A few days in Geeveston.........

Once the shopping was done we took a walk through the local park at New Norfolk.  Arthur Square Gardens was a lovely place to stop for a moment and the unusual fountain made a nice centrepiece.

We left soon after and made our way further south to the Huon Valley.  To do this we had to pass through a very busy Hobart ( yes, I know it's not a tiny town but needs must) and were very glad to come out the other side.  Once clear of the traffic again we enjoyed the drive to Huonville where we stopped for a short while to have a look at the carvings beside the Huon River.

On the move again we passed through the tiny town of Franklin where the views across the Huon River are just delightful.  Soon after we were arriving in the little township of Geeveston and made our way to Memorial Park where we we going to camp for the next four days.  It was the long weekend here in Tasmania and so we thought we should settle somewhere early or we might not get in anywhere.

Timing our arrival perfectly we found a spot right on the banks of the Kermandie River and here we settled in and were very comfortable.  And yes it did get busy so we made the right decision.  This beautiful little campsite is provided by the Geeveston Ex-Servicemens and Womens Club and made available to campers for a donation.  Of course a drink or two or dinner on Friday nights counts as a donation and of course I didn't need convincing not to cook on Friday night.

While most of us camped there came and went within a few days, there were a number of 'gypsies' who seemed to have settled in and had been there since early December.  Is this taking advantage of a very generous community or is it adding colour to the area.  Who knows the answer but they were nice enough folk and we certainly enjoyed our few days there.  

Once again the platypus was said to play daily right in front of our van.  Yes, you guessed it.  Never a sight of it the whole time we were there.  And four more over the road on the Platypus Walk.  Yeah right!  Still it kept us busy and quiet as we watched for them each day.  The lovely little robins made up for it though.

From Geeveston it seemed to be a good idea to drive further south to the end of the road.  We did this and found ourselves at Cockle Creek.  This is the Southernmost point you can drive to in Australia and once there the short walk takes you to the Whale Sculpture where the most stunning views across Recherche Bay make it all worthwhile.

At this point the sign tells us that you are closer to Antarctica than you are to Cairns.  And a lot colder too I can tell you.

These tiny little communities along the road, Cockle Creek, Catamaran, Moss Glen and others seem to be little fishing havens complete with gorgeous sea views on one side and the National Park behind.  We stopped a few times seeing views across Recherche Bay from different locations.  All stunning.

On the way back we stopped for lunch at Ida Bay.  Just in time to see the little train leaving.  We didn't join it but enjoyed our lunch and moved on to Southport and up to Dover where we enjoyed the views over Port Esperance.  From here we headed back home to Geeveston and dinner at the club.

The next morning we had a wander around the streets of Geeveston and a look in the local 'i'.  Like Huonville there are many carved statues through the streets all depicting local identities or places.  They are really well done and certainly add to the quaintness of this little village. 

It was only as we wandered we realised there was one major building missing from this town - there was no Pub!  Reading one of the signs we were to discover that Geeveston began life as a Temperance Town and has never had a Pub.  I guess that is why our little club and The Kermandie Hotel just down the road did so well.

That afternoon we ventured a little further afield as we made our way back to Huonville and along the other side of the Huon River to Cygnet.  Another tiny little town with a few lovely old buildings along the Main Street.  As we passed through rolling hills complete with cows and sheep I was surprised to find an even tinier town called Woodstock.  I don't think it had anything to do with it's more famous US counterpart.

Back at home we waited in vain for that pesky platypus once again but Bill had fun with the pretty little birds instead.  The next day we took in a little market in town, had a walk through Platypus Park along the Kermandie River, went in search of some long lost relatives in a couple of old cemeteries.  No, we didn't find them.  And came home past this lovely little Community Church.

Back at home it was time to prepare for tomorrow's departure, we had enjoyed our time out from the long weekend crowds and now it was time to tour again.  Next stop - Bruny Island

until then..........

Tasmania - Tiny towns and National Parks.....

We said farewell to Lake King William and made our way South to Mt Field National Park where we were going to see Russell Falls.  On the way we stopped at Tarraleah and found a little town whose existence came about to house the workers for one of the first Hydro Electric Schemes.

