Posts Tagged ‘Antarctica’

We recently toured the Hobart waterfront with Captain Fell’s Historic Ferries.  It got me thinking about just how lovely the docks precinct really is.  With the Taste Festival and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race about to come around again, I thought you might like to see some of the Hobart waterfront photos I’ve collected over the past few years.  Nothing as snazzy as those taken by professional tourism photographers, but they tell a story just the same.

Captain Fell's Historic Ferries have been a constant on the Hobart waterfront

Hobart Waterfront: Picture Perfect!

The May Queen, an 1867 trading ketch, is moored at the Hobart docks.  She belongs to the Maritime Museum of Tasmania.  The floating exhibit is sometimes open for inspection during the warmer months, but is easily visible from the street.

The May Queen, the vessel belonging to the Maritime Museum of Tasmania

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is held on the Hobart waterfront every two years.  The next event is scheduled for February 2013, when historic Sullivans Cove will again become a hive of activity.  Wooden boats of all shapes and sizes, along with model boats, trade exhibitions and the usual collection of festival stalls and demonstrations will frequent the city.

Australian Wooden Boat Festival, a bi-annual Hobart waterfront event (Photo by Mike Fry)

Thousands of Australian and international tourists descend on the Hobart waterfront, when the cruise ships come to town over the summer months.  Often visiting Burnie and Port Arthur en route to Hobart, the passengers give the tourism industry a real boost.  Bus-loads of visitors take off to the Huon Valley, the Coal River Valley and the Derwent Valley…  eating & drinking; shopping and spending their way around.

During cruise-ship season, the Hobart waterfront plays hosts to thousands of international tourists

If you don’t own your own kayak, but you’d like to go for a paddle on the Derwent River, there are options available to you.  Either hire a kayak from an outdoor adventure supply company, or join a guided trip with a tour company.

Hire a kayak and see the Hobart waterfront from a different perspective

Wild Thing Adventures is one of the options offered by tour company Hobart Cruises.  Tempting, but we opted for the more sedate, leisurely Peppermint Bay lunch cruise on a luxury catamaran to Woodbridge.

Get in touch with your wild side, and take an adventure ride with Hobart Tours

Visit the Hobart waterfront at the conclusion of the Sydney to Hobart race and be amazed by the size of the yachts.  Competitors join in the festivities and swap war stories!  The colour and grandeur of the boats on Constitution Dock add to the atmosphere, while the Taste Festival also draws a crowd.  (See our article about 2011 Rolex Sydney Hobart line honours winner, Investec Loyal.)

Loyal, one of the Sydney to Hobart yachts resting at Constitution Dock at the finish of the race

Looking for a place to eat with a nice view on the side?  Elizabeth Street Pier is one option, but Hobart restaurants are many and varied.  From a casual lunch to an up-market dinner, the Hobart waterfront can cater for a wide range of tastes.

Dining on the Hobart waterfront is a real pleasure, with a great deal of choice

From one extreme to the other!  On the one hand, a tall ship sailing experience on the Hobart waterfront, gliding up and down the Derwent River.  Also docked in Hobart to take on supplies, is the Aurora Australis, the flagship of Australian Antarctic missions.

The Aurora Australis docks in Hobart to take on supplies for Antarctic voyages

While fishing boats make up a large proportion of vessels moored at the marina, luxury cruisers and large catamarans are not uncommon.  And if you can sail anywhere you like, why wouldn’t you choose the Hobart waterfront?  It seems like a pretty good spot to me!

The Hobart waterfront: magic in any weather!

For the rest of us who don’t own our own boats, the yellow Hobart water taxi might be an option.  If you’re looking for a way to travel from the Hobart waterfront to Bellerive (to Blundstone Arena for the cricket, for example) a boat ride would add to the experience.

Want a unique way to travel by taxi? Hobart to Bellerive via the Derwent river!

Also refueling before heading to the Antarctic, the Steve Irwin (a sister ship to the Bob Barker) sometimes docks in Hobart.  The Sea Shepherd anti-whaling organisation occasionally allow the public to tour the ships for a gold-coin donation to raise funds for their environmental campaigns.

