Archive for the ‘Hobart and Surrounds’ Category

You might just drive straight through Eaglehawk Neck on the way to visit Port Arthur Convict Settlement, or the coal mines historic site on the Tasman Peninsula.  You might stop briefly to visit the Tessellated Pavement State Reserve and marvel at that geological phenomenon before motoring on.  Or you might allow a little extra time and inspect the Dog Line and Officers Quarters Museum while you’re at it.

A bronze statue marks the location of the dog line at Eaglehawk Neck

A Scary Dog Line at Eaglehawk Neck

The dog line is a fascinating part of Tasmanian convict history.  If the statue is a true reflection of the actual dogs, they were ferocious!  Tethered at regular intervals, with lamp posts reflecting light onto cockle shells, the purpose of the dog line was was to prevent convicts escaping the Tasman Peninsula from the Port Arthur settlement.  Eaglehawk Neck is a narrow isthmus, and there were enough dogs in the line to stretch across the width of the sand dunes.  Their barking would alert the guards to any movement in the bush.

The narrow isthmus on the Tasman Peninsula at Eaglehawk Neck was guarded by a dog line

Obviously, the dogs needed someone to care for them, and a convict was assigned the duty.  Authorities considered Eaglehawk Neck the key to maintaining the security of the Tasman Peninsula during the convict period.  With that in mind, some dogs were even placed out on the water.  Combined with the thought of shark attacks, the area was practically impassible for all but the most determined and cunning of prisoners.  Martin Cash, who escaped in 1842 and went on to live as a bush-ranger, was one of the “lucky” few.

The historic site at Eaglehawk Neck ~ the dog line and Officers Quarters Museum

Officers Quarters Museum

The military station at Eaglehawk Neck was established in 1832 and by 1836 the settlement had grown to employ about 25 soldiers.  The building originally provided as the Officers Quarters is today a museum, which is free to visit.  The area once had a store and a jetty, and a hut where the children of the military would attend school.

Eaglehawk Neck, part of the convict trail from Hobart to Port Arthur

Eaglehawk Neck was an isolated location,  but communication between outposts was still possible.  Important, numerically coded messages were sent between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck (and on to Hobart) via a chain of semaphore stations.  The mast-like structures had movable arms attached and were often used to forewarn the military about convict escapees.  So even those brave, desperate or stupid enough to chance the dog line or the sharks, faced a very slim chance of success.

The Officers Quarters Museum at Eaglehawk Neck, Tasman Peninsula

For more information about the dog line convict heritage site, contact the
Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Service.  The Mount Nelson Signal Station offers
another opportunity to learn about the semaphore communications system.

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Map: Dog Line, Eaglehawk Neck Tasmania…

It’s marvelous what you can see when you open your eyes, and see the beauty around you.  Open our eyes we did, and found on our doorstep and only minutes from Hobart, a room with a view.  The Signal Station Brasserie is surrounded by a beautiful natural bush setting, with the most spectacular views of Hobart and beyond, all the way down the D’Entrecastreaux Channel, across to Port Arthur and up the Derwent River to Cadburys.

The Signal Station Brasserie has magnificent views over the Derwent River & beyond

Signal Station Brasserie

Words by Jen Holdsworth and Photos by Blanche Sayers

The day gave us a mystical view: clearing mist with the sun peaking through; reflections back to us from the Derwent River. Not a breath of wind, with only the sounds of native birds: Blue Wrens, Scarlet and Red Robins, Honeyeaters and Currajongs. Simply majestic!

No, we were not on Mount Wellington, but another beautiful mountain.  Down in altitude somewhat, and yet so close to Hobart, it is Mount Nelson.  My friend and I ventured minutes from our doorstep to enjoy a pleasant coffee at the Signal Station Brasserie, also once known at the Station Café.

The Signal Station Brasserie has also been known as the Station Cafe

History and Art: the Signal Station Cafe

It’s such a beautiful building! Originally housing the signal man and his family, the Signal Station was built in 1811 to report shipping activity to Port Arthur, then later on to Hobart as well. Over the years the building has had many transformations, but has always retained its beauty and personality. Current owner Ing, has transformed the café with a wow factor.  When you walk into the Signal Station Brassiere, you are greeted with stunning open rooms.  They are crisp and fresh with beautiful unique furniture and one-off pieces that reflect Ing’s passion for retro things.