 The tiny town is immaculate and has a real touch of 'The Stepford Wives' about it as all the houses are identical and painted in the same way with different colours.  We did not see a soul other than tourists and wondered if they were inhabited or rentals.  We have since found out the entire estate is Art Deco accommodation.   Tarraleah's other claim to fame is that it is home to the highest golf course in Australia.  Who knew!

We continued on with a short stop at Ouse to pick up some bread and then we followed the road around to cross Lake Meadowbank and soon after we were arriving at Left of Field, a quirky campground up the road from Mt Field National Park, just 8 km out of the tiny town of Westerway.    

We settled in and my first job was the washing which I took care of very quickly and once it was blowing in the wind we walked out the back gate and down to the Nive River where we were told we  might see the resident platypus.  No luck, though Bill did enjoy the gorgeous Red Robin who joined us on our walk.

The next morning we woke to a chilly but fine day and we drove back down the road to Westerway were we bought some fuel, yummy raspberries and enjoyed a coffee at the Possum Shed Cafe.  We met Poppy the new puppy here but did not see Flossy, their resident Platypus, either.  With all that taken care of it was time to go exploring. 

We set off and walked into the National Park entrance from Left of Field and then followed the path up to Russell Falls.  On the way Bill found this adorable little Pink Robin which seemed intent on accompanying us on our way up the path.  We were interested to read that this beautiful national park had been added to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area in 2013.  

Around one more corner and there was our 'Wow' moment.  Russell Falls are just beautiful and such a delight to be here enjoying nature at its best.  We spent some time here before continuing to climb the many steps up to Horseshoe Falls.  While lovely, they were not nearly as spectacular as Russell Falls below but then that may have something to do with the lower rainfall Tasmania has experienced this year.

Back on flat ground we followed the track back and found these gorgeous little Pademelons relaxing in the undergrowth.  After seeing so many of these little guys flattened on the road it was lovely to see these ones safe and well.

We stopped to eat a sandwich and as we made our way back to our campsite we found a very photogenic and accommodating Echidna.  Bill took lots of pictures and this is one of my favourites.  A very cute little guy.  And our walk to the river that evening has left us thinking that this platypus is an urban myth! Still no luck, maybe tomorrow.

The next morning we set off early to Strathgordon to see Lake Pedder and the Gordon Dam.  Some of the roads up there had been closed due to the terrible fires burning since January but have just been reopened this week.  The scenery was definitely divided into two halves as we travelled through the heavily forested Maydena Range before coming out and looking across the button grass plains to the incredible and dramatic Sawback Range.  

Here you could see the evidence of the recent fires but already with the little rain here there was a green tinge on the ground.  Just amazing how quickly nature gets on with rebuilding.  Soon after we were standing on a hillside looking over the spectacular Lake Pedder.  So interesting to read that the original lake is in fact still under all that water.  

We drove into the very tiny town of Strathgordon but found no sign of life at all and so continued on to the end of the road at the Gordon Dam.  The massive arch wall across The Gordon River is a truly spectacular sight and one I was happy to see from above.  Bill however trudged down the 196 steps to walk along the dam wall and get some amazing pictures.  Of course the downside of this was he had to climb back up the 196 steps - yes, he counted them!

We drove down to the shores of Lake Gordon and here you can see just how low the water level is.  There hasn't been water up to the high water mark for many years.  A very sad sight from this location.

We returned back the way we came but turned off into the World Heritage Area of The Styx Valley.  It is home to some of the tallest trees in the world and we were here to see 'The Big Tree' and we were not disappointed.  At 87 metres tall and 21 metres around this 400 year old tree is a must see if you are passing through.  And just a little further along the track is 'The Bigger Tree' and it is!  It certainly makes you feel very small as you stand beside these forest giants.

Leaving the trees behind we walked down the meandering track to the beautifully tranquil Styx River.  The tea coloured river was so clean and clear you could count the rocks on the riverbed here.

Back in the car we made our way further into the forest to find 'The Chapel Tree'.  Listed on Tasmania's Giant Tree register for its massive volume ( as opposed to its height) the Chapel Tree is a classic old growth Swamp Gum (eucalyptus regnans).  The tree is decaying from the top down and the inside out leaving a massive hollow trunk that you can walk inside.  Large enough to hold many people this hollow tree has hosted many events including a choral performance and a blessing by the Gyuto monks from Tibet.

