one of the ships used by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman during his voyage to Tasmania in 1642.

The Heemskirk Range lies near the mining towns of Zeehan and Trial Harbour, and the surrounding area has been explored for various minerals, including tin and copper. While several mining operations have been conducted in the area, no major long-term mining projects were established.^[2]

Features

The Heemskirk Range features steep, rugged terrain, characteristic of the West Coast Range. The area surrounding the range is largely undeveloped and remote, making it a destination for experienced bushwalkers and hikers.^[3]

The range is known for its rich biodiversity and includes several rare plant species, making it an area of interest for conservationists.^[4]

Mountain bike trails

The Heemskirk Range became a significant destination for mountain biking with the official opening of the Heemskirk Mountain Bike Trail network in 2022. Spanning approximately 35 kilometres (22 mi), the purpose-built trails cater to a variety of skill levels and wind through the rugged terrain of the range, offering riders a mix of challenging descents, scenic views, and access to Tasmania's remote wilderness.^[5]

The development of the trail network was supported by the West Coast Council and state government, as part of efforts to diversify the region's economy, which has historically relied on mining. The trail system has since attracted domestic and international mountain bikers, contributing to the growing adventure tourism industry on Tasmania's West Coast.^[6]

The trails have been designed to integrate with the natural landscape, allowing riders to experience the unique flora and fauna of the region. Facilities such as trailheads, car parks, and information kiosks provide support for visitors, ensuring the area is accessible for riders of all levels.^[7][8]

See also

• List of highest mountains of Tasmania
• West Coast Range (Tasmania)
• Zeehan, Tasmania

References

1. "Mount Heemskirk (TAS)". Gazetteer of Australia online. Geoscience Australia, Australian Government.
2. Whitham, Charles (1924). "Western Tasmania: A Land of Riches and Beauty". Government Printer. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
3. Heemskirk (Map) (3 ed.). Tasmap. 2018. Sheet 3841.
4. "Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area". Parks Tasmania. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
5. "Heemskirk Range trails for West Coast Tasmania". Flow Mountain Bike. 17 November 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
6. "West Coast Tasmania Heemskirk Mountain Bike Trail Network". ABC News. 27 September 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
7. "Heemskirk MTB Trails". Discover Tasmania. 27 June 2022. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
8. "Heemskirk MTB Trails Design Plan" (PDF). West Coast Council. Retrieved 26 October 2024.

Sources

• Blainey, Geoffrey (2000). The Peaks of Lyell (6th ed.). Hobart: St. David's Park Publishing. ISBN 0-7246-2265-9.
• Whitham, Charles (1924). Western Tasmania: A Land of Riches and Beauty (3rd ed.). Government Printer.