Tasmania is the source of much of Australia’s wood and a centre for government-controlled forestry operations. These operations are gradually destroying the 400-year-old trees which comprise the native rainforests of the area. Indeed 87% of the forest has already been destroyed and the Wilderness Society is fighting to protect only the remaining 13%. The most incomprehensible part of this operation is that only about ten per cent of this beautiful hardwood is used for a purpose suited to its potential. The remainder is made into woodchips and sent mainly to Japan to be used as newsprint. Moreover, the operation scarcely makes a profit and is said to be continued principally in the interests of maintaining employment.
The Styx Valley lies some two hours west of Hobart. The Wilderness Society have produced a series of self-drive guide brochures.