Ing, the owner of the Signal Station Brasserie, has selected stunning art and furniture

On the walls are stunning works of art, by local artists such as Amanda Van Steenis, Julia Bradshaw and Mell Hills. “I really enjoy supporting Tasmanian artists, the feedback as been really positive” says Ing, who shows such pride in all the artwork.

Signal Station Brasserie owner Ing supports local Tasmanian artists & producers

Inspirational: Eat and Drink in the Views

The food on offer is inspiring.  After talking with chef Jon, who has trained in Europe, I can see his passion and the enjoyment he gets from coming to work each day; working in a place with stunning views and such wonderful Tasmanian produce.  Both Jon and Simone (his apprentice, who has written a wonderful book called Tasmanian Menu) have created a menu that is in touch with the surroundings. How does a pot pie of steak and kidney sound?  Or maybe a porterhouse steak sandwich with onion marmalade, fresh beetroot, garlic aioli and rocket served with vegetable crisps?  Sitting down on a crisp autumn day enjoying the stunning views, good company, and good quality (very reasonably priced) food…  Ideal I’d say.

Chef Jon also creates the most divine cakes each day.  Like chocolate quince and pear tarts; or walnut, apple and olive oil cake with honey butter and cream.  Plus of course an array of hot drinks including tea from the Art of Tea, good Tasmanian wines and Moo Brew Beer.  Jon also creates lovely preserves and condiments, something else to look out for.

Preserving more than history at the Signal Station Cafe, Mount Nelson Tasmania

Live Music: Sunday Afternoons

On Sunday afternoons the Signal Station Brassiere offers live music.  It’s the perfect atmosphere to host live music; you can sit outside to take in the views and sip on a selection of wines.  Or perhaps enjoy the music and the views from behind the panoramic windows.  Even the toilet has a view!

Enjoy the Sunday afternoon sessions of live music from the top of Mount Nelson

The brassiere can also cater for functions, weddings, corporate events, birthdays etc.  And what beautiful photos you’ll be able to take, with such a setting!  Onsite parking (no fighting with traffic), accessible for wheelchairs, a lovely host and staff in the kitchen… you will be guaranteed a spectacular event.

The Signal Station Brasserie makes a fabulous function or wedding venue

A Walk in the Park

There are many walking tracks close by, including the Truganini Reserve walk and Bicentennial Park walk.  Why not enjoy a walk and end with a stop at the Brassiere? I know my family will certainly be enjoying more visits to the Signal Station Brassiere, and I would encourage others to also pop along.  It’s just a stone’s throw away from Hobart and offers so many other sights without even leaving your chair.

The Mount Nelson Signal Station Cafe is surrounded by bush

The cafe is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  Signal Station Brassiere update their live music schedule on their Facebook page.

Jen Holdsworth is the founder of online business
Hospital Healing Hampers.  She also writes the Holdsworth Chronicles.
This article was a collaboration between Jen and her friend Blanche Sayers.
If you’d like Jen or another member of our great team to visit you in order to
write about your business, please contact Think Tasmania.

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Map: Rivulet Cafe, South Hobart…

David and Anne Kernke are the owners of Shene, the historic Tasmanian property located in Pontville.  Anne has been following Think Tasmania on Facebook, and was impressed by the photographs taken by Dan Fellow.  She invited him to visit and inspect the work they’re doing as the custodians of this Heritage Highway treasure.

Shene Tasmania is a valuable link with Australia's colonial heritage

Shene: Unveiling a Heritage Treasure

Photos by Dan Fellow

The story of Shene dates back to 1819, when Governor Lachlan Macquarie issued a land grant to Edward Paine, grandson of King George III.  The homestead and stable complex were designed by Francis Butler, son of prominent English lawyer Gamaliel Butler.  Francis was the architect responsible for many of the iconic buildings throughout the Hobart region, but the construction of this Pontville property was a symbol of the wealth and power of the landed gentry.

