West Tamar Local History
The West Tamar region is located in the northern part of Tasmania, Australia. This area is known for its wonderful scenery, magnificent vineyards, and beautiful parks. The region covers an area of approximately 900 square kilometers, and it comprises of many towns and cities including; Rosevears, Exeter, Riverside, Legana, Grindelwald, Lanena and Beaconsfield. The region is home to over 23,000 residents and provides a perfect mix of rural and urban living.
The West Tamar region is steeped in rich history. It has always been a prominent area in Tasmania, with evidence of early inhabitants dating back to at least 28,000 years. Therefore, the region is rich in natural heritage and cultural history.
Aboriginal tribes were the first to inhabit the Tamar Valley. Known as the Pyemmairrener Aboriginal people, they lived in the area for over 40,000 years before Europeans arrived in Tasmania. They used the Tamar River as a means of transportation, and the area was a crucial resource during the hunting and gathering period. Unfortunately, European settlement and activities have resulted in the loss of much of the area’s Aboriginal heritage and culture.
The region was first explored by Europeans in 1798 when George Bass arrived in the area. The English naval explorer, Matthew Flinders, followed shortly, and it was during this time that the river was named the Tamar River after a British military officer. European settlement of the region began at the start of the 19th century.
One of the most notable features of the region is the Batman Bridge. The bridge spans the Tamar River and was opened in 1968. The Batman Bridge was named after John Batman, a colonist who played a significant role in the colonization of Tasmania and Victoria. The Batman Bridge allowed for easy access across the Tamar River and therefore facilitated trade and commerce.
The West Tamar region is also well known for its farming. In the early years of settlement, the area was mainly used for pastoral farming. However, the fertile soils that lined the Tamar River were ideal for growing crops, particularly apples. The area is even recognized as being the birthplace of Tasmania's apple industry, which still thrives to this day. Furthermore, wineries in the area are recognized internationally for producing outstanding wines.
The region’s mining history is also notable. The gold rush in Beaconsfield in the late 1800s prompted the settlement and development of the town. The Beaconsfield mine was the region's leading industry from 1877 to 1914. The gold mine later closed, but in 1999, it reopened, and it was where a mining accident occurred in 2006 where Todd Russell and Brant Webb were trapped underground for two weeks. Despite the accident, the town remains a major tourist spot and commercially viable region today.
In conclusion, the West Tamar region is one of the most picturesque and historic regions in Tasmania with a great selection of natural and cultural history. Whether you are looking to explore the rich history or enjoy the scenery, the region has something to offer. From the Pyemmairrener Aboriginal people to the early European settlers, the mining industry, and the apple and winery industries, the West Tamar region is full of fascinating details about Tasmania's past.