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No. 15 - Ranelagh

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Ranelagh, a charming village in Tasmania's Huon Valley, has a history that reflects its transformation from a remote settlement to a vibrant community. The area was originally known as Victoria until 1891 when it was renamed following the gazettal of Huonville as a town. The fertile soil of the Huon Valley supported the development of orchards and vineyards, making agriculture the backbone of the local economy. In the early 20th century, Ranelagh's proximity to Huonville and Hobart led to its growth as a residential and lifestyle area. The village became a hub for commuters and tourists, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Notable landmarks include the Ranelagh Soldiers' Memorial Hall, opened in 1924 to honor local soldiers who served in World War I, and the heritage-listed Clifton Estate, which once hosted Queen Elizabeth II. Ranelagh is also known for its vibrant community events, such as the annual Huon Show and the Taste of the Huon festival, which celebrate ...
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No. 14 - Huonville

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  Huonville, nestled on the banks of the Huon River in Tasmania's Huon Valley, boasts a rich history that reflects its evolution from a remote settlement to a vibrant agricultural hub. The area was originally inhabited by the Mellukerdee people, one of the First Nations groups of southern Tasmania, who relied on the river's resources for fishing, hunting, and cultural practices. European exploration of the Huon River began in 1792 with Admiral Bruni d'Entrecasteaux's expedition. However, permanent European settlement didn't occur until 1839 when Thomas and William Walton took up a land grant. The dense bush, lack of arable land, and difficult access initially hindered settlement, but by 1853, around 100 people, mostly convicts, lived in the area. The town's growth accelerated with the est ablishment of better transport links, including a track to Hobart in 1855, a coaching service in 1869, and a bridge over the Huon River in 1876. The burgeoning apple industry p...
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No. 13 - Nubeena

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Nubeena, a picturesque village on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula, has a rich history intertwined with the region's convict past and maritime heritage. The area was originally inhabited by the Pydairrerme band of the Oyster Bay tribe before European settlement. The name "Nubeena" itself is believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "place of many waters." In 1827, Governor George Arthur proposed a penal settlement on the Tasman Peninsula due to its strategic location and natural resources. By 1830, the first convicts arrived, and the settlement quickly grew into a significant industrial complex. The town of Nubeena developed as an outstation of Port Arthur, serving as an important convict farming community. The village's maritime history is evident in its network of inlets and bays, which have supported fishing and small-scale industries over the years. Coal mining was once a significant activity in the area, with the ruins of soldiers' barra...
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No. 12 - Ulverstone

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Ulverstone, located on Tasmania's northern coast, has a fascinating history that reflects its growth from a small settlement to a thriving community. The area was first settled by Europeans in 1848 when Andrew Risby and his family arrived from England to develop farmland in what was then a thickly forested wilderness. The Risby family played a significant role in the early development of the region, clearing land and establishing a homestead known as "The Rises". The town's name, Ulverstone, was first used in 1854 when Hugh Ross McKay opened a store in the area. The Leven Post Office opened in 1857 and was renamed Ulverstone Post Office in 1881. The town's growth was further spurred by the timber industry, with timber from the surrounding forests being in high demand during the Victorian gold rush. Ulverstone continued to develop throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the establishment of various businesses, schools, and community facilities. The ...
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No. 11 - Strahan

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The town's development was closely tied to the mining boom in the region. In 1890, a railway was built between Strahan and the mining town of Zeehan, and in 1899, another railway connected Strahan to Queenstown. These railways made Strahan one of Tasmania's busiest ports, with a population of over 2,000 people at its peak. Strahan's importance as a port declined in the mid-20th century as the railway lines were closed down. However, the town quickly adapted and became a popular tourist destination. The stunning natural beauty of Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River, along with attractions like the historic penal settlement on Sarah Island, drew visitors from around the world. In 1983, the proposed Franklin-below-Gordon Dam was stopped due to environmental activism, and the area was declared part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Today, Strahan is known for its heritage railway, boat tours, and its role as a gateway to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers Nationa...
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No. 10 - Zeehan

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The town's European history began in 1642 when Dutch explorer Abel Tasman sighted the Heemskirk and West Coast Ranges. Later, in 1798, George Bass and Matthew Flinders named Mount Zeehan and Mount Heemskirk after Tasman's ships. The discovery of tin at Mount Bischoff in 1871 and silver and lead deposits in 1882 led to a mining boom, and the township of Zeehan was officially established in 1890. By the early 20th century, Zeehan had become Tasmania's third-largest town, boasting a population of 10,000 and a bustling main street over 3.2 kilometers long. The town was known as the "Silver City" and had numerous hotels, pubs, a hospital, and two theaters. However, the mining boom declined after World War I, and by the 1960s, Zeehan had become a ghost town. In recent years, Zeehan has experienced a resurgence thanks to the Renison Bell tin mine, and the town's historical significance is preserved through attractions like the West Coast Heritage Centre and the Gaiet...
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No. 9 - Queenstown

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Queenstown, Tasmania, is a town with a rich history deeply rooted in mining. The area was first explored in 1862 by surveyor Charles Gould, who believed it held potential for gold deposits. In 1881, Irish prospector Cornelius Lynch discovered gold at Lynch Creek, leading to the establishment of the Mount Lyell Gold Mining Company in 1889. The town initially grew around a shanty town named Penghana, which burned down in 1896 and was promptly rebuilt and renamed Queenstown. The Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company, established in 1893, became a significant employer, producing mainly copper. By 1901, Queenstown was Tasmania's third-largest town with a population of 5,051 people. The town experienced several booms and busts, with the mining industry driving much of its economy. The surrounding landscape was heavily impacted by mining activities, resulting in a unique "moonscape" appearance due to tree-felling, sulphur smoke, and fire. The Lyell Highway, connecting Queenstow...
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