The book is the first holistic historical sketch of the area known as the Tarkine. While seemingly a wild place, it is in fact an area with rich historical traditions including mining, forestry, fishing and recreation. The Tarkine is littered with the evidence of European activity that adds a new layer to thousands of years of Aboriginal settlement.

"A Peopled Frontier: The European Heritage of the Tarkine Area" will become the standard text on the European history of the area and makes a significant contribution towards a full understanding of north-west Tasmania.

It is particularly relevant to the modern representation of the Tarkine, which is presented as an untouched wilderness.

The 168-page book was researched and written by Tasmanian historian Dr Nic Haygarth*. It was commissioned by Circular Head Council and funded by both Circular Head Council and Waratah-Wynyard Council.

"The publication of this book represents an auspicious moment in Tarkine politics," said Circular Head Mayor, Daryl Quilliam.

"It will both inform and alter the debate."

 

COPY ENDS

• For further information contact Circular Head Mayor Mr Daryl Quilliam on 0408 543 927.

 

- For book distribution information contact Circular Head Council -

 

* Dr Nic Haygarth is an historian with a particular interest in the Tasmanian highlands. In 2003 he completed a PhD in History at the University of Tasmania. Major works include A View to Cradle: a History of Tasmania's Forth River High Country (1998), Baron Bischoff: Philosopher Smith and the Birth of Tasmanian Mining (2004) and The Wild Ride: Revolutions Which Shaped Tasmanian Black-and-White Wilderness Photography (2008).

 

 

Authorised for general media distribution by Greg Winton, General Manager, Circular Head Council on Wednesday 18 March 2009.

Office:     33 Goldie Street, Smithton, TAS 7330 Postal Address:     PO Box 348 Smithton, TAS 7330 Telephone:    (03) 6452 4800 Facsimile:   (03) 6452 4861 E-mail   council@circularhead.tas.gov.au