Shene includes an elaborate homestead and stable buildings designed by Francis Butler

Visit the historic stables and barn buildings during a walking tour of Shene

These days, Shene is providing owners David and Anne Kernke with a wealth of history to share.  Built using convict labour, there are tales of conflict between the settlers, the convicts, local Aboriginals and the occasional bush ranger.  As a vital agricultural holding, the wheat grown on the property was used to sustain the colony in both Hobart and Sydney Cove.

Some amazing history has been uncovered during the renovation of Shene

Tour and High Tea with David and Anne Kernke

The public can now gain an incredible insight into early colonial times by joining a walking tour of Shene.   David and Anne Kernke escort visitors around the privately owned estate, taking in the Georgian homestead, servant’s quarters and the iconic stables and barn.

Join owners David and Anne Kernke on a heritage walking tour of Shene

Tours are strictly by appointment and operate Friday through to Monday at 2:00pm (or at other times by special arrangement).  Bookings are essential, and are to be made at least 24 hours in advance.  Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear appropriate for walking.  All bookings are made online.

David and Anne Kernke have uncovered a diverse range of treasure at Shene

Passionate about Shene, David and Anne Kernke are keen to share their heritage property

The guided walking tour of Shene lasts approximately 90 minutes, but guests are welcome to stay on and appreciate the heritage experience.  The official tour concludes with High Tea served in the homestead, and features produce grown on the property at Shene.

The walking tour at Shene concludes with High Tea in the Georgian homestead

Shene Tasmania is located at 76 Shene Road Pontville.  It’s
about 30 minutes north of Hobart on the Midland Highway,
driving towards Launceston. For more details, contact
David and Anne Kernke on 0408 020 007 or visit the Shene website.
You can also follow Shene Tasmania on Facebook and Twitter.

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Map: Shene, Pontville Tasmania…

Matt Moran has a unique title.  When officially introduced, he’s quite often called a “Friend of Australia”.  And with that distinguished title comes his current role with Tourism Australia as an ambassador for tourism quality assurance.  Currently touring the country to promote the T-QUAL Tick, Matt has recently spent some time in Tasmania and enjoyed some of the state’s fine hospitality.

Matt Moran, travelling Tasmania in style as the T-QUAL Tick Tour Ambassador

Matt Moran Travels Tasmania T-QUAL Tick Style

The celebrated chef hosted the launch of the T-QUAL Tick Tour at ARIA Restaurant in March.  Actually co-owned by Matt Moran, the venue on Sydney’s waterfront is considered one of the country’s best restaurants.  It’s also the epitome of the tourism experience the Australian Government plan to endorse with this new national symbol of tourism quality.

Matt Moran jumps aboard a fishing boat outside the Henry Jones Art Hotel in Hobart

The second leg of the T-QUAL Tick Tour brought Matt Moran to Hobart.  The amount of territory covered in one Tasmanian weekend would suggest a very hectic schedule.  But don’t feel too much sympathy!   Every establishment has to pass a rigorous assessment, ensuring they deliver a first-class, quality experience to the traveller (and that would include Matt) before they’re granted the tick of approval.

Matt Moran catches the Red Decker Bus to the Cascade Brrewery in Hobart

Hurricane T-QUAL Tick Tour of Hobart

The Hobart schedule included a stop at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania on Sunday morning.  Just as we did, Matt was able to learn a little about the achievements of early explorers and Tasmanian maritime history.  We gave a big thumbs up to the museum with its huge collections of artefacts, tools, equipment, photographs and paintings.  And as a T-QUAL endorsed product, it has a nationally recognised symbol of tourism quality (just in case you doubt us!).

Matt Moran visits the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, already granted the T-QUAL tick

The Sunday afternoon timetable had Matt Moran taking an adventure cruise with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.  Our experience with the award-winning company involved their Bruny Island cruise, but Matt took the sea plane from Hobart to Port Arthur, on the Tasman Peninsula.  He was duly impressed and declared the experience totally worthy of the T-QUAL tick.

