The Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemen’s Association (TMCA) was formed in 1986 by representatives of the families who have links with the Mersey high country. The high country is the area near the source of the Mersey River in Northern Tasmania, and is situated along the mid-north boundary of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park.
Since 1888, the area has traditionally been used as summer grazing runs by families who would drive their cattle and sheep to the mountain pastures at the beginning of summer, and drive them back to their low land farms in autumn. Possums and wallabies were hunted by members of these families during the winter in an effort to add to their incomes.
At the time of the formation of the TMCA, there was increasing political pressure to acquire this land for World Heritage listing and to drive the families out of the high country, so the TMCA was to be the voice for the high country cattlemen and a means of protecting their high country heritage and traditions.
Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemen’sToday the TMCA is still active in the high country, being caretaker of Allison’s Hut, responsible for its maintenance and upkeep. Allison’s Hut was used by the snarers and trappers of the high country and is one of several huts which are scattered throughout the Central Plateau area.
Members of the TMCA guide bushwalks and lead trail rides in the high country, and several ‘fun days’ are organised throughout the year to pass on traditional stockman’s skills, including whip cracking and stockhorse activities. Members also maintain part of the Tasmanian Trail, which stretches from Devonport in the North of Tasmania, to Dover, in the far South, and is used by bushwalkers, cyclists and horse riders.
If you are keen to be a part of all the action, consider joining us as a member. If you are willing and able to contribute, we would love you to think about becoming a committee member or sponsor.
