Wallaby Walkabout Tours in Launceston, Tasmania | Tour guide

Wallaby Walkabout Tours

Locality: Launceston, Tasmania

Phone: +61 439 979 183

Address: Prince's Square 7250 Launceston, TAS, Australia

Website: http://launcestonwalkingtours.com.au

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25.01.2022 What a great day of hosting the wonderful Grade 4s from Scotch Oakburn College on some Aboriginal cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge. We managed to dodge most of the morning rain doing memory wreath making and ochre painting in the Stone Hut BBQ area and the kids loved the hands on activities. When the rain cleared we did my cultural connections walk into the Hidden Valley and as usual the live wattle grub was a highlight! The students also l...oved finding out about the origins of the Hidden Valley and its importance to Tasmanian palawa people. They also learned a lot about native foods and resources in the area, and got to taste some too. It is always a privilege and pleasure to be able to share knowledge and stories with the young, and not so young, in such an amazing place that is our wonderful Cataract Gorge!

24.01.2022 It was great to be part of ABC Radio's Mornings Program today that was done at the Legana shopping centre. It was primarily for candidates in the upcoming Legislative Council but as it was held in the heartland of the Tamar Valley I was invited to share some fascinating snippets of local, and ancient, historical information. I bet you didn't know that Legana is a Tasmanian Aboriginal word meaning 'fresh water'...it can also mean 'fresh poo'. It all depends on which language g...roup it originated from. And the Tamar Valley was occupied by a variety of different clans and visited by other nations for at least 12 000 years. As you can see from the delighted reaction of the fellow behind me what I provided was very much appreciated. People even texted in asking for me to be regular guest on the Mornings Program. Thanks and I shall pay you all later . Thank you too to Mornings Program Manager Kyia for inviting me, Brooke for photographing me, and others on the team who make it all happen. It was also great to finally meet host Leon Compton, who I listen to regularly, and also catch up with Joel Rheinberger who has interviewed me before. What a great team of wonderful people!

24.01.2022 What I truly love, and showcasing, about Launceston's history is that it is far more than wonderful heritage buildings and significant events, it is also about fascinating characters. One of my favourites is John Pascoe Fawkner, also known as Little Johnny (he was all of 5 feet, 2 inches tall...or is that short?). The son of a convict who himself became a convict his story is far too complex to tell here but he played more than pivotal role in the development and growth of La...unceston. He built and operated one of the first large hotels, The Cornwall Hotel (originally Cornwall House), and among other things established the first newspaper, The Launceston Advertiser. He also went on to play a key role in the founding of Melbourne. Fawkner was a true anti-authoritarian and the comple opposite of another intriguing character in John Batman. Despite some contemporary history having them as partners in founding Melbourne they were bitter rivals. Batman was adored by authorities, and the people, after his role in the Black War and also capturing the bushranger Matthew Brady. Fawkner, on the other hand, was held in contempt by authorities while Batman was a considered a hero. Of course to find out the whole story you will have to come along on one of my Launceston history walks. You will be amazed at what you'll discover!

23.01.2022 What an amazing week of hosting some wonderful, and very different, school groups on my palawa cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge. To begin with I had some excellent grade 3s from the Steiner School who were the first ones to do my new petroglyph carving activity. As you can see they created some incredible artwork...and also with the ochre painting! I couldn't be more pleased with how it all went. Today I hosted a fantastic little class of P...reps from Campbell Town School. We did many great activities and you know that it all went exceedingly well when some of the little munchkins give impromptu hugs and blow air kisses to you! They are so cute and tiny...and loved seeing the peacocks and Wallabies close up. And I'll have add the review of 'Best day ever!' (5 year old Prep student) to my list of testimonials! Thank you so much to all the teachers, support help and kids for such a wonderful time with you all! #educationtas #aboriginaleducationtasmania #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #tourismnortherntasmania #cataractgorge #launcestoncataractgorge #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #basincafe #behindthescenestasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #launcestonvisitorinformationcentre #eventslaunceston

22.01.2022 Well, what a contrast from hosting university students in the Cataract Gorge yesterday to hosting a wonderful group of wonderful Grade 2 students on a history walking tour of Launceston today! They were an excellent and enthusiastic group of little learners who soaked up a lot of history. And they also loved discovering the little doors and windows of Launceston along the way! They were also the first ones to see me in my new full regalia of very spectacular top hat, vest an...d tails jacket. Very appropriate for doing history walks! And I must thank the wonderful people at Neill Pitt's Menswear for their support and able to give me some great deals on the attire! And, of course, Neill Pitt's is housed in the historic old Majestic Theatre that is featured on my walking tours of Launceston. If you too would like to find out more about Launceston and its amazing history, and also discover the little doors and windows of Launceston, then book a tour with me soon. Like my great Grade 2s today you will love what you will discover!

