World Party Hobart: 25 February 2012

World Party Hobart is a free, not-for-profit event designed to celebrate the diversity of the Tasmanian multicultural community.

World Party Hobart: celebrating the Tasmanian multicultural community (Photo by Roger Findlay)

Festivities will include a free concert and food fair held at Princes Wharf on Saturday 25 February 2012.  World Party Hobart starts at 2pm and everyone is welcome.

Of course!

For details of performers, see the World Party Hobart poster, provided
by Mary-Anne Evans from the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

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Map: World Party Hobart, Princes Wharf…

Cataract Gorge.  There’s absolutely no escaping the fact that “The Gorge” is one of the most loved Tasmanian attractions.  Locals and tourists to the island state all rave about it.  But why?  What makes it so popular?  We take a closer look and offer some insight into that popularity.

Riley gets a good view of the suspension bridge from the Cataract Gorge Chairlift

Cataract Gorge: The Basin Chairlift

Firstly, the Cataract Gorge is home to the Basin Chairlift.  Since 1972, the 450-metre ride has been gently transporting people from one side of the Reserve to the other.  And as Harry and his buddy demonstrate, catching the chairlift is child’s play!

Ready and waiting for a turn on the Cataract Gorge Chairlift

Better than walking! Fasten your seat belts and take the chairlift across The Gorge

Sit back and relax as the chairlift carries you over the Cataract Gorge

The views from the chairlift are always spectacular, and the ride is smooth enough to take photos.  But at certain times, when northern Tasmania is receiving heavy rainfall, the river system floods and the waters raging through the Cataract Gorge provide a real show.

The South Esk River floods from the Cataract Gorge to the Tamar River, Launceston

Climbing, Cruising and Walking in The Cataract Gorge

While the Basin Chairlift provides enough adrenalin for many people, there’s always some that want more.  Rock climbers for instance, who scramble up and down the face of the cliff.  The photo collage below shows the climber on the left; his location is circled on the right hand side.  Scary stuff!!

This rock climber gets a different view of the Cataract Gorge in Launceston

Kings Bridge is an iconic landmark in Launceston and marks the start of the walking trail into the Reserve from the city centre.  We cruised underneath the bridge on our Cataract Gorge Cruise with Tamar River Cruises and the construction is amazing.

Kings Bridge, an iconic landmark in Launceston Tasmania

Walking into the Cataract Gorge possibly provides the best experience of all.  The Reserve is very close to the centre of Launceston, and the track is straight forward in terms of access and makes for quite an easy stroll.

The path follows the edge of the river, passing the gatekeeper’s cottage (another building often photographed for tourism brochures).  The cottage is now leased out by the council to artists working on projects in the region.

And why wouldn’t artists be drawn to the area with so much natural beauty right on the doorstep?  No matter what mode of transport you use to enjoy it, the Cataract Gorge is definitely a must-do experience in Tasmania.

Kings Bridge Gorge Cottage, now used for a Launceston Artists in Residence program

Thanks to Jo Kuchel for providing some of the photos for this article.
See her guest article about Sheffield in the state’s north west, too.

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Map: Cataract Gorge, Launceston Tasmania…

Oatlands Handmade is a little shop in, well… Oatlands!  Okay so that bit is obvious, but what you might not realise is just how much Rowena has packed into her gorgeous heritage building.

Oatlands Handmade, part of the charming Heritage Highway township

Oatlands Handmade: Hunting for Treasure

We went to Oatlands in the midlands of Tasmania with some friends.  They were on the hunt for antiques, and we mapped out a Sunday drive from Hobart via Sorell, Richmond, and Ross.  While they searched for treasures in Oatlands, we joined a tour of Callington Mill.

Visit Oatlands Handmade and the Callington Mill across the road

Oatlands Handmade is directly opposite the Mill Complex.  You can’t miss the cheery sign and the duo of concrete sheep at the door.  But what really caught my eye was the Tassie Devil offering a welcome to customers.  Rowena stocks the Tasmanian Softies and says they’re popular with young tourists looking to spend their holiday pocket money.

Handmade Tassie Devils by Tasmanian Softies are available in Oatlands

Once inside Oatlands Handmade, you’re in for a real treat.  The building itself is wonderful, and houses work produced by Tasmanian makers and designers.  Gifts and homewares; clothing and jewellery; fudge and art all take their place arranged in several rooms.