The Steve Irwin refuels in Hobart for the fight with the whalers

Attention budding photographers!  If you have a photo of the
Hobart waterfront that you’d like to share with the world
contact Think Tasmania and we’ll make it happen.

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Map: Hobart Waterfront…

We arranged a cruise on the Peppermint Bay II to write this review for Think Tasmania.  We thought it would be a good day out; one of the better days on our schedule, in fact.  But in reality, we were blown away by the experience.

This cruise in one word?  Fantastic, fabulous, amazing…  choose any of those!  And here’s a few more words (and pictures):

Peppermint Bay II Luxury Catamaran, Brooke Street Pier Hobart

Peppermint Bay Cruise

After booking our tour through Peppermint Bay Cruises, we departed from Sullivans Cove.   The friendly staff provided a voucher to park the car nearby for $8/day.   They also confirmed dietary requirements for lunch.

Fabulous Peppermint Bay Crew: Alex, Rob & Tom

Boarding commenced at 11:15am, and within 15 minutes we were motoring in the 23 metre catamaran named the Peppermint Bay II.  Away from the Princes Wharf, home of the Taste Festival, and out towards the Wrest Point Casino in Sandy Bay.

Wrest Point Casino Sandy Bay (from Peppermint Bay Cruise)

Luxury Catamaran

The first thing that impressed me about the inside of the luxury catamaran, was the variety of seating options.  We had window seats which gave a beautiful view through the picture windows, and I can only imagine how special the view from the captains upper deck must have been.  But if you’re travelling in a group or with children, they have family lounges, which are curved around a table for drawing or drinks, slightly raised for optimum viewing.  (Next time, kids – I promise!!)

Good views from the Peppermint Bay Family Lounges

To make the most of the occasion, we thought it essential to sample some of the boutique beers from the on-board galley.  The apple-accented Huon brew from the Two Metre Tall Company in New Norfolk – one of the Galley Beers of the Week – got the thumbs up by the time we cruised passed the Taroona Shot Tower and slowed for photos of the impressive Alum Cliffs.  We even sampled the delicious white chocolate and raspberry biscuits for morning tea.  Research!

Peppermint Bay Cruise: Hobart to Woodbridge via Taroona

Sea Shepherd

Captain Peter took a slight deviation from the usual route when he spotted the Sea Shepherd anti-whaling vessel heading off towards the Antarctica.  The powerful engines were ramped up, and we sped towards them for a supportive wave, which their crew returned to us.

There are several decks to explore on the Peppermint Bay II, so we ventured right to the top at this point – just as we turned across the wake from the Sea Shepherd and headed back into a strong breeze.

Peppermint Bay: encounter with Bob Barker's Sea Shepherd

Despite my previously stated aversion to boats and sea-faring activities, it was quite exhilarating being outside.  Wind in the hair and all that.  The other passengers seems to enjoy the on-board camaraderie judging by the amount of laughter.  And we all applauded the trio of young ladies who managed to conquer the top deck without spilling a drop from their wine glasses.  Of course, the galley had plenty more…

The Peppermint Bay galley stocks wine, beer and snacks

Aquamarine Activity

Back in the calm waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel between Bruny Island and Tinderbox, we paused to drop an underwater camera into the marine sanctuary.  We turned our attention to the TV screens inside and were treated to a lesson about the fish and colourful seaweed living below the surface.

Meanwhile, the windows had another rinse with fresh water, just to ensure our views to the majestic scenery remained clear.  How considerate is that?

Windows get washed throughout the Peppermint Bay Cruise

More marine experiences were in store as we continued on towards Woodbridge, past the salmon farms.  We could see the fish jumping from their aquatic pens; and our appetites started to jump accordingly!  So a welcome stop-over to collect lunch from Peppermint Bay was next on the agenda.