Matt Moran takes an adventure cruise with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys

Henry Jones Art Hotel Hosts Matt Moran

Matt spent the evening at the Henry Jones Art Hotel to recharge his batteries ready for a visit to MONA the next morning.  Gavin was invited to Henry’s Restaurant for lunch that day, and had a chat with the Australian tourism ambassador about his impressions of Tasmania.  Having been to the state quite recently (with the MasterChef team), Matt’s references to the food, scenery and culture were all glowing.  And yes, he did have a chance to meet up with Jack Lark, one of the Junior MasterChef stars, during a visit to Lark Distillery.

Gavin meets with Matt Moran for lunch at Henry's Restaurant in Hobart

The next destination for the T-QUAL Tick Tour will be the Northern Territory later this month. I’m pretty sure when Matt Moran is in a cage, diving with crocodiles, he’ll wish he was back in Tasmania. The Tassie Devil will most likely seem quite tame then!

Gavin dined at Henry’s Restaurant (part of the Henry Jones Art Hotel in Hobart)
as a guest of Tourism Australia and the organisers of the T-QUAL Tick Tour.

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Map: Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart Tasmania…

Driving to Mt Field over the Easter break was the best decision we made.  By far.  Don’t get me wrong, we did some other fabulous stuff too:  Teddies on the Green in Richmond; a trip to the summit of Mount Wellington; dinner at the Ball and Chain in Salamanca Place.  They’re the places you go when you entertain first-time visitors to Hobart.  But we were inspired by Cassandra’s article about historic New Norfolk and made our way there just as a wintry cold-snap hit the state.  And it was wonderful.

Snow on Mt Field makes a decision to visit the Derwent Valley an especially good one

Mt Field: Autumn in the Derwent Valley

To be honest, when we set out from Hobart mid-morning, we were probably content with just making it to New Norfolk.  Enjoy the autumn colours; maybe visit the Salmon Ponds or browse a few antique stores.  When we arrived at the Bushy Park junction, storm clouds were brewing overhead.  But we made an executive decision to eat lunch at the Mt Field National Park visitor centre, and then plan our next move.

Lunch at Waterfalls Cafe at Mt Field National Park, Derwent Valley Tasmania

Warming Lunch at Waterfalls Cafe

While we ordered hot soup and sandwiches and drank warming coffee at Waterfalls Cafe, the heavens opened and the outlook was bleak.  But just as we emerged from the gift shop, the sun appeared.  So we quickly loaded up the 4WD’s and started the alpine ascent to Lake Dobson.

While it was still fine, we stopped at the Tall Trees Walk on the way, and everyone was impressed with the giants of the forest.  The walk is gentle and stable; suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

The Tall Trees Walk at Mt Field is an easy, 30-minute trek through giant swamp gums

Tall Trees and Alpine Roads

We continued onward and upward, with a total of 16kms to travel from the visitor centre to Lake Dobson.  The narrow, gravel road is in good condition and the drive isn’t too harrowing.  Sometimes, you need to edge past oncoming traffic, but at an appropriate speed, it’s all good.  There’s a lookout part way up that offers a wonderful view over the Derwent Valley.

Views over the Derwent Valley from the Mt Field National Park alpine road

When you reach the lakes plateau you can see the peaks of Mt Field; and we were ecstatic to see them covered in snow.  Icy flakes were still falling gently when we arrived at the Lake Dobson car park, and it was just magical.  The kids were amazed to see mounds of white on the cars already parked there.

Snowfalls in Tasmania in Autumn: Mt Field National Park, Derwent Valley

Icy Lake Dobson

Obviously others were in the vicinity, possibly bush-walking, given the amount of snow on their vehicles.  But we had the place to ourselves, and enjoyed a vigourous snow-ball fight.  Then we ventured down the few steps leading to the water’s edge of Lake Dobson.