Unique fashion pieces are modelled at Oatlands Handmade in Tasmania

Clearly passionate about promoting her store as a retail avenue for only Tasmanian-made art and craft, Rowena is a bubbly and energetic personality.  Having always dreamed of starting a business like Oatlands Handmade, when Ryder Cottage came on the market, all the stars aligned to make it happen.

Gourmet jams and preserves, also locally made, available at Oatlands Handmade

Over 40 local artisans currently sell their work through Oatlands Handmade.  Rowena is only interested in showcasing top quality products, but she’s somehow managed to collect a diverse and unique range of goods.

Interesting, locally-made and hanging from every available space at Oatlands Handmade!

The jewellery on display is exquisite; I particularly liked the sterling silver Chain Maille Jewellery.  Okay, so that’s intended as a blatant hint (because the Casaveen Knitwear that was supposed to be under the Christmas tree didn’t ever appear).

Jewellery is made by several talented and creative Tasmanian makers

Another thing that caught my eye (being an avid reader)… the bookmarks from No More Dog Ears.  At just a tad under $20; they make a perfect gift without costing a fortune.  Just like the Tassie Devils and the handmade jams and chutneys, a decent souvenir to take away from a Tasmanian holiday.

Oatlands Handmade: No More Dog Ears - Ribbon Bookmarks & Gifts

Oatlands Handmade is at 112 High Street in Oatlands Tasmania.
Phone 03 6254 1391 for details of opening hours.

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Map: Oatlands Handmade…

The cost of accommodation.  That topic has certainly been cause for heated debate just recently.  Roger’s article “Ten Things That Attract Me to Tasmania” sparked a discussion when he issued a warning to providers about pricing themselves out of the market.  And we couldn’t help but notice an article in The Mercury this week about the cost of accommodation.

The cost of accommodation in Tasmania has been cause for debate

The Cost of Accommodation: Value for Money

The Mercury article was focused on luxury, five-star holidays with all the bells and whistles (think Saffire Resort at Freycinet).  We don’t focus on that market, because they already get outstanding promotion and media coverage via Tourism Tasmania.  We tend to write about the other 95% of the market; places a bit more mid-range.

What do you expect from your accommodation in Tasmania? And at what price?

What is a Reasonable Price to Pay for Accommodation?

So let’s talk about the cost of accommodation, using our current home-away-from-home in Burnie.  What would be a reasonable price to pay for a place with…

• four bedrooms (with beds for seven)
• two bathrooms (one ensuite & main with spa bath)
• full kitchen (with modern appliances including two-door
  fridge/freezer, cook-top, stove & dishwasher)
• laundry (with washing machine & clothes dryer)
• lounge with large screen TV (and a second smaller TV
  in the master bedroom)
• free WiFi (internet access)
• iPod docking station
• free parking and secure entrance

Optional Extras & Bonus Attractions

We must point out that the location is quiet and convenient to the central shopping district, but it doesn’t have a balcony with a bbq overlooking majestic views like the Bicheno Holiday House we wrote about.

Several extras have been provided, including washing powder, tea, coffee and cling wrap; but a luxury breakfast basket like that you’d receive at Alice’s Cottages in Launceston is (unfortunately) not included.

What sort of extras do you like included in the cost of accommodation?

We have easy access to a major annual sporting event (the Burnie International tennis tournament); but there is no river stocked with trout in the backyard, or kayaks on the lawn like we enjoyed at Ulverstone River Retreat.

And there’s a beach just down the road, but we don’t have it right on our doorstep; as we’re expecting to find at Beachside Retreat West Inlet when we arrive in Stanley.

Please Consider: the Cost of Accommodation

There’s just a few things to consider when discussing the cost of accommodation in Tasmania.  Just as Roger described, we’ve stayed in some shocking places (and obviously we don’t write about them!!).  The kind of places that make you wish you’d stayed at home in your own clean and comfortable house, and abandoned the holiday altogether.

And just before we throw this open for a full-on argument, I would like to invite tourism operators to have their say.  Why don’t you tell our readers a little about the booking commissions you are forced to pay to advertise your properties?  It’s only fair that all the cards are laid on the table.

So… over to you now.  What are your views on the
cost of accommodation in Tasmania?  Do you holiday in Tassie,
love the experience and think you get value for money?
Is one Tasmanian region or town better or worse in terms of value?
Or do you choose to go elsewhere because it’s cheaper?
Maybe cost has nothing to do with your choice?
Let us know by leaving a reply below.

