Region 1 Launceston and North

Launceston and North (Map

pg 51)

An historic and scenic region with a storied past, Launceston and Tasmania’s north is home to unique villages, heritage estates, hedge-lined country lanes and some of the most remarkable natural areas the state has to offer. It’s also a terrific place in which to indulge in some of the best produce this side of Bass Strait.

Bucket list

Tamar Valley

Sample some of the best wines in one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Rolling hills of vineyards hug the banks of the River Tamar; nature’s bounty offering paddockto-plate cuisine. (Pic Jarrad Seng) establishment of Australia’s first underground sewage and official waste management system. The first surgical use of anesthetics in the southern hemisphere was administered here in 1847 by Dr William Russ Pugh. A bronze statue of Dr Pugh can be found in Prince’s Square, commemorating his lifelong service to medical science.

Best time to visit All year around, but do visit Launceston’s Harvest Market held every Saturday.

Situated at the southern tip of the kanamaluka / River Tamar is the vibrant city of Launceston. Nicknamed Launnie, the town is one of the oldest colonial settlements in Tasmania and home to some impressive stone structures including the water foundation at Prince’s Square.

Things to see and do

Ben Lomond National Park

Drive up the steep mountain road of Jacob’s Ladder, a windy ascent until you reach the alpine plateau. Atop Ben Lomond is a breathtaking panoramic view; a pristine location for downhill skiing in the winter.

Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary

Pat a furry little native (including a Tassie Devil) at this wonderful animal sanctuary, located near Mole Creek. Guided tours are available. (Pic Jarrad Seng)

Launceston was the first town in Australia to use hydroelectricity, thanks to its prime location along the longest river in Tasmania, the South Esk River. This river forms part of the territorial boundary between The North Midlands Nations, in the west, and The Ben Lomond, towards the southeast. The former power plant using the pure force of the South Esk River, the Duck Reach Power Station, ceased operation in 1995. Hydroelectric power was later harnessed at the Trevallyn Hydroelectric Power Station located along the River Tamar.

Another engineering feat of this booming metropolis was the

Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery www.qvmag.tas.gov.au to marvel at the exquisite art exhibition and learn more about Tasmania’s rich history. On the grounds resides the old railway station and rail yards, which can be explored at the Launceston Tramway Museum.

Australian’s famous brewhouse James Boags Brewery www.jamesboag.com. au is located at the heritage-listed Tamar Hotel, a stunning Victorian era structure.

Harvest Market Launceston, convivial, weekly farmers’ market offering produce and food items, plus takeaway eats and live music (Pic Tourism Australia).