21.01.2022 It was a wonderful privilege to host a cool group of Launceston College students on some Aboriginal cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge today. They had some interesting and varied questions about many aspects of the Gorge that often don't get asked. The keen and perceptive eyes of youth don't miss much! As usual with the experiences I provide we concluded the morning with a memory wreath making session and then dedicated them to our ancestors by launching them into the waters of the First Basin. It does add that final special element and is an appropriate thank you to our ancestors for allowing us to share their sacred place.

21.01.2022 Hello to all you people who love our iconic Cataract Gorge and awaiting the opening of the pools so you can go and take a swim. Or take the kids for a paddle too. Work is under way to finish cleaning after the flood and the fence is going up! That, hopefully, means the pools will be open soon! They're a bit late opening this year due to the last flood event that dumped a lot of mud and debris into the pools just after they had been cleaned and ready to go. Stay tuned and I'll... let you know when they are filled and available! And also when the Alexander Bridge will be open too. As you can see it is all a hive of activity at the moment! #discoverlaunceston #launcestoncataractgorge #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #basincafe #behindthescenestasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #theatrenorth #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #launceston #launcestontasmania #eventslaunceston #launcestonvisitorinformationcentre #launcestonkayaktours #launcestoncataractgorge #cataractgorgescenicchairlift #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #princesstheatrelaunceston #tourismtasmania #tourismnortherntasmania

19.01.2022 It's always wonderful when nature gets the memo and a couple of cute pademelons come out to add the awww factor to a Cataract Gorge tour. #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #lovelaunceston #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #onyourbiketourslaunceston #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #stillwaterrestaurant

18.01.2022 Well the ancestors smiled on us today and kept the rain and wind away for a wonderful afternoon of Aboriginal cultural connections and histories in the Cataract Gorge. It was a great privilege and pleasure to host a couple of great families who absolutely loved exploring places in the Cataract Gorge and finding out about native foods and resources. One of the great aspects hosting families is seeing how adventurous kids are! The youngest today was 3 years old and nothing faze...d him. He even took over leading us back over some sections. A little explorer and future tour guide in the making there! Thank you to all of you for being such wonderful guests today! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #northerntasmania #mapenguin10 #launceston #launcestontasmania #launcestonevents #tourismnortherntasmania #lovelaunceston #cataractgorge #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #cataractgorgescenicchairlift #launcestonkayaktours #launcestoncataractgorge #launcestonvisitorinformationcentre #janenic64 #fionastockerwriter #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #whatsoninlaunceston

18.01.2022 Welcome to the winter wonderland that is Launceston's Cataract Gorge! I never thought I would see a snowman in the Fairy Dell, or snow in the Cataract Gorge for that matter. But here it is, and all over Launceston too. The year 2020 just gets freakier but at least snow has provided some fun opportunities for many!

17.01.2022 Well, what another great week of hosting some wonderful people on some of my history walks around Launceston! One thing I really love is meeting so many engaging and diverse people who appreciate the stories and histories of our great little city. For something different, this week we also found this little fella...a Teenage Mutant Nija Turtle! I used to love watching the TNMTs and this is Raphael. He was the temperamental and rebellious one of the 4 and can be found in the I...nk Korporated Tattoo parlour in St John St. Thank you to the lovely receptionist for taking the photo of me with Raph! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #lovelaunceston #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #stillwaterrestaurant #stillwater #cataractgorge #cataractgorgescenicchairlift #whatsoninlaunceston #eventslaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #auldingtonhotel #launcestonkayaktours

15.01.2022 What a fantastic morning it was to host another great group of Launceston College students on some Aboriginal cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge. They all loved finding out more about the Gorge and the special part it has in palawa culture and history. They also found it amazing to discover and explore parts of the Gorge they didn't know about. That is always a real highlight of the experiences I provide. They also loved taking part in the making of memory wreaths and ochre ceremony that concluded our special time in the Cataract Gorge and done as thanks to our ancestors for allowing us to share their sacred place. Thank you so much Launceston College students, and teachers, for allowing me to be your host in such a special place!