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Map: Cost of Accommodation, Burnie Tasmania…

Sydney to Hobart: the Youngest Tasmanian Female Skipper

by Laura Roper

I am the youngest ever Tasmanian female skipper to complete the Rolex Sydney to Hobart (in 5 days 3 minutes and 12 seconds and at 22 years of age!).  My name is Laura Roper and I am very happy to claim that title.

Laura Roper takes the helm of Natelle Two in the Sydney to Hobart

Sailing from Hobart

With a delivery crew of three sailors and a very keen aunty we left the Derwent Sailing Squadron in Sandy Bay Hobart on the 14th of December 2011 at 10am.  We waved goodbye and Merry Christmas to all those who had come to see us off.  Everyone that came had done something to help me achieve my dream;  from cooking, sponsorship (MountainView Meadery, The Metz Sandy Bay and Clarence Joint Therapy), aligning me with the A21 Campaign or just believing in me.  They were all there!  With one more lot of kisses, very tight hugs and the biggest smile that had ever crossed my face, we left Hobart.  And on time too!

Cruise Ships, Wildlife and Sunsets

We threw off the mooring lines and headed south down the river.  As I realised what I was about to be a part of, the excitement really set in.  We rounded Tasman Island later that afternoon and as we headed up towards the bottom of Maria Island we were overtaken by the cruise ship that had also left Hobart that day.  As Aunty Ruth contemplated jumping ship for happy hour we settled in for our first night.

A cruise ship departing Hobart overtakes the Natelle Two near Maria Island

The trip up the coast was beautiful but unfortunately not much wind, so the motor was going most of the way.  Between the four of us, we spotted various forms of wildlife:  birds, dolphins, whales and sharks.  We crossed Bass Strait with some lovely sunset views and without a hint of treacherous water in sight.

No treacherous waters in Bass Strait, just a gorgeous sunset vista!

Return to Eden

We pulled into Eden after crossing The Strait for a bit of R&R.  We stayed the afternoon and night and set out at 6am the next morning (Sunday).  As it turned out this was to be the longest day and night of my life!  The winds made 40 knots across the deck that night and I wasn’t really looking at the wave height.  I was too busy trying to keep myself awake and warm;  but I’m sure they were high.  In about 20 hours we had travelled about 50 nautical miles (in other words, not very far).  The next day, the same distance took us 6 hours.

Then the decision was made to head back to Eden.  We had broken the main traveller, lost a halyard and the main halyard had begun to break.  Luckily these were all easily fixed, and I was finally able to sleep for a few hours after being awake for 40.  The rest of the delivery trip was uneventful and we cruised quietly into Sydney on the evening of Wednesday the 19th of December.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge: the Natelle Two crew finally arrives for the start of the race

The Sydney Whirlwind

The following few days were a whirlwind of getting the boat up to scratch, talking to media, seeing friends, safety inspections and catching up on the week of news I had missed.  Then came Boxing Day.  My day started at 5:45am.   Up early to have the final shower I was to have for five days and get myself ready for the media.  That morning I had the 6:30am time slot on live ABC TV, then on to ABC Radio live, Sky Sports News and Fox Sports News.

The final skippers and navigators briefing was at 10am.  This was where we got our final look at the weather systems moving about the coast and what we were to expect in the coming days.  Starting with a NE and turning to a southerly up to 35 knots that evening.  The weather bureau predicted this to last a couple of days and for the wind to then swing back to the north east.  We were also to expect large swell due to the cyclone that was moving through northern Australia.  With a quick good luck wish to Jessica Watson it was back to the boat to get ready.

A21 Campaign

One of the A21 Campaign staff members came to meet me and thank me for my work in helping to raise awareness about the horrors of human trafficking for the sex trade.  We carried their logo on our main sail as well as the hull of the boat and on our shirts, in the hope of helping young women that are experiencing something that I can’t even begin to comprehend and still struggle to understand.

From the Harbour to The Heads

We set off from the yacht club and the nerves began to set in.  We left early to go out and have a crew meeting in peace and quiet.  This is when we allocated jobs in the case of an emergency, notified the crew of their watches and addressed any questions anyone had.  Soon enough it was 12:30.  The nerves increased along with the number of boats and number of helicopters.

We had done our sail past with our storm sails and informed the committee of how many crew we had.  It wasn’t long before the 10 minute gun went and I don’t really remember much from then until we got out of The Heads.  I know I was shaking for part of it, as I nearly tacked into another boat, which would have spelled a very short end to months of work and years of dreams.  We were the last boat to start but we had 628 nautical miles to catch up and luckily some boats crossed the line too soon, so they were required to turn back and go through the start line again.

