Henty Dunes

Just a quick one, Henty Dunes are a series of 30m sand dunes that are easily accissible just off Zeehan-Strahan Rd, about 12-15km north of Strahan. This stretch of road is surrounded by managed Pine forests and there is a left turn onto a short dirt track that takes you to a small turning and parking area. From here you can see a samll hut that has some information about the dunes and local area.

There is a 5km (approx 2 hour walk) across the dunes to the beach and back but a lot of fun can be found much closer, for those seeking a free adrenaline high. Whilst the sandboarding areas might be tricky to access for very small children, it would be possible for 5-6 year olds to access the main slopes with some help. We found that there were lots of old 'for sale' signs left in the information hut for use when sandboarding, otherwise the real thing can be purchased or hired from a few convenience shops Strahan.

From the hut, basically any of the routes takes you to the dunes, at which point you'll have to slog up a steep hill (where the small kids might find it tricky), but after that you should be okay. At the top you reach a plateau which is a nice open area of flat sand to have a picnic. Winds can whip up, so I'd advise putting your backs to the beach if it gets windy. The scenery from here is excellent and there is a lot of exploring to be done.

Point to note: There are no signs or designated tracks in the dunes and it would be easy to lose yourself if you're not concentrating. If you take a left turn just after arriving up onto the plateau, there is 'the main slope'. But other more 'infant friendly' slopes can be found nearby if they want to have a quick go.

The slope is long, seems high and adults do pick up speed, but bear in mind that the sand is soft and you can 'bail out' at any time. This said, you will sacrifice your comfort as you're likely to get a face, and butt full of sand if you have a big spill. Basically, put your board down, stand with legs either side, sit down, legs up onto the board and hold onto the sides. You should rocket down the slope, lean to 'steer' although steering is very arbitrary! At the bottom, climb diagonally up the hill for a longer but shallower climb back up, or just go for it and climb up a steeper, shorter section in order to reset and go again. It is tiring work!

At the very end, when you are worn out, the 'main slope' has a quick exit that can help to avoid having to climb up the slope again. If you look immediately to the left hand side at the bottom of the slope, there is a mildly beaten track that routes you through the bush (on the relative flat) and circles back around to the car park. Do leave the signs for someone else!