Huon River

The Egg Islands, located in this lower tidal zone, serve as a significant ecological area due to their rich wetlands and birdlife.

Flowing through Tasmania’s rugged South West Wilderness, the river traverses a variety of terrains before emptying into the D'Entrecasteaux Channel near Surveyors Bay.

The Huon River supports a unique and diverse ecosystem, with its surrounding wetlands, forests, and waterways providing habitats for a variety of species.

[7] Logging of Huon pine, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, significantly reduced the number of mature trees, though modern conservation efforts have helped protect remaining populations.

Salvaging of naturally fallen Huon pine continues today, allowing timber to be harvested sustainably without cutting down living trees.

[8] The surrounding forests are also home to other valuable species such as eucalyptus, and the river supports populations of native fish, including the rare Australian grayling.

In recent years, waste from salmon hatcheries has raised concerns over water quality and its impact on the river’s health and surrounding habitats.

The timber quickly became renowned for its resistance to rot and vermin, its strength, and its light weight, making it ideal for furniture and boat building.

[11] However, it was recognised early on that Huon pine forests were a finite resource, and it became clear that these slow-growing trees could not be replaced within the lifetime of any generation.

Huon River upstream
Huon River with old pier pilings
Tahune Airwalk
Huonville Bridge
The Swinging Bridge crossing the Huon River