The next thing I really remember was rounding the seaward mark outside The Heads and heading for home!  The helicopters continued to buzz overhead and the spectator craft had taken off with the super maxis, so luckily we didn’t have to deal with their white wash too much once outside The Heads.

Thunder, Lightning & Other Challenges

As we headed down the NSW coast we settled in for the first watch of the night.  The change came in sooner than predicted and I wish I had pictures for you of the spectacular cloud that rolled in with the southerly.  I was too busy and it was a bit wet to take photos!  Along with the southerly change came a thunderstorm which gave some spectacular lightning, although being in the middle of the ocean with a big metal pole (the mast) sticking up in the air isn’t the most comforting place to be in the middle of an electrical storm!!

The mast of Natelle Two, causing the youngest Tasmanian female skipper some concern!

For the next two nights not much sleep was had; we found every leak that Natelle Two had plus some.  My brother was severely sea sick and Dad realised he had missed a couple of our scheduled radio contacts.  We were supposed to call in at midnight and listen on a different channel at midday.  Well Dad got them mixed up and in the end the sailing committee whacked us with a 60 minute penalty, even after Dad’s explanation and apology.

Dream Bass Strait Crossing

We had another dream crossing of Bass Strait and I am yet to believe the stories I’ve heard.  As we hit the Tasmanian coast and day began to break, the winds were perfect.  We put up a spinnaker and ran all the way to the bottom of Maria Island doing up to 12 knots as we surfed down the waves.  It was during these days I char-grilled my feet…  I forgot to put sunscreen on them, and would come to regret that when returning to work.  We also learned that water had gotten into the motor, stopping it from starting.  With Dad and Ashley on the job, we all held our breath until it finally spluttered to life.  This was the only real issue we had during the whole race.

On Friday we had lamb roast as we ran down the coast and moved closer to home.  It wasn’t long before Tasman Island was in view once again, and we were only 40 nautical miles from finishing.  The next major land mark was the Iron Pot.  As we approached, we realised we would have a little competition on our way up the river in the form of the yacht Aurora.  After a tacking duel around The Pot, we separated a little and were able to concentrate on our own race.

Welcome landmarks as the crew of Natelle Two round the Iron Pot south of Hobart

The Welcome Sight of Home

It was at this point the spectator craft began to appear.  My other brother Cameron and his girlfriend came to meet us at The Pot to take some photos, along with some other boats that had come to take in the sights.  I even got to wave to Mum from a distance who was standing on the beach.  This was the first real sign of civilisation for nearly five days and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face as home came into view.  We had a lovely run up the river until Opossum Bay where we ran out of wind for about an hour.  Luckily we had some friends come out to meet us for a chat, while we finished off Mum’s homemade pies.

A Happy Hero’s Welcome

As the sea breeze came in we put up the spinnaker and headed for the finish line!  Unfortunately Aurora got away from us in the lighter winds and beat us home.  But nothing could detract from doing 11 knots over the finish line under spinnaker.  As we packed up the boat we got instructions on where we would moor in Kings Pier and about doing a sail past next to the Taste Festival.  I cannot even begin to describe the feeling of coming into my home town with everyone stopping their lunch to stand up just to clap and cheer me and my crew coming home.  It was at this point I discovered my smile could get bigger.

Natelle Two arrives home to a huge welcome from the crowds at the Taste Festival

We then headed for our berth with a prime spot next to the main jetty that everyone walks along.  I then saw a sea of red shirts on the backs of everyone that I knew and had supported me through out the past 12 months.  The announcer came over the speaker to welcome us home just as we were tying up and at that point I knew I had finished.  For the first time in my life I was the one being welcomed, not doing the welcoming!  Writing of this moment still gets me excited, with a smile on my face almost as big as the original.  The hugs and kisses ensued and I got to see my family for the first time since I left.  It may have only been two weeks but it felt like forever!

Officially the Youngest Tasmanian Female Skipper

The drinks began to flow and media began to descend, wanting to interview the youngest Tasmanian female skipper to finish the Sydney to Hobart.  Unfortunately they stuck around long enough to snap me being thrown in by my trusty crew.  It wasn’t long until the hype started to die down and I was able to focus on getting home for a shower!

Sydney to Hobart celebrations for the crew of Natelle Two at the finish

Laura Roper was treated to the customary dunking at the finish of the Sydney to Hobart

As the youngest Tasmanian female skipper ever, Laura had a lot of media attention

It was an experience and a half, and I cant wait to go again.  Now that I’m already the youngest Tasmanian female skipper, maybe just as crew next time.  But right now, I am going to enjoy the little things in life… showers, flushing toilets, deodorant and CLEAN undies!