Peppermint Bay lunch: from the Tassal Salmon Ponds

Lunch from Peppermint Bay Restaurant, Woodbridge

Briefly docking the luxury catamaran, a golf cart with a trailer was waiting on the jetty for the crew to collect the freshly prepared, local produce.  I have to admit, I had made an assumption about lunch before booking that proved to be wrong.  I thought passengers would be presented with a communal buffet, but the award-winning Tasmanian restaurant caters for individuals taking into account all dietary requirements.  If you prefer, you can even disembark to dine ashore.

Collecting a gourmet lunch from the Peppermint Bay

But we stayed aboard and left the bay (named after the peppermint gum trees that supplied firewood to settlers), turned down our tray tables and with great anticipation, opened our lunch boxes.  Between the two of us we had an oyster, some potato, spinach & orange salad, quiche, olives, feta cheese, stuffed vine leaves, marinated artichoke, mushrooms, cured meats & salmon, pickles, radish and a little pate.  With the Peppermint Bay now converted to a floating restaurant and cruising slowly about Bruny Island, we have to say that lunch was a pretty good experience.

Lunch is served aboard the Peppermint Bay (or in the dining room)

The following hour was spent in Woodbridge, wandering through the tiny village and checking out the providore and gardens surrounding the Peppermint Bay restaurant.  We bought a slice of chocolate, whisky & raisin cake; and a pear & raspberry muffin (on the pretense of having a souvenir for the kids).  But sadly the cakes didn’t make it home.  We did tell the kids how delicious they were, though!!

The restaurant, providore and grounds at Peppermint Bay

Bruny Island, Bellerive & Tasman Bridge

With the sun streaming through the windows, it was very tempting to close the eyes and snooze through the journey home, but there was still too much interesting commentary to sleep.  We passed the Mirambeena vehicle ferry on one of its daily runs from Kettering to Bruny Island, all the while hearing from our guide about the French exploration of Tasmania.  Alex, on the microphone throughout the trip, gave us an insight into the history and marine life of the local area – all from memory and very well explained.

Peppermint Bay II meeting the Bruny Island Ferry

All too soon we were returning via the Eastern Shore, past the communities of South Arm and O’Possum Bay, and then Bellerive Oval – home of the Tassie Tigers cricket team.  On under the Tasman Bridge, where we heard about the 1975 collapse disaster and the changes to maritime safety implemented since.  And then just when we thought all the fun was over and we were heading back to Sullivans Cove…

Bellerive Oval & the Tasman Bridge from the Peppermint Bay II

Dolphins Greet the Peppermint Bay Cruise!

Thank goodness the Peppermint Bay II is well balanced, because once the Captain mentioned dolphins, we all (very rudely) abandoned Alex and his commentary and ran outdoors to get a better glimpse.  Probably more interested in catching some squid than performing for a crowd, the dolphins eventually swam near the boat and we had a good look at them.  Without too much effort, they had a whole boat-load of people awestruck.  And between us, I imagine we took quite a lot of photos!

Sighting dolphins from the Peppermint Bay - how exciting!!

Sailing daily from Brooke Street Pier December – March 11:30 – 4:30
See the Peppermint Bay website for April – November sailing schedule
Seats range in price from $58 – $168 and include a gourmet lunch

Peppermint Bay Cruises also operate Wild Thing Adventures & Bruny Wildlife Adventure Tours.  After the day we had on our cruise, I imagine they would also be good value.  But of course we’ll need to confirm that first-hand, and get back to you!

Cruises in Hobart: Peppermint Bay & Wild Thing Adventures

The writer was a guest of Peppermint Bay Cruises.

Map: Peppermint Bay Cruise…

Restaurants in Tasmania:  Sample Case T42

As far as restaurants in Tasmania go… they are an absolute blessing for diners.  You can enjoy some of the finest produce in the world, that’s a given.  But my favourite part of eating out?  A stunning location that can turn a meal into an occasion.