15.01.2022 The City Park is one of the great gems of Launceston and a beautiful place to visit. One of the main attractions are the Japanese Macaques and their playful antics. The first ones arrived in 1980 and were a cultural exchange gift from our sister city in Japan, Ikeda. They have been here so long now they could be called Launceston Macaques! Of course, the Park is also a very significant historical site for many reasons, one being it was where the Lt. Governor's residence was s...ituated. That was in the south eastern section of the park near the cannon. Overall it is a magnificent asset to our beautiful little city and when the opportunity arises I love to showcase it to visitors. Of course you don't need a guide to lead your way...just visit and enjoy it for yourself! #discoverlaunceston #discovertasmania #northerntasmania #lovelaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #walkinglaunceston #launcestoncataractgorge #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #launceston #madapplecafe #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #tassietravels #launcestoncitypark #launcestoncornwall #onyourbiketours #launcestontasmania #launcestonkayaktours

15.01.2022 Well school holidays are here and I've been incredibly busy over the past month hosting lots of wonderful school groups in the Cataract Gorge. My last ones for the term were the great students and teachers/supports from Campbell Town Grade 3/4s. For many of them it was their first time at the Gorge and a real highlight for them was seeing the Wallaby with her joey. Of course, they also loved exploring the Gorge and finding out about Tasmanian Aboriginal cultural connections and histories along the way. They also really enjoyed ochre painting and weaving Snotty Vine into memory wreaths. As you can see they were incredibly and brilliantly creative!

14.01.2022 Hello there to all you little doors and windows of Launceston, and now little houses, fans. For your viewing pleasure here is my latest discovery. Hopefully some of you are out and about this weekend looking for these latest little gems that are the creation of Launceston's own Banksy, the enigmatic Lord Scabar. To find this one look for where King Ted would park the Kingswood. That should exercise your imagination working it out! I'm up to 9 of 15 so let me know where you find some and between us all we may just discover them all!

13.01.2022 Well, you never know what will come up on a history walking tour of Launceston and today it was an Extinction Rebellion rally. Fortunately our walk ended as the dreary weather set in and right on cue for the rally at our finishing point at Civic Square. The Tassie Devil was part of it and only too happy to be honoured with a wearing of my wonderfully distinctive top hat. And it certainly suits in a devilish and delightful manner! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discover...tasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #launcestontasmania #lovelaunceston #basincafe #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #onyourbiketourslaunceston #launcestonkayaktours #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #fionastockerwriter #tamarrivercruises #lordscabar See more

13.01.2022 What a great day for swanning about with the kids on the waters of the South Esk River as it flows into the Tamar yacht basin. These beautiful Black Swans have kept their fledgling cygnets safe from the floods we recently had and here they are. Are they friends of yours Launceston Kayak Tours? And what better thing to do than see them on the water from a kayak!

12.01.2022 For the first time since 2016 the Cataract Gorge is in a flood mode large enough to cover the swimming pool. It is a beautiful sight, and also sound, with the waters of the South Esk River cascading through the Gorge. To really get a bird's eye view of the rampaging waters I recommend you do what I did and take a ride on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift from the First Basin side. Not only will you get wonderful views but also be supporting a great local business! Once on the Picnic Grounds side take a leisurely stroll back to the First Basin and take in the sights and sounds of the South Esk River as it thunders underneath the historic Alexandra Bridge. It is quite something to enjoy and experience!

