Deadly walk framed as a 'step count' boost in Tourism Australia post
Tourism Australia's recent Instagram post promoting the Western Arthur Range Traverse has raised concerns over the portrayal of dangerous hiking trails. The post encouraged viewers to boost their 'daily step count' without adequately addressing the risks associated with this challenging trek. Following backlash, the post was updated, but questions about safety messaging remain unanswered.
- ▪The Western Arthur Range Traverse is a Grade 5 rated bushwalk, indicating high difficulty.
- ▪Tourism Australia's post failed to mention the risks, leading to criticism from experienced bushwalkers.
- ▪The track has been associated with fatalities and numerous rescues due to its challenging conditions.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Tourism Australia Instagram post belies danger of Western Arthur Range TraverseBy Crystal McKayTopic:Social MediaSun 24 May 2026 at 8:07amSun 24 May 2026 at 8:07amSun 24 May 2026 at 8:07amThe Western Arthur Range Traverse has a Grade 5 rating, the highest difficulty rating. (Supplied: Charles Chadwick)In short:A Tourism Australia social media post has promoted one of Tasmania's most challenging bushwalks without disclosing its risks, drawing concern about how dangerous tracks are being presented online.Bushwalkers say polished travel content can downplay the realities of remote wilderness hikes, potentially misleading or endangering less experienced walkers.What's next?The post's caption has since been updated, but Tourism Australia did not directly address questions about safety…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).