Great views from restaurants in Tasmania - Aurora Australis

Tavern 42 Degrees South

Recently, some of the team were lucky enough to dine at one of the nicest restaurants in Tasmania.  Referred to as T42 and located on Hobart’s Elizabeth Street Pier, we lobbed there (no booking, bit naughty) after a trip to the snow on Mt Wellington.

Despite the recent Tasmanian snowfalls, the weather was actually pretty decent.  We chose an inside window seat, but there were plenty of relaxed patrons enjoying the spring weather along the water’s edge.

Experienced, friendly staff at waterfront restaurants in Tasmania

Restaurants in Tasmania… The Food

So how was the food?  That’s a fairly significant question when paying for a meal.  Answer:  our meals were perfect for the occasion (which was celebrating the snow near Hobart)!

Between us we ordered a spicy lamb burger, some grilled salmon and a chicken dish from the specials menu, which changes regularly and is dictated by the seasonal produce available.  The accompaniments were varied …and resulted in a lot of swapping for taste testing.

…and The Price at T42

The prices were reasonable (about $20-$25 for a main meal) and we lashed out on a shared chocolate brownie for dessert.  It was very yummy, and my sharing skills were severely stretched.

But T42 has been operating successfully for more than ten years and is open 7 days from breakfast until late, so there will be plenty of other opportunities.  The coffee was also good – Ita Buttrose was at the next table, and she seemed happy enough with her coffee too!!

Usually you would expect to pay a premium for a table by the water’s edge – but that didn’t seem to apply at Tavern 42 Degrees South (and you couldn’t get tables any closer to the edge than theirs!)

The lucky restaurants in Tasmania boast waterfront locations

What about the T42 Service?

The staff were all extremely friendly; I was particularly impressed by their attitude toward my 10-year-old.  Not all restaurants (in Tasmania or anywhere) welcome children with open arms, but T42 passed that “test” with flying colours.

They also have one of the nicest locations you could possibly want, with the dining room running the entire width of the pier, giving you views to the waterfront on either side.  P&O’s massive orange beast (Aurora Australis) was docked on one side; the other was filled with some enviable sailing and fishing boats.

Waterside view from T42 Restaurant in Tasmania

Tavern: Elizabeth Street Pier Location

Elizabeth Street runs through the centre of Hobart’s CBD and contains the city’s shopping mall.  The Pier section of Elizabeth Street continues past Franklin Wharf, jutting out into Sullivans Cove.  On one side is Castray Esplanade, where Saturday shoppers can enjoy the Salamanca Market.  Hunter Street & Victoria Dock round out the wharf section, location of the former IXL jam factory building.

The Hobart Salamanca and wharf area also hosts some of the other fabulous restaurants in Tasmania.

From Tavern 42 Degrees South towards IXL Jam Factory

Elizabeth Street Pier & Hobart Docks

Aside from the restaurants and hotel accommodation on the waterfront, Hobart’s Constitution Dock welcomes the sailors from the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race.  Arriving in the southern-most Australian capital in late December each year (after departing Sydney on Boxing Day), the scene is one of great celebration and excitement.

But you don’t need a major international maritime event as an excuse to enjoy a quiet drink from the bar at T42.  While we were enjoying lunch, a large group from a sailing tour disembarked, grabbed a seat and bought a drink.  I must say, they looked right at home in no time!

Bonus marina locations for some restaurants in Tasmania

Tavern 42 Degrees South can be found on the ground level
Elizabeth Street Pier in Hobart Tasmania
for bookings phone 03 6224 7742

Map: T42 Elizabeth Street Pier Hobart Tasmania…

Surfing in Tasmania.   What are the Options?

Surfing in Tasmania…  here’s a few points of interest.  Living in Tasmania presents you with many an opportunity to go surfing.  It’s an island. There’s lots of coastline!!  So in practically any direction, you can travel to a beach with waves to challenge your ability to stand on a board while the ocean rocks and rolls beneath you. 