11.01.2022 It is great to see that the pools at the First Basin are now full and almost ready to go! Shouldn't be more than a couple of days before they are open and hopefully in time for some of the warmer days we have coming over the next week. On a different note, some sad and sorry miscreant/s set fire to our lovely and historic Alexandra Bridge (aka the Swinging Bridge) on Wednesday night. It was quite a determined effort as they set it alight right in the middle and had to bypass ...all the security/safety precautions put in place for the maintenance works going on. I suppose that one saving grace is that the bridge is closed and will be repaired soon. Anyway, as usual the teenagers are still enjoying swimming in the First Basin and gathering at Hogg's Bottom. Some things do not change a lot! #cataractgorge #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #cataractgorgelaunceston #tourismtasmania #tourismnortherntasmania #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #launceston #lovelaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #walkinglaunceston #launcestoncataractgorge #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #tassietravels #launcestonkayaktours #kayaktourslaunceston #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #fionastockerwriter #eatdrinkandbekerry

11.01.2022 Launceston is home to many wonderful parks and one of my favourites is Prince's Square. It began as a clay pit for making bricks for the construction of nearby St Johns Church, and other buildings around the town. Later it was filled in and called St Johns Square but was renamed after Prince Alfred visited, and planted some trees, in 1863. The centrepiece is, of course, the wonderful fountain that is French style Val d'Osne and installed in 1859. It was to commemorate the pip...ing of fresh water into Launceston that began in 1857. The supply of water saw Launceston flourish and become a world leader in many areas. At the time the fountain was considered far too grand for such a ramshackle town and many local legends have been created to explain its presence. To this day many still believe some of them too! To find out the true story, and many other fascinating aspects of Lady Launceston and her incredible characters, then I invite you to join me on my history walking tour. And for the rest of this month all walking tours are free! And please feel free to like/share my Facebook page too...I'm approaching a major milestone of 500 followers and the 500th person will get a special reward!

11.01.2022 What a fantastic start to new year hosting a lovely group of young Malaysian ladies, visiting from Melbourne, on my Cataract Gorge experience. They really enjoyed exploring some special parts of the Gorge that they would otherwise not have found. They also loved being part of my ochre ceremony and making memory wreaths from Snotty Vine. And then taking part in the thank you ritual where we dedicated the wreaths to the waters of the First Basin to honour our palawa ancestors. ... The unique experiences I provide do more than showcase our iconic Cataract Gorge, they establish personal connections to the sacred spiritual resting place of our palawa ancestors. And you cannot ask for more than that in such an amazing place! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #cataractgorgelaunceston #cataractgorgerestaurant #basincafe #behindthescenestasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #visitLaunceston #stillwaterrestaurant #mapenguin10 #eventslaunceston

10.01.2022 Now this is truly going behind the scenes and it is a pleasure to highlight to you some rarely seen parts inside of one of Launceston's iconic buildings. I will not reveal which one it is but some of you may be able to pick it, and if so please do not say what it is. My guest today, Janie (who did a Gorge tour with me recently), was absolutely enthralled at being able to be part of this discovery journey. However, it will most likely be a one-off experience. How lucky are you... Janie! Of course, there are other interior parts of this wonderful building that I am able to showcase to my guests. And inside other buildings as well, not to mention exploring some of the back alleys and lane ways of Launceston. It is all about having a truly local born and bred host who knows not just where to find hidden gems but also tell some of the fascinating stories that go with them.

10.01.2022 It is always wonderful to explore places I have not previously paid much attention to so when a school asked if I could provide Aboriginal cultural experiences in Punchbowl Reserve for their Preps I naturally said yes. So, as part of my preparations I had to go and explore it! My exploration began in Kings Meadows where I followed the excellent walking path along the Kings Meadows Rivulet. That goes directly to the Punchbowl Reserve and takes in the striking rock fissure whe...re the rivulet tumbles down into the reserve. Along the way it was wonderful to experience the local bird life of ducks and ducklings, not to mention the ubiquitous 'turbo chooks' who gather in packs like little Jurassic Park Velociraptors! Thankfully the turbo chooks are all squark and no deadly claws! They are a wonderful creature to observe though and the Punchbowl Reserve is a beautiful place to spend time in. And a great space to be able to provide some palawa cultural connection experiences for young children! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #aboriginaleducationtasmania #educationtas #instatasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #launcestontasmania #launcestonevents #eventslaunceston #launcetonkayaktours #mapenguin10 #basincafe #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #gorgescenicchairlift #janenic64

10.01.2022 What a wonderful afternoon to have hosting a small group of local people on my history walking experience of Launceston. These two lovely people opted for my extended tour while others were most happy to go with the shorter version. Launceston is such a fascinating place with amazing history and stories of incredible characters, such as Dicky White and John Pascoe Fawkner who were reformed rouges and became pivotal people in the development of Launceston. And of course Fawkner went on to found Melbourne but does not get enough recognition for that. To find out more then come along on a tour of Launceston with me soon. And all my walking tours are free for the rest of this month!