Lake Dobson is 16kms from the Mt Field National Park visitor centre

Wombats, Pademelons and Bennetts Wallabies

Last time we went to Mt Field, we met our very first Tasmanian wombat.  This time, we encountered an equally friendly version of wildlife.  We weren’t sure if it was a pademelon or a Bennetts wallaby, because it was partially hidden by the vegetation.  According to staff at the visitors centre, the pademelon is supposed to be more timid.  But our mate, although a wild animal, was very calm and wasn’t scared at all.

Chances are high for an encounter with wildlife at Mt Field National Park

Before long, it was time to return to the base of Mt Field National Park.  Thankfully, the heaters in the car were quick to warm our frozen hands.  The temperature gauge was showing zero, but the Tassie experience was worth every single cold toe.

Not our first visit to Mt Field, but still something special to share with Think Tasmania readers

Must-See Russell Falls

It was raining again when we arrived back at base, but a visit to Mt Field isn’t complete without a walk to Russell Falls.  We donned our jackets, but yet again we were blessed by the weather Gods.  The rain cleared as we made our way from the visitor centre towards one of the most-loved waterfalls in Tasmania.

Take a walk to Russell Falls at Mt Field National Park. You won't be sorry!

True to form, the melted snow was powering over the tiers of Russell Falls, looking spectacular and impressing the tourists (and the locals!).  Our photos can’t compare to the waterfall series taken by Cameron Blake of Leverett Photography, but we snapped away anyhow.

Russell Falls, a highlight of any visit to Mt Field National Park in Tasmania

Day Trip: Hobart to Mt Field

And that marked the end of our day trip from Hobart.  We didn’t have the inclination to tackle Horseshoe or Lady Barron Falls… maybe next time.  This wasn’t our first trip to Mt Field National Park, and it certainly won’t be our last!

When we returned to Hobart, we grabbed a quick dinner at the Wrest Point Coffee Shop.  Much of the conversation revolved around the day’s great fortunes: to experience something so wonderful without much effort or planning at all.

Visitors are required to purchase a National Park Pass for Mt Field.
There is lots of accommodation in the Derwent Valley region
or you can drive from Hobart in just over an hour.

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Map: Mt Field National Park, Tasmania…

Teddies on the Green is a cute place to shop.  It’s a cottage filled with teddy bears and golliwogs on the village green in the historic township of Richmond in the Coal River Valley region of Tasmania.

Gorgeous golliwogs at Teddies on the Green in Richmond Tasmania

Teddies on the Green: Ready, Set, Go!

Toni, the owner of Teddies on the Green, follows Think Tasmania on Facebook.  In the past, she’s offered a special deal to readers looking to buy their own fluffy bear.  So we thought it was only right that we call in to visit during a day trip to Richmond.  And of course, we were pretty keen to see some of the gorgeous creatures she has in her store.

Toni, the owner of Teddies on the Green in Richmond, with one of the Charlie Bears

Signs point the way to the aptly named Teddies on the Green in the centre of the Richmond village.  From the outside, you can’t imagine the delights hidden inside Millers Cottage, the bears’ tiny home.  Several rooms, with low ceilings like a cubby house, stacked with cuddly teddy bears and supplies for bear-makers.

Teddies on the Green attracts the tourists that visit Richmond in Tasmania

Millers Cottage is in the centre of the village green in Richmond, Tasmania

Charlie Bears, Paddington Bears, Hand-made Bears…

According to Toni, the most popular of all her teddies are the Charlie Bears.  And when you see them, you’ll understand why.  They have such lifelike little faces, with expressions that plead for a cuddle.  They all have their own names, and the panda called Xena was my favourite.

The adorable Charlie Bears are sold at Teddies on the Green in Richmond

Teddies on the Green have something for everyone in a range of prices.  From rabbits poised to hold chocolate eggs at Easter, through to colourful monsters, baby presents and Paddington Bears.  There’s also a selection of collectible teddy bears handmade in Tasmania.

Little monsters for the little monster in your life! From Teddies on the Green, Richmond

Paddington Bear, an all-time favourite, is also sold at Teddies on the Green

Millers Cottage: Business for Sale

Toni handles the bears as if they were babies, gently fluffing their fur and arranging them in position on the shelves.  Teddies on the Green is for sale, and it’s clearly going to be a sad day when the keys are handed over to the new owner.

