Border restrictions and lockdowns in other states and territories within Australia are having big impacts on our hospitality and tourism businesses. 

However, Tassie folk are enjoying our beautiful island without the crowds of tourist and are doing our best to support local business. The State Government has helped with a $7.5 million Travel Voucher scheme. Anyone could register to receive $200 towards accommodation and $100 towards attractions. All entrants were put in a ballot and we were fortunate to be successful.

So last weekend we went on a road trip, staying in Launceston to explore the northern part of Tassie. 

We stayed at Peppers Silo Hotel, an unusual building repurposed from grain silos built in the 1960’s. The hotel overlooks the city, the Tamar River Basin and the North Esk River and Riverbend Park.

We explored the city on foot, appreciating the architecture, the history, art and culture in QVMAG (Queen Victoria Museum and Gallery).

We drove to a couple of vineyards, tasting the wines in on the deck on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

We also visited Beaconsfield Gold Mine and Heritage Centre. Gold was first discovered here in 1847. Underground mining began in 1879 with considerable investment and expansion. However, the mine closed in 1914 due to constant flooding. Many of the original buildings now in ruins. In 1980 work began to reopen the mine and the first ore production occurring in 1998. It remained operational until 2012. A 2 week rescue mission to reach 2 miners trapped after an earthquake induced rock collapse made international news in 2006.

Another point of interest, in 1953 Beaconsfield was the first town in Australia to add fluoride to its water supply.