The new platform at the Gloucester Tree. Photo - DBCA
The iconic Gloucester Tree has reopened following a major Cook Government investment, giving visitors the chance to once again experience one of Western Australia's most famous nature-based tourism attractions.
Adventurous climbers can now ascend to a new lookout that’s as high as a 12-storey building to take in views of the surrounding karri forest within Gloucester National Park.
The new platform’s eye-catching design was developed by an in-house team at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, with fabrication and installation led by local company Precision Contracting Pty Ltd.
The innovative design wraps around the trunk while minimising impacts on the living tree, allowing visitors to experience the canopy while helping protect the iconic karri into the future.
The Cook Government's $3 million investment in the Gloucester and Bicentennial trees is helping secure the future of two of Western Australia's most iconic visitor attractions, supporting local tourism businesses, regional jobs and the South West economy.
Works will now shift to the Bicentennial Tree, which will temporarily close to allow for the completion of upgrades including a new canopy lookout.
Work completed
- removal of previous Gloucester Tree and Bicentennial Tree structures
- tree health inspections and retrenchment pruning on Gloucester and Bicentennial Tree
- new Gloucester Tree platform design completed
- new Gloucester Tree construction contract awarded
- new Gloucester Tree platform completed
Work underway
- Gloucester Tree and platform fabrication
- Bicentennial Tree design development