09.01.2022 Going behind the scenes are some of the great experiences I provide on my tours and recently I had the pleasure of hilighting the City Park Radio Museum and City Park FM radio station studios. My guests really loved it and it added an unexpected dimension to their experiences! No other history walking tours of Launceston have the adaptability to tailor tour experiences that cater to people's preferences/interests that I can provide. That is the advantage of being a born and ...bred local historian. I don't work to a script or a set route. As such I can also cater to coach tours, or anything else, and can start from any departure point. My knowledge and experiences are unique and unmatched. And I am also very affordable too. My basic tours start at $30 per person with options for extended experiences up to a whole day at $75 per person. Just get in touch with me and I will provide you with whatever you are looking for! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #launcestontasmania #lovelaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #walkinglaunceston #launcestoncataractgorge #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #cataractgorge #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #mapenguin10 #instatasmania #instalaunceston #edts #endeavourtravel #encountertasmania

09.01.2022 Hello everyone! What many of you may not know is that in addition to hosting various guided tours in and around Launceston I also work at the University of Tasmania and one of my specialist fields is assisting upcoming teaching professionals to become knowledgeable educators. As part of that today I hosted some our wonderful students in the Cataract Gorge. It was primarily to showcase to them what can be done in the Cataract Gorge in relation to teaching Tasmanian Aboriginal... histories and cultural connections to our area. However, it was far more than that and I was able to provide information about the unique features of our wonderful Cataract Gorge that can be used to help teach about geology, geography and local history. And, of course, how they can use the experiences they had today in completing assignments! It was a wonderful time for all of us to not only enjoy what our amazing Cataract Gorge has to offer, but also do that as an 'on country' experience in such a special that makes sharing of knowledge so enjoyable! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #tourismnortherntasmania #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #launcestonvisitorinformationcentre #cataractgorge #launcestoncataractgorge #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #basincafe #behindthescenestasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instalaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #theatrenorth #princesstheatrelaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #eventslaunceston #launcetonkayaktours #launcestontasmania #launcestoncornwall #onyourbiketourslaunceston

09.01.2022 One of the great aspects of hosting tours is the diversity of people I get to meet. Over the past few very busy weeks I have hosted people from Malaysia, Queensland, Canberra, Victoria and a great local fellow from Westbury. Not only have the people been from diverse places but the tour experiences have also been very different. I've hosted town history walks, Gorge explorations, a combined town/Gorge experience (using the free Tiger bus to link them and then walking back to ...the city) and also a great little walk to the Punchbowl reserve along the Kings Meadows Rivulet. It is not only the diversity of experiences I provide that makes me unique it is also my knowledge as a local (and Tasmanian Aboriginal) historian. I can tailor a tour to suit whether it is meeting you at your accommodation, coming back from a Tamar River Cruises or anywhere else. And it isn't just what you will see but the amazing stories I have to tell. Anyone can be 'trained' to be a tour guide but you can't train someone to be a natural storyteller! And it is the stories that make an experience great instead of good! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #lovelaunceston #whatsoninlaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #tamarrivercruises #mapenguin10 #janenic64 #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #stillwaterrestaurant #stillwater #auldingtonhotel #artonyork #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #instatasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston

08.01.2022 Well, what a great way to add to such a diverse week by hosting some wonderful Grade 9 students from Scotch Oakburn College on some Aboriginal cultural connections experiences in the Cataract Gorge. It was a full on day with an exploration of the Gorge that took them to places they didn't know about, ochre painting and memory wreath making. Of course, there was also some sharing of knowledge about Tasmanian Aboriginal history. It is always wonderful to educate young minds abo...ut the amazing 40 000 years of Aboriginal heritage we have. And also the tragedies of colonisation. However, Tasmanian Aboriginal history is also a continuing story of survival and that is so important to tell too. Tomorrow I will be having a display at the Tamar/kanamaluka Discovery Day from 10am to 2pm, so come along and say hi. And also have some fun learning more about our estuary and its great diversity.

