World Heritage Listing For Five Tasmanian Convict Sites

16-Sep-2010 | Federal Minister for Environment Protection and Heritage, Peter Garrett, recently announced the addition of 11 convict sites across Australia to the World Heritage List. Five of the 11 convict sites in the World Heritage listing are located in Tasmania.

"Australia is a relatively new country in terms of its European history. However, our early history coincided with one of the great historical phenomena, penal migration. This is reflected in the pre-eminence of our convict sites and their worldwide relevance and interest" Peter Garrett said.

Penal migration is a major part of the Tasmanian story. Visitors to the state can gain great insight into the lives and conditions that convicts endured by visiting the plethora of well preserved heritage sites across the state, many of which can host offsite dinners, meetings and events.

The Cascades Female Factory

The Cascades Female Factory, in Hobart was a self-contained, purpose-built institution intended to reform female convicts. The inmates did laundry and needlework services, offsetting some of the colony’s penal costs.

Visitors cannot fail to be moved as they walk through the area with a trained guide providing insight into the history of the female convicts and their lifestyle at the Female Factory, the buildings as they were at the time, and the restoration and archaeological work currently being carried out.
 
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes a visit to the Memorial Gardens and the Matron's Cottage.

The Memorial Gardens are dedicated to the women and children who suffered during the life of the Female Factory and have featured in many publications. They attract many thousands of visitors annually.

Groups of 15 PAX or more can arrange a private tour at any time (with discounted rates) by calling (03) 6233 6656. Visit the website for more information.

The Port Arthur Historic Site

The Port Arthur Historic Site operated as a penal station for secondary offenders until 1877, and developed into a major industrial complex.

The Port Arthur Historic Site has many indoor and outdoor venues available for events. The site has boutique meeting facilities and catering onsite and is ideal for off-site dinners, incentives, and pre- or post-conference touring.

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Visit the website for more information.

The Coal Mines Historic Site

The Coal Mines Historic Site is located on the north side of the Tasman Peninsula. The mine played an important role in the development of the colony, and held up to 500 convicts. It was regarded as a particularly severe place of punishment.

Visit the website for more information on exploring the site.

Brickendon and Woolmers Estates

Brickendon and Woolmers Estates, located near Longford, were private farms that utilised assigned convicts, both male and female, who worked largely in agricultural jobs and contributed to the development of Tasmania’s pastoral industry.

Brickendon, 20 minutes outside of Launceston, has been owned and farmed by the same family for over 170 years. The farm provides a superb venue for offsite dinners, corporate team building, meetings or pre and post touring.

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 Visit the website, email info@brickendon.com.au, or phone 03 6391 1251 for more information.

Woolmers Estate is one of the most historically significant heritage properties in Australia as it continues to display colonial 19th century Tasmanian life in its most genuine shape and gives an accurate depiction of Tasmanian heritage, preserved and maintained in an original and authentic setting.

Guests can wander around the property exploring the artefacts, National Rose Garden and convict built outbuildings including The Wool and Apple Packing Sheds, Coach House and Farm Stables, Blacksmiths and Settlers Cottages Accommodation.

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 Visit the website for more information.

Darlington Probation Station

Darlington Probation Station, located on Maria Island off Tasmania’s East Coast, showcases 16 surviving sites dating, in some cases, back to the 1820s.

Maria Island National Park can be accessed by ferry and aircraft and offers a range of activities ideal for incentive groups and pre and post conference touring.

Visit the website for more information.



Claire McLaren
Membership and Marketing Manager


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