Celebrate life in tiger country

COMMUNITY groups and businesses in the Upper Derwent Valley are banding together to celebrate the region's links with the Tasmanian tiger. The inaugural Tiger Trail Festival will be held from September 21-23, taking in the vast area from Strathgordon to Plenty, including Maydena, National Park, Westerway, Fentonbury and Ellendale. “There is so much to see, do and experience here, we decided as a group we would like to showcase what we have to offer,” organising committee spokesman Anne Niven said.

Events include an open garden at Hamlet Downs, to "Dusk to Dark" wine sampling at Kinvara Winery, a comedy and quiz night at the Giants Table and Cottages, a market and a bush dance at the Westerway Hall, a specially commissioned play at the Ellendale Hall, featuring two actors from the acclaimed movie The Hunter.  There will be a special price on trips to the Eagles Eyrie courtesy of Forestry Tasmania and walks and Tasmanian Tiger information at Mt Field National Park.

"The Hunter was part of our inspiration; it showcases our beautiful area, and has increased interest not only in the area but in the Tasmanian tiger as well.  There are a couple of venues that are also planning free viewings of  The Hunter over the weekend as well," Ms Niven said.

There festival will include both free and ticketed events, with something for everyone and plenty of entertainment for children and adults alike. Keep up-to-date with the Tassie Tiger Festival on their website at  www.tigertrailfestival.com.au and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012