08.01.2022 It has been another busy week hosting my palawa cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge but I did find some time to get to visit the wonderful Launceston Tramway Museum at Inveresk. For any local history buff it is a must see, and do, experience! Not only are there great exhibits of a past era but I just had to take a ride on a tram that had a sign saying The Gorge on it! Of course, it doesn't go to the Gorge but does now go on an extended journey... around the back parts of the old railway yard. There are plans afoot to extend it further and do a loop of the rail yards but this was fantastic anyway. And only $5 for a great 20 minute ride through time! I can highly recommend a visit to the Tramway Museum and taking a tram ride. You will love it! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #tourismnortherntasmania #cataractgorge #launcestoncataractgorge #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #launcestontasmania #launcestonTramway #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #cataractgorgelaunceston #cataractgorgerestaurant #basincafe #behindthescenestasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #qvmaglaunceston #eventslaunceston

07.01.2022 One of the great aspects of hosting little doors and windows of Launceston tours is when my guest is able to show me one I hadn't found before. Today Susanne was most excited to not only discover so many little doors and windows she had not previously found but also show me this little hidden in plain sight gem. Susanne was also enthralled with some surprising aspects of Launceston she discovered today. The back alleys and lane ways hide away some wonderful little gems, such as the contender for Launceston's thinnest building you can see in photo 4. What a fascinating building it is! To experience all Launceston has to offer you really must go behind the scenes and that is what I specialise in providing! And I am extending my offer of free walking tours to the end of September. Come along and discover a Launceston you didn't know about!

07.01.2022 "Hello, I'm Mr Ed and feeling a bit horse today!" What a great walk I had with the Launceston Urban Fringe Trails group on Saturday morning. We walked from St Leonards to Relbia and I discovered some walking paths I didn't know about. And met the wonderful Mr Ed along the way! LUFT is the fantastic concept John Ralph, of Ascent Fitness, came up with and he developed a series of walking experiences that traverses the fringes of Launceston. Not only is it a great way to get fi...t but a fantastic way to see parts our amazing little city that you'd otherwise miss. I can highly recommend the LUFT experience, and others John offers, so look him up! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #tourismnortherntasmania #launcestontasmania #lovelaunceston #whatsoninlaunceston #eventslaunceston #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #onyourbiketourslaunceston #luft #luftlaunceston

07.01.2022 There is always the unexpected when doing a Launceston Urban Fringe Trail walk with John Ralph of Ascent Fitness. Today it was having along this adorable little joey, Womble the baby female Wombat. As you can see Womble (OK, I made that name up as it suits and I can't recall her actual name) is a beautiful little creature and enjoyed her time in the sun and meeting all of the great group. And Womble got it easy being carried in her carer's backpack and snuggled up in her 'pou...ch'. The rest of us traversed and conquered the legendary LUFT 5 hills, including the Duck Reach penstock ladder climb and ultimately Rowsphorn Rd with its 20 degree gradient. After all that a cold beer and nanna nap are in order #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #janenic64 #fionastockerwriter #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #instatravel #launcestontasmania #luft #luftlaunceston #mapenguin10 #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #launcestoncataractgorge #stillwaterrestaurant #monafoma #madapplecafe

07.01.2022 So far this week I have had the absolute pleasure and privilege of hosting 2 very different school groups on my palawa cultural connections and histories experiences in the Cataract Gorge. One was for the great group of Grade 2 students from Glen Dhu, and the others were the marvellous Grade 5s from Launceston Church Grammar School. Not only was I able to provide great educational experiences and fun activities, such as ochre painting, making memory wreaths from Snotty Vine a...nd petroglyph carving, I also provided advice to the wonderful teachers at LCGS about how to go about teaching Tasmanian palawa content to their students. I'm always very eager to share knowledge and my experiences/skills are unique! Thank you to all of you and also great thanks to the LCGS photographers who took some of the excellent photos of the students, and me, in action! To see more please visit the Launceston Church Grammar School Facebook page. #aboriginaleducationtasmania #educationtas #educationtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #launceston #cataractgorge #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #cataractgorgelaunceston #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #tourismtasmania #instatasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #tamarrivercruises #launcestonkayaktours #mapenguin10

