If you're visiting Tasmania's north and you want to see native wildlife in a superb picturesque setting, spend a day or two visiting the Asbestos Range National Park, facing onto the Bass Strait just east of Devonport.

Once an historic farming property called "Springlawn", the area became a National Park in 1976, and today provides important grazing land for many fascinating mammals. The forester kangaroo, Tasmania's only kangaroo, has been reintroduced here and can usually be seen in the early morning and at dusk contentedly grazing around the old paddocks. Bennetts Wallabies are here by the hundreds, along with pademelons and one of Tasmania's most accessible populations of wombats.

In the lagoons just behind the coastal dunes, expect to see plenty of black swans and other attractive birds from a specially constructed hide. In all some 80 bird species have been recorded in the park, including the tawny-crowned honeyeater and the ground parrot.

Asbestos Range is a favourite destination in summer for those who want to stroll along its long clean beaches or have a swim in the waters off Bakers Beach, a two kilometre long expanse of sand, backed by towering dunes.

A magazine survey has listed it as one of Australia's top ten beaches, and one visit here will show you why. Another worthwhile beach, Badgers Beach, is just a short drive or a long walk to the east. There's a viewing platform here and some pleasant short coastal walks.

The camping grounds have recently been upgraded with new toilets and other amenities. Make sure to bring your own water and provisions. The nearest places to purchase supplies are at Port Sorell, Devonport, Latrobe or Beaconsfield. The summer weather is usually mild and sunny, although sudden storms can sweep in occasionally off Bass Strait.

Water skiing is available between 1 November and 30 April, and you can use the boat ramp at Bakers Point anytime. Line fishing from Bakers Beach is also popular. You can ride horses in the Park, but you'll have to bring your own steed and notify the Ranger.

For further information phone (004) 28 6277.

0 of a possible 0 points from 0 votes