Surf Life Saving:  Basic Training

It might be fun, but be cautious.  Swimming between the flags on a patrolled beach is one thing, but it’s still a great idea for kids to learn about keeping themselves safe.  Big swells, rips and rocks can end in drama for the unsuspecting, so a little education is a very good investment.  One place to get that surf training is at Clifton Beach in southern Tasmania.

Surf Life Saving clubs patrol some beaches in Tasmania

Surfing in Tasmania:  Clifton Beach

The Clifton Beach Surf Life Saving Club is about 30kms south-east of the state capital, Hobart.  Led by a dedicated band of volunteers, they practice and promote water safety awareness on Sunday mornings during the summer months.

Surf life saving instruction prepares for surfing in Tasmania

The kids paddle on boards and get tuition about swimming in the ocean environment.  Combined with activities on the beach sand, the club members definitely get a good workout in terms of fitness.  And judging by the smiles and general banter between the group on the day of my visit – they clearly enjoy the experience.

Surf Schools:  Learn from the Experts

In a state like Tasmania where the waves are a-calling, you might like to get some tips from a surfing expert.  There are numerous surf-schools based around the state, and they offer instruction to all ages and abilities.  I don’t know if there’s any guarantees about getting you “shredding”, but they can supply wet suits and boards with a bit of advance notice.

Surfing in Tasmania at South Coast Surf School

Gift certificates for a surfing class are popular at Christmas, when the weather is at its warmest in Tassie.  But I did mention wet suits, and you have to be prepared for the water to be cold.  Tasmania is way south of the equator and a lot closer to the Antarctic, remember.

To contact the South Coast Surf School,
call Pat Fasnacht on (03) 6248 9895 or 0400 489 895

Surf Forecast: Make Your Own Way

Ok, so now  you’ve had the lessons?  Check the surf forecast,  grab your surfboard and drive off to the beach that suits you!  It always amazes me that the grapevine is so efficient for the surfing community.  When the waves are on, the word goes out, and the dudes roll up.  How cool is that?

Surfing in Tasmania at Clifton Beach, good for beginners

The internet site CoastView.com.au can give you more than just a surf forecast or weather report.  They actually have web cameras posted at beaches around the island.  I guess that’s handy if you have a day off.  But torture if you’re stuck in the office, watching an awesome beach break on your computer!!

Shipstern Bluff:  For Those That Dare!!

Now, I did mention seriously BIG waves.  Southern Tasmania is home to Australia’s “heaviest” wave (that’s a good thing if you’re a surfer).  Also known as Devil’s Point, Shipstern Bluff is accessed near Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula.  Riding the massive waves involves either a long bushwalk or a boat, and some serious deep breathing, I would imagine.

Proving that Shipstern is not the only killer break in Tassie, the front page of The Mercury (Hobart’s local newspaper) recently published a photo of a professional surfer taking on the mountainous seas near Bicheno, on the state’s east coast.  Unfortunately, the seas won that particular battle, dumping the surfer onto his back on the rocks.  His bones might have been broken, but his spirit wasn’t and after a good, long recovery, he’ll be out there again.  Crazy!

Shaun Wallbank, Mercury Correspondent (Photo by Samuel Shelley)

Surf photos that emerge from “Shippies” are spectacular, and even if you’re not into surfing in Tasmania (or anywhere else), you can’t help but be impressed by the photography.  These samples come from Samuel Shelley – Surfing in Tasmania.  His collection really highlights the majesty of the wild ocean.

Surfing in Tasmania - Shipsterns Bluff (Photo by Samuel Shelley)

Seriously BIG wave surfing in Tasmania (Photo by Samuel Shelley)

So that’s my wrap up of Surfing in Tasmania.  Something for everyone,
from kids with a foam board, to daredevils with a death wish.
What option will you choose?

Map: Clifton Beach Tasmania…

We’ve just been to the Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, because we have a new passion: hobby photography.  We needed a place with lots of things to shoot, and the gardens turned out to be just perfect for the exercise!!

Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

First photo shoot: Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

And of course I just have to write about it for Think Tasmania, because it was such a good experience, I think everyone should go!  Here’s why…

Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: Something for All Ages

Even if you’re not into gardens and plants (or hobby photography!);  there’s huge areas of lawn for kids to run and roll and play.  The winding paths and different garden rooms provide the perfect setting for chasing and hiding.  We saw the steam carousel fired up to maximum speed (although I don’t think it operates every day), perfect for pre-teens and costing $5-00 per rider.

The carousel, surrounded by lawns at the Botanical Gardens

Great Hobart Location

The Sunday picnic is a popular past-time for the local Tasmanian;  Botanical Gardens provide a fantastic setting on the Queens Domain overlooking the Derwent River.  A short walk from Hobart’s city centre, there are tracks that lead the pedestrian to the entrance.

Tasmanian Botanical Gardens & Derwent River

Hobby Photography and Indoor Options

Aside from the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Restaurant, which has a souvenir shop attached, there are several buildings to escape to in the case of inclement weather.

The Conservatory and Cactus House were our favourites and great for the hobby photography.  We even managed to find some splashes of colour in the Fuchsia House, and the Japanese Garden has a lovely, sheltered gazebo with seating.

The Cactus House: great textures for hobby photography

A splash of colour in the Gardens' Fuchsia House

Japanese Bridge in the Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Gardens: Always Changing with the Seasons

I must admit, this visit was not my first to the gardens.  But somehow last time I missed the Lily Pond with its ducks and waterfall area behind.  And it was only upon researching the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens website that I realised I will need to visit again to see the Subantarctic Plant House (can’t believe I missed that!!).

The Lily Pond, with ducks and waterfalls

Almost Free Entry

Needing to re-visit is not such a huge problem.  Entry is free, although I would suggest popping a donation into one of the collection boxes.  It’s definitely worth a few dollars of spare change, and when you consider the history of the garden development (as displayed in Friends Cottage), a few dollars hardly does the attraction justice.

Entrance to Friends Cottage, Botanical Gardens

History of the Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Friends Cottage

Map: Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Hobart…

Hobart: Capital of Tasmania and Heart of the South

Hobart is a beautiful place to visit for an Australian holiday, and a magic place to live.  As with any fabulous city, the highlights are many.  What to include, and more importantly, what to leave out so I don’t write a novel?  So I’ve cheated.  Here are some of my personal images, showing off the natural assets of Hobart…

From Mount Wellington, views over Hobart and nearby beaches.

Tasmania: City and Nature

The city is framed by the Mount Wellington ranges, a stunning backdrop and popular tourist attraction.  The Derwent River is at the heart of the city, providing magnificent views from every angle.  And with the compact nature of Tasmania there is access to national parks directly from Hobart, with equally impressive features.

The Aurora Australis restocks for the Antarctica

Hobart’s Ports & Docks

With its deep harbour and southern location, Hobart is home to Antarctic activities for both Australia and France.

Working in harmony with visiting cruise ships during the summer season, and frequently host to anti-whaling vessels, the busy seaport gives the small city an interesting focal point.

Winter rainbow over the docks in Hobart

Tasmania’s Ever Changing Seasons

The weather in Hobart has something for everyone.  Without scaling the heights of summer as common on mainland Australia, the temperate climate produces a range of pleasant weather.  During summer, longs hours of sunlight encourage outdoor adventure, while Mount Wellington is postcard perfect with snow-capped peaks during winter.

Saturday market at Salamanca Place in Hobart

Hobart, History & Heritage

As Australia’s second oldest city, established as part of the penal colony in 1803, Hobart has some magnificent stories to tell.  Sandstone buildings once used as factories along the wharf, now feature in the city’s tourism and provide a unique setting for modern-day markets like Salamanca.

Double Decker tour bus in Hobart

Compact Travel

Hobart is small in size – but that’s a good thing!  With everything convenient and easy to access, schedules can be filled rather than the fuel tank.  Even without a schedule, armed with a map of the city and a sense of discovery, the pedestrian can enjoy the sights with a minimal commute.