06.01.2022 As part of my ongoing quest to learn more about our wonderful Cataract Gorge and experience it as intimately as possible I had the absolute pleasure of going on a (leg powered) paddle through it with Aran of Launceston Kayak Tours. It certainly provides a magnificent experience of the Cataract Gorge and you get to see things from a unique perspective. It was wonderful to see some elements up close and get views that aren't possible on any walking tour. In addition to me seein...g our Gorge from a new perspective, Aran was also most appreciative of what I could tell him about some of the little known features, such as the ancient waterfall that not many know about. Of course, if you combine a Launceston Kayak Tour with one of my on foot explorations you will get a complete experience of our iconic Cataract Gorge. I highly recommend Launceston Kayak Tours and you don't need to super fit or have any experience operating a kayak. The operators, Aran and Kezya, are wonderful hosts and will take you on some amazing experiences! Book an experience with them and then come with me on walking tour and you will get the most comprehensive experiences possible of our wonderful Cataract Gorge! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #launcestontasmania #cataractgorge #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #launcestonkayaktours #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #instatasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #whatsoninlaunceston #eventslaunceston #tamarrivercruises #stillwater

06.01.2022 One of the wonderful historic buildings I love to showcase to my guests is the old Shott's Umbrella Shop in George Street. The building is circa 1860 but it is the original, and visually striking, 1921 shop facade that first attracts attention. However, it is once you go behind the scenes and go inside that you really venture back in time. There is the wonderful old cash register that can still ring up a sale and looks magnificent. And out the back is a fabulous museum displa...y that has many features. Among them are some wonderfully hand crafted artefacts of a bygone era, including an umbrella with ivory handle carved as a swan. Another striking feature is the lady's dress that is elegant and matches so many of the old umbrellas and parasols on display. Of course, you don't have to do one of my history walks to experience the old umbrella shop, but to put it in historical context and really immerse yourself in Launceston's incredible history then book yourself in for an amazing experience. You won't be disappointed! #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #lovelaunceston #whatsoninlaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #visitLaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #walkinglaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #cataractgorgerestaurant #gorgescenicchairliftlaunceston #basincafe #stillwaterrestaurant

06.01.2022 Well, Launceston's very own Banksy, the mysterious Lord Scabar, has been at it again and created more wonderful street art for us to enjoy! This time it is little houses that are popping up close to various parks around Launceston. These are far more intricate than his previous little doors and windows of Launceston but just as intriguing. No doubt they have some yet to be revealed significance to the master plan the enigmatic one has in store for us though. For the time bein...g our quest is to find them all and I believe there are 15 of them in total. I have found 8 so far...and still searching! Of course, I won't reveal locations publicly but if you would like to have a clue as to where to look please message me on my Facebook page, or email me via my website launcestonwalkingtours.com.au And, naturally, they are going to be a new feature on my history discovery walks of Launceston!

06.01.2022 Hello everyone and particularly to those of you who are lovers of the little doors and windows of Launceston. Well, our favourite street artist, the mysterious Lord Scabar, has been busy and added to his/her incredible collection of public art. We now have little houses to discover! They are perched high, like the little windows, and I believe there are 15 of them to be found. Of course, their locations are not revealed but a clue is that they are in, or near, open public spa...ces. To discover these two little gems of artistic creativity you need to think outside the square of being a mere dragon slayer. Once you do you will be nicely rewarded! OK, the journey of discovering little doors and windows now has a new dimension. Let's see what we can find...and where!

05.01.2022 Wow, what an incredible day I've had hosting the wonderfully enthusiastic Grade 3/4 students from St Thomas More's school on some Aboriginal cultural connections to the Cataract Gorge. As usual the real hilight for many were the live wattle grubs. Kids just love being able to handle and experience first hand a live creature they have never seen or touched before. Of course, someone always wants to eat one! However, no eating of exhibits is allowed Speaking of exhibits, I had some new additions arrive today. They are pink, red and white ochres in natural forms. They will be wonderful enhancements to what I already show...and pink ochre is so unique to find!