The shop was opened over 16 years ago, and Toni has been caring for the bears for the last few years.  The sale is only due to ill-health, and Toni hopes someone with a passion equal to her own takes her place in the gorgeous Millers Cottage.

We hope so too!

For more information about Teddies on the Green, visit their website
or follow Teddies on the Green on Facebook.  Toni usually opens Millers
Cottage seven days, but to confirm opening times, phone 0406 311 035.

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Map: Teddies on the Green, Richmond Tasmania…

Historic New Norfolk

by Cassandra Wunsch

After Hobart and Launceston, historic New Norfolk was the third planned settlement in Tasmania.  Official attempts to name the town were basically ignored by the inhabitants, with ‘the Hills’ and ‘Elizabeth Town’ failing to stick.  In a lot of ways, that may have set the tone for the general ‘go your own way’ mentality often attributed to the residents.

Historic New Norfolk accommodation property Tynwald (Photo by Dan Fellow)

Hop Plants & Oust Houses

Hops made their debut in the area in 1846 and that’s where our interest really begins.  The most well-known feature of the town was the Oast House on the Lyell Highway.  Only in operation for a little over two years (1867-1869), the Oast House made its way into the modern tourism trade, operating as a museum and tea house until it was destroyed by fire in 2009.

With the major draw-card destroyed, there was a serious drop off in interest in New Norfolk… though this is completely unwarranted.  The Oast House was good, but it was far from All.

Historic New Norfolk Oust House (Photo by Dan Fellow)

The Bush Inn

The truth is, there is a heap to see and do in New Norfolk, especially if you’re interested in history.  My personal favourite location is the Bush Inn.  At the time when I was a frequent patron, they did a smoked rainbow trout to die for!  My father used to love watching me eat it.  He said what was left at the end reminded him of Fred Flintstone’s comb.  In food, as in life, Dad’s usual approach is a little ham-fisted.

If you’re after a little bit of scandal, you could always track down Licensee Tom Atkins and ask him about secret convict tunnels which have been rumoured to start in the basement and run off underneath the historic New Norfolk township!

Autumn colours: click image to see article ~ Autumn in Tasmania

Antique Stores

I am of the personal opinion that New Norfolk also has the highest proportion of antique stores relative to town size of any place in Australia!  You can’t turn around without falling over one.  Slightly dim rooms, piled floor to ceiling with everything from junky buttons to the Narnia wardrobe.  They’re also uniformly run by friendly retirees who’re more than happy to answer your questions about their wares, and all the local history they know.

The Grave of Betty King

One such conversation might lead you out to Magra, about 3km north of New Norfolk proper, to the grave of Betty King.  Local lore suggests that Mrs King (then miss Thackery) was the first white woman to set foot on Australian soil. Or it might have you water-gazing near the New Norfolk Bridge, where the sunken hulk to the river steamer ‘Emu’ is still sitting.

The Derwent Valley, attracting tourists for history, nature and fun (Photo by Dan Fellow)

Salmon Ponds

If you’re after a touch more excitement, or a family outing with the kids, you can’t go past the Salmon Ponds.  There’s a museum and heritage buildings for mum and dad, a licenced restaurant and the kids can feed the fish.  Located about 10 minutes from historic New Norfolk, this picturesque spot is well worth a visit.

The Salmon Ponds is a great family attraction, 10 mins from historic New Norfolk

Devil Jet

Not lively enough for you?  Alright… you asked for it.  Devil Jet is a little enterprise on the banks of the Derwent River designed to get you screaming!  The 12 metre jet boat is designed specifically for skimming you along the surface of the river like a smooth stone.  A word of warning though, you will get wet.

Want more than history in New Norfolk? Try a Devil Jet Boat ride on the Derwent River

 Cassandra Wunsch is a third-year journalism student at Open Universities
Australia.  She lives in Hobart with her husband Florian and daughter Taliesin,
and would like to continue to write full-time when she graduates.
Her personal blog is www.10percentinspired.com

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Map: Historical New Norfolk, Tasmania…