We made our way back home from here and tried once more to find that pesky platypus but again with no luck.  I know they are elusive creatures, but you would think they would be thrilled to star in Rhossietalk, wouldn't you.  Obviously no one has told the platypus how fortunate they would be.  Ah well, perhaps another river on another day.  

The next morning it was time to pack up and hit the road again. We had really enjoyed our time here in this cute little campground and we wish Adrian every success as he continues to fine tune Left of Field.

We continued to make our way south as we headed for New Norfolk where it was time to top up the cupboards again.  Not as small a town as we had been in but not too big and the Supermarket was just what we needed.  On the way we made just one stop near Plenty when Bill noticed a large number of birds on the rocks in the River Derwent.  Apparently these Kelp Gulls were after the trout that inhabit this part of the river.

On our arrival in New Norfolk we made our way to Tymwald Park, the local sports ground, where we free camped for the night.  There were a number of vans there already and a few more came in after us but room for all and walking distance to town.  What more could we want.

The next morning we did the shopping and had a walk through the lovely park before we hit the road once more on our way further south.  We are going to hang out in Geeveston for the long weekend.

until next time.......

It's March - The van is packed, we're ready to roll.......

With just two days left in February we set off for our next adventure to see some more of this wonderful country we live in.  This time we were crossing the water and going to explore The Apple Isle for the next six weeks.  But first we had to get to Station Pier in Port Melbourne to catch the Spirit of Tasmania to bring us and our home across Bass Strait.

We had chosen a Day Sail and had to be at the Pier ready to line up between 6.00 and 8.15am.  That would mean an extremely early wake up time from home so instead we opted to drive down on Sunday and camp somewhere overnight.  Along the way we stopped in to say hello to Suzanne, Bryce and the gorgeous Alexandra.  We enjoyed a couple of hours catching up and enjoying their company before we continued on our way to find a home for the night.

At Port Melbourne we found many vans camped along the side of the road next to the beach so we joined them here and enjoyed our seaside view for the night.  We walked along the boardwalk to Station Pier and were just in time to see the ferry arrive from Tasmania.  We watched the many people board as it got ready for the return journey that night.  Back at our van we spent a quiet night by the roadside and were up early the next morning for our adventure to begin.

Boarding seemed to take forever and after being checked and cleared for gas, fruit and vegetables, honey and that no one was hiding under the bed or in the shower - yes really - it was finally our turn to drive on board.  At least by being in the last lot on we were in the first lot off at the other end - bonus!  While we waited in the queue we were joined by many motorcycles and met Russell, one of the Ulysses Members going over for the AGM at Launcesten.  He was a friendly chap and we kept each other entertained for most of the trip over.  Just as we left another large cruise ship docked.  Made us look a little small.

The Spirit of Tasmania has been refurbished since our last trip in 2006 and was very comfortable.  As we were sailing in the day we just bought standard tickets and found comfy seats wherever we went.  The ten hours passed quite easily with a few walks around, coffee, lunch and chatting with Russell and before we knew it we had sailed up the Mersey River and were docking in Devonport.

Once off the ferry we drove straight around to our home for the next two nights, Mersey Bluff Caravan Park, and discovered a very chilly, windy little neck of the woods.  We set up quickly and then found a shop so as to buy something for dinner, came home and cooked it and not to much later were sound asleep in bed.  Day one was done.

The next morning we found the weather was still cold and windy with a little drizzle but the forecast said it would pass so we got ready and left for Ulverstone where we were visiting friends for coffee.  It was great to catch up with Avril and Ian again and we enjoyed our visit but now it was time to explore a little.  We drove inland through Forth and up to Braddons Lookout where we had a lovely view across the lush green fields below.  

Next it was time to find a supermarket and fill the fridge.  Fruit, vegetables, fish and meat were purchased and now we can travel and cook once more.  We had a look at the city centre of Devonport and enjoyed lunch in a cute retro cafe called Stonies.  

