Selfish visitors have been criticised for swimming in a natural pool of pristine water that locals use for drinking.
The aptly named Disappearing Tarn is situated along the slopes of Mount Wellington in the Hobart hinterland, a 47-minute drive southwest of the Tasmanian city centre.
The elusive natural phenomenon only fills up briefly after a downpour of more than 60 mm over several consecutive days.
Travelers have the disappearing pool on their bucket lists after the destination went viral on Instagram for its crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by rocks and towering Tasmanian eucalyptus trees.
Although it could be a very expensive dip, as swimming is strictly prohibited and swimmers risk a $4,000 fine.
Wellington Park management said in a statement: “We don’t put our fingers in your drinks. Why would you swim in ours?”
‘The Disappearing Tarn is located on a drinking water catchment, just 400 metres from a water intake.
‘This water receives minimal treatment before reaching the taps of Fern Tree residents.’
Swimming in Tasmania’s stunning Disappearing Tarn is strictly prohibited as it is in a water catchment area, and swimmers risk a $4,000 fine.
The park administration also stated that “inappropriate bathroom use” is prohibited.
“Please respect this important water source,” park management said, adding that swimmers also risk hypothermia from the inviting but icy water.
Mount Wellington ranger Ben Masterman said: ABC Radio Hobart “We collect drinking water, so we don’t want people to bathe, for sure.”
He said the rules are a little more relaxed as visitors to Disappearing Tarn are allowed off the track in the park apart from restricted areas, which are normally catchment areas.
“I just want everyone to remember that if we take care of the mountain, the mountain will take care of us and that goes for the environment in general,” Masterman said.
There are “No Swimming” signs in the area warning travelers and hikers to stay out of the water.
Swimming in the disappearing lakes risks ruining the quality of local drinking water.
Fern Tree tap water was named after him The best of Tasmania for two consecutive years and is among the best in Australia.
Swimmers in Tasmania’s Disappearing Tarn not only risk a huge fine, but also hypothermia from the icy water.
The news is spreading like wildfire among Tasmanian locals as rain has filled the Disappearing Tarn, however many have been disappointed to discover the water has disappeared before they arrived.
Those lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Tarn in full blast flood social media with stunning images of this vibrant pool.
The Disappearing Tarn is not easy to find as it is off the beaten track and unmarked, but many have shared how they located the magical lake.
Heavy rain from the Tarn can also cause flooding and road closures, so travellers are advised to check local warnings before setting off.