Photo Credits

Laura Roper, Ruth Heather, Val Lamont, Aleisha Duggan, Amberly Ford

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Water Skiers: New World Record

by Mike Fry

At 7.20am this morning, The Eagle towed 145 water skiers into the record books.  They set a new world record for the number of water skiers towed behind a single vessel.

Water skiers towed behind The Eagle in Strahan set a new world record

The Powerful Tasmanian Eagle

This was a picture perfect morning with a clear sky and glassy waters on Macquarie Harbour as The Eagle slowly pushed the throttles forward.  World Heritage Cruises own and operate The Eagle which is the only vessel in Tasmania capable of pulling this amount of water skiers.  Even then they had to fit special propellers to provide enough power to lift the 154 skiers that started off.

The Eagle owned by World Heritage Cruises was modified for the world record attempt

The water skiers settle behind The Eagle in Macquarie Harbour, Strahan, Tasmania

The Eyes of the World: Record Set in Strahan

The water skiers gripped their tows and braced themselves for the ride of their lives.  And they managed to break their own record of 114 skiers set two years ago at Strahan.  There was a mighty cheer as the helicopters buzzed overhead.  Many people around the world were able to watch the water skiers breaking the record live by logging on to Strahan’s live webcam.

Water skiers waiting to set the new world record, in the pristine Strahan environment

On the west coast of Tasmania, in pristine conditions, a new world record was set

145 Water Skiers: A Day on the West Coast

After one nautical mile 145 water skiers were still standing and a new world record was created.  Today, in the early morning, on a pristine day on the west coast of Tasmania.

Mike Fry is the owner of Ormiston House bed and breakfast
accommodation in Strahan Tasmania

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Map: Water Skiers World Record, Strahan Tasmania…

Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers

by Michelle Kneipp Pegler

Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers shop in East Devonport, near the Spirit of Tasmania terminal

I recently spent the morning with Susanne from Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers, located in Murray Street, East Devonport.  Right near the Spirit Of Tasmania!  Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers is a retail and online business specialising in genuine Tasmanian products sourced from producers throughout this beautiful state of ours.

Susanne only uses products that are 100% Tasmanian in the Gourmet Hampers

Tourism and All Things Tasmanian!

Susanne has a BA (Hons) in Tourism Management and has over 20 years experience in management, tourism, hospitality and customer service.  She also has a passionate and enthusiastic approach to her business, tourism and all things Tasmanian.  This dynamic lady has many fantastic ideas and plans for future projects which I can’t wait to see unfold and will be an added bonus to this exciting business.

Gift wrapped Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers to collect or have mailed for you

Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers are elegantly packaged in glossy black reusable boxes with hot pink ribbon for the ladies and silver for the men (or let them know your thoughts and they will gift-wrap accordingly.)  You can choose from carefully created ready-to-go hampers or select your own items for that personal touch.

There’s a wide range of Tasmanian gourmet products to choose from and they make an ideal birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift. Just let them know what you need and where you need it delivered and they will do the rest.  You can also pick up pre-ordered gourmet breakfast requirements or picnic hampers.  What a great way to start the day!

Speak to Susanne about your selection of gourmet products for a truly Tasmanian Hamper

Spirit of Tasmania Passenger Ferries

The Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers shop has opening hours coinciding with the Spirit of Tasmania sailings which makes it a great place to stop and buy truly Tasmanian products.  Why not phone ahead and pre-order a hamper to pick up on your way on or off the ferry.  Or if you are looking for a corporate gift alternative, one of these hampers would be a great choice.  There are a number of sizes to choose from and you can make it as individual as you want.

Tourists can also purchase gourmet Tasmanian products as individual souvenirs

There’s visitor information here as well for all your touring needs.  You’ll be able to find out information about accommodation, tours, where to eat, etc and Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers also act as a referral service to tourism related businesses throughout Tasmania.  While visiting the shop have a look at the Tasmanian-made non-edible products such as Pure Sense Candles and Saward Glass Art.

To get in touch with Susanne at Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers phone: 0405 625 032 or find them on Facebook.

Products are beautifully presented in black boxes with either silver or hot pink trim

Michelle Kneipp Pegler writes a blog called Leven River Farm
about the ups and downs of her Good Life
and occasional forays delving into the lessons of the past.

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Map: Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers, East Devonport…