EXPLORE OUR NATURAL BEAUTY
& RICH CULTURAL HISTORY
Devonport, located in the North West of Tasmania, is a great base for exploring the natural beauty and cultural history of the region. From the city, visitors can easily access numerous day trips, making it easier to explore the vast array of natural wonders and cultural sites that the area has to offer.
The region is rich in natural beauty, with an abundance of native animals, birds, and flora waiting to be discovered. Whether you have a specific interest in these natural wonders or just enjoy getting out for a walk, Devonport is the perfect destination for an adventure with nature. Some of the best day trips from Devonport include Stanley and Arthur River to the West, Sheffield and Cradle Mountain to the South, and Narawntapu National Park to the East.
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But Devonport is not just about natural beauty - it also has a rich cultural history that is waiting to be explored. For example, TIAGARRA, located in the serene bush and coastal setting of the Mersey Bluff, Devonport, is one of the oldest Aboriginal operated museums and keeping places in Australia. It offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to discover the rich and fascinating history of Australia's Aboriginal culture.
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Another must-visit destination is Home Hill, the family home of Australian Prime Minister Joseph Lyons, his wife Dame Enid Lyons - the first woman elected to Australia's federal parliament - and their 12 children. Today, the elegant homestead remains largely unchanged since Dame Enid last lived there in 1981, complete with her original furnishings and memorabilia. It offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life of one of Australia's most iconic political figures, as well as the opportunity to explore the history and heritage of the region.
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In addition to these cultural destinations, the Bass Strait Maritime Centre is a treasure trove of knowledge, ideas, stories, and memories, providing an unparalleled opportunity to inspire and educate visitors and the community alike. The center's collection serves as a repository of historical artifacts, contributing to the interpretation and preservation of the history and maritime heritage of the Devonport region and its connection with the Bass Strait.
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So, whether you're interested in exploring the natural beauty or the cultural history of the North West of Tasmania, Devonport has something for everyone. All of these natural wonders and cultural sites
are just a stone's throw away, waiting to be discovered and explored.
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EXPLORING NATURE LIKE A LOCAL
TASMANIAN ARBORETUM
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The Tasmanian Arboretum (only 17 minutes to the South), with its 66 hectares of botanical garden, is a beautiful and peaceful landscape where you can find a wide variety of trees of the temperate world. The park is also home to many marsupials such as Bennett's wallabies, possums, quolls, and potoroos. Platypus sightings happen regularly, and the park is home to around 81 species of birds.
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DON RESERVE
For bird lovers and photographers, The Don Reserve (only 5 minutes' drive from the CBD) is an excellent spot to enjoy a peaceful and picturesque bushland reserve. Featuring paved and sawdust walking tracks near and beside the Don River, it is a perfect destination for keen twitchers. Recently, several rare species of birds have been spotted there, including the Sacred Kingfisher and several endangered Swift Parrots that have made their home there this Spring.
LILLICO BEACH
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A short 10 minutes' drive to the West of Devonport, Lillico Beach is a coastal reserve and home to a Little Penguin (also known as Fairy Penguins) colony. From the reserve's viewing platform, you can observe the penguins returning to their burrows each evening after a day of fishing in the open ocean. During the breeding season (September to May) and summer months (mid-December to mid-February), you can find local volunteers and Parks and Wildlife rangers on-site.
HOME HILL
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Australian Prime Minster's
1916 Family Home & Gardens
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Established in 1916, Home Hill in Devonport, Tasmania, was the residence of notable Australian politician Joseph Lyons, his wife Dame Enid Lyons—the first woman in Australia's federal parliament—and their 12 children. Retaining original furnishings and memorabilia, the house offers visitors a remarkable peek into history. Showcasing Dame Enid's distinct style and a beautiful garden, Home Hill is an ideal destination for those interested in history, architecture, or seeking a unique experience. Guided tours offer an immersive journey through the elegantly appointed rooms, each brimming with historical artifacts and intriguing tales. More than a home, Home Hill is a living museum, celebrating the Lyons' legacy and Australian history. Explore and experience the remarkable story of one of Australia's most esteemed political families.
TIAGARRA
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One of Australia's Oldest
Aboriginal Museums
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Established in 1976, TIAGARRA is one of Australia's oldest Aboriginal-operated museums, located amidst the breathtaking wilderness of Mersey Bluff, Devonport, Tasmania. TIAGARRA's substantial collection of artifacts, artwork, and historical documents provides an insightful glimpse into Aboriginal culture. Beyond the collection, TIAGARRA offers programs and workshops aimed to educate and inspire visitors about Australia's first people's history and traditions. With its rich history and immersive natural setting, TIAGARRA stands as an essential destination for those eager to explore the enduring Aboriginal heritage in Australia.
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BASS SRAIGHT MARITIME
Treasure Trove of Knowledge,
Ideas, Stories & Memories
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Located in Devonport, Tasmania, The Bass Strait Maritime Centre is a hub of maritime heritage and education. It preserves and showcases the region's significant maritime history, integral to Tasmania's growth. The center's collection of artifacts and exhibits highlight the Bass Strait's role in local history, showcasing connections with mainland and overseas explorers, traders, and whalers. Educational programs deepen visitors' understanding of the region's maritime legacy. Exhibits include photographs, models, and artifacts, giving unique insights into Devonport and Tasmania's maritime heritage. Regular talks and workshops by experts further enrich the experience. The centre is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and the curious alike.