Back at Mersey Bluff the sun was shining though the wind was still there and we walked down to the beach to watch the Surf Lifesaving kids doing their drills etc.  No way would I be in that water but they seemed to be loving it.  We walked along the track to the lookout on the Bluff and then continued on up to the lighthouse at the top.  Back at home we settled in for a quiet night planning which way to head the next morning.

Last time we saw the North Coast and a lot of the West so this time we had decided to head south through the middle and so the next morning we started our journey stopping first at Sheffield where we enjoyed a few hours wandering around town looking at the many murals it is famous for.  The very tidy town is a work of art and further enhanced by the very dramatic backdrop of Mt Roland in the distance.  We enjoyed our time there but now we had to move on to find a home for the night.

Not too far down the road we came to the little village of Chudleigh and decided the $5 fee to stay in the show grounds was a good deal and before long we were settled in and enjoying the sunshine.  

Just across the road was the Honey Shop and we walked over to check it out.  Pure heaven if you like honey!  Lots to taste and even more to buy and we left with a jar of Blackberry Honey, a Honey Salad dressing and  Leatherwood Honey ice cream each - Yum.

The next morning we continued on our way and our next stop was just a short distance away in Deloraine.  This lovely town is in The Meander Valley and is bisected by the very picturesque Meander River running through it.  

We ate our lunch here in Rotary Park with the company of some Tasmanian Native Hens and the many ducks.  Along the river banks are a number of sculptures as well as many more smaller ones in the main streets.

Before we stopped for lunch we called in to the 'information centre' and stopped here to see the famous Silk Art Mural.  These four panels have been quilted, appliquéd, stitched, knitted and so much more over eight years showing the four seasons in The Meander Valley.  Truly beautiful!

We also stayed and visited the folk museum here as well and enjoyed our look back in time both inside and outside the house.  A very well put together little museum and a lovely way to spend a couple of hours.

Leaving Deloraine we continued south towards Derwent Bridge meaning we had to climb through the Great Western Tiers and not long after we were parked in a large lookout area with fantastic views across two valleys.  We decided this would be a fine back yard for the night and so settled in and enjoyed the view.  A few people stopped to look but no one else stayed so we enjoyed our 'Penthouse Suite' all by ourselves.

We were up before the sun the next day so we could enjoy the sunrise and it didn't disappoint.  Very chilly at first but we soon warmed up as the sun showed itself.  How lucky are we to be able to enjoy these wonderful experiences.

Just a couple of hundred metres and we passed the highest point of the range and then it was down into Miena where we passed along beside The Great Lake.  An amazing body of water in Tasmania's Central Highlands though you can't help but notice how low the water is.  Looking just like our Lake Eildon you can see where the High Water mark is and how much the water has receded during the last three dry seasons Tasmania has had.  And we thought it looked so lush and green compared to home.  Apparently the outcome of some recently much needed rain.  Lets hope this winter is better for them.

From here we drove into Derwent Bridge and found ourselves a home beside one of the little rivers running into King William Lake.  A lovely peaceful spot and so here we will stay while we look at Lake St Claire tomorrow.   But first we will stop in and see the other famous attraction here - The Wall.

This wonderful artwork is a number of Huon Pine Panels which have been carved with stories of Tasmanian Heritage.  The Timberworker, The Hydro Workers, The Early Settlers and the many unique animals and insects of this region have been carved by Greg Duncan.  

While still a work in progress, when finished it will be 100 Metres long and you find it in a purpose built hall.  Unfortunately no cameras are allowed so just the picture of the sculptured eagles from outside but if you are ever here in Derwent Bridge it is an absolute 'Must See'.

The next day we made our way to Lake St Claire and enjoyed a few hours walking the three easy tracks.  Watersmeet, Platypus Bay and The Lakeside tracks are all fairly easy and we enjoyed a few hours communing with nature.  

The lake itself is the deepest lake in Australia and just such a beautiful spot.  The views, from all angles, with the sun glistening on the water were just spectacular and the mountains in the background just set it off completely.  

Back at home while we spent a quiet hour or so by our river we plotted our course for the next few days. Bill found these lovely little Dusky Robins to play with as well.  And so as our first week here in Tasmania comes to a close it has been everything we hoped it would be and we look forward to the next five with excitement.

until next time......