Boats sailing at Bellerive, Hobart

Water Views & Water Sport

Tasmania’s capital makes the most of the river and beaches laid at the front door.  From nippers at the beach to international sailors in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, everyone is welcome to participate.  And if you don’t want to join in, spectators have the best vantage point and can enjoy a seafood feast from one of the many waterfront eateries.

One form of public transport and touring - the Hobart water taxi.

Hobart plus… Optional Extras

By land or sea, you can visit wildlife at Bruny Island, the convict settlement at Port Arthur or the Cadbury chocolate factory at Claremont.  And all from the one base within a comfortable day of travel.

For more information, visit the Hobart Travel Centre site.

Map: Hobart Tasmania…

The Tasmanian Museum.  I would suggest it’s one of the best attractions to visit in Hobart.  But who’s going to believe me?

The Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

Not wanting to show bias to my personal favourites, I enlisted the assistance of two junior researchers.  Their job was to judge if I was just a geek (their word), or my suggestion really held up.

Entrance to the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

There is a school holiday program conducted at the museum, but in the interests of a fair trial, my group went in to tackle the exhibits head on.  The results, I’m happy to report, were unanimous and support my original assessment – thumbs up for the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart.  Here’s our short-list of favourites, in no particular order:

Tasmanian Aboriginal Gallery

The collection is called Ningenneh Tunapry, which translates to mean “give knowledge and understanding”.  It is essentially a celebration of  indigenous history and culture, including a really big bark canoe!  There is another room dedicated to Tasmanian Aboriginals on the first floor.

Zoology Gallery

This is where you get to touch stuff – usually frowned upon, for obvious reasons.  But in here:  encouraged!!  There’s all sorts of animal skins and furs to pat and stroke, as well as glass display cabinets filled with snakes, spiders and other creepy crawlies.  There’s mounted birds in an interactive seascape scene, and the big one – the Tasmanian Tiger display (no, you can’t touch that one).  There’s also video footage of the last captive tiger (they are now extinct) pacing back and forth in his cage, which I found a little disturbing.

Convict Gallery

Following a visit to the Port Arthur convict settlement, this was another reminder of Tasmania’s colonial heritage.  Guns for the uniformed guards;  pick axes and shackles for the prisoners.  There’s lots of historical information displayed if you have the time and opportunity to read it.

TMAG - Guard Portrait displayed in Convict Gallery

Islands to Ice Exhibition

Wow!  This is a fantastic, interactive room that bombards the senses.  The exhibit is everything Antarctica:  a 3D movie experience, oceans and currents, bird and sea-life displays and the deal breaker:  a big, wet patch of ice that you can stick your hands on to melt patterns.  Really!

Interactive Ice Sculpture at the Tasmanian Museum

If you only have time to visit one exhibit, make it the
Islands to Ice room at the Tasmanian Museum.

Antarctica bird-life from the Islands to Ice Exhibit

The art gallery section often has photographic displays – a personal preference of mine.  I love those amazing black and white, formal “old-time” photos standing proudly next to more contemporary works.  But that’s just me being all geeky.  Anyway…

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) facts:

• open daily 10am-5pm (except Good Friday, Christmas & ANZAC Days)
• the main entrance is via Macquarie Street, Hobart
• located between the CBD and Constitution Dock
• metered parking is available nearby, entry via courtyard cafe
• general admission is free (donations always welcome)
• special, touring exhibits may charge individual fees*
• all the essentials are catered for: cafe, shop, cloak room, toilets
• wheelchairs are available from the information desk
• guided tours are provided periodically free of charge

The guided tour is on my to-do list;  so far my game plan has been to wander aimlessly on my own.  Actually to be honest, the wandering is usually rushing, to see as much as possible in the pinch of time I have in between other engagements.  This is both good and bad, because:

(a) there’s always things to come back to see next time around; but

(b) I always leave wishing I had more time at the Tasmanian Museum right now!!

Oceans & Currents on Display in the Islands to Ice Exhibit

*For more information about special exhibits, visit the
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery site.

Map: Tasmanian Museum Hobart…