05.01.2022 Well the quest to discover more little houses of Launceston continues and here are two more wonderful finds. The lighting is not great but I'm sure you will appreciate them regardless! These two are in the city and close to a place of great historical significance for Launceston. I really love the large one and it is the most imposing one I have discovered so far. I'm up to 9 of the little houses so far, which leaves me 6 more to go. So get out there and discover them too people! Keep looking up while you walk about our great little city...particularly when near one of many wonderful parks!

02.01.2022 What a wonderful morning I have had with some great Grade 9 students at Scotch Oakburn College where they got to have some great fun painting with ochre and experiencing working with Snotty Vine along with my interactive cultural display. I also provided a short talk about Tasmanian palawa history, cultural practices and first contacts with Europeans, which was greatly appreciated. Our day was supposed to be on country in the Cataract Gorge but the prediction of rain curtailed that. However, as you can see the creativity of the students wasn't stifled at all and they created some wonderful art works! Please enjoy the art as it is quite amazing.

02.01.2022 In keeping with my motto of going behind the scenes like never before it was a great pleasure to show my guests, Nevil and his lovely wife, inside our iconic Albert Hall. Nevil and his wife contacted me with the express desire of seeing inside as many buildings as possible, with the Albert Hall at the top of their list. Not only was I more than pleased and able to tailor experiences to meet their wishes, but exceeded their expectations! That is the unique advantage I have of ...being a local historian and knowing so much of Launceston inside and out, and not needing to stick to a set route or script. I can provide experiences of not just buildings and stories of fascinating characters but take you inside many historically significant places. And not only did Nevil get to see inside our historic Albert Hall he provided an amazing experience for me too. Nevil is an extremely accomplished pianist and took great delight in giving an improtu performance on the Grand Piano conviently there on stage. He described the experience as a once in a lifetime thrill! I am hoping Nevil will allow me share with you the video footage I filmed of him playing the Grand Piano but for now some photos will have to suffice. #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #experientialtas #experientialtasmania #cityoflauncestonofficial #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #lovelaunceston #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #stillwaterrestaurant #stillwater #auldingtonhotel #artonyork #mapenguin10 #launcestoncataractgorge #launcestonwalkingtours #madapplecafe #instagramtasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston #launcestontasmania #launcestonevents #eventslaunceston #whatsoninlaunceston

02.01.2022 One of my favourite places to visit is the wonderful historic Franklin House at Franklin Village. Built in 1838 for the reformed convict Britton Jones in classic neo-Classical Greek Revival style it later became a boarding school for boys run by William Keeler-Hawkes. Not only does it have wonderful heritage and a beautiful time capsule but I also have some personal links to it. As youngsters chasing some easy coin so we could #fionastockerwriplay Space Invaders we used to sn...eak in the back to raid the wishing well. Alas the ever vigilant ladies who conducted tours would catch us before any coins could be snapped up. While there this time I did not snatch any coins but was able to solve the 'mystery' of where the fire place would have been for the oven. And added to the story of another old building that used to be nearby, Tallantyre. I highly recommend you visit Franklin House and appreciate its amazing history! #launceston #lovelaunceston #behindthesceneslaunceston #behindthescenestasmania #visitLaunceston #launcestontasmania #launcestonevents #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #tasmania #tassietravels #tourismnortherntasmania #tourismtasmania #visitnortherntasmania #visittasmania #launcestonkayaktours #luftlaunceston #luft #discovertasmania #discoverlaunceston #instatasmania #instalaunceston #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #whatsoninlaunceston

02.01.2022 Not everyone likes to have their photo taken and shared on social media but they love to take photos of their host! And who better to be photographed with than my old mate, Dr William Russ Pugh. Dr Pugh was a man of many firsts, and is primarily known as the first person to use ether as a general anaesthetic in Australia. That was in 1847 and he performed the operation on a lady to remove a tumour from her jaw. And he did the procedure in St John's Hospital, which is now Mort...on House, opposite Prince's Square in Charles St. The lady survived both the operation and anaesthetic. The story of Dr Pugh is part of the incredibly rich tapestry of history that is part of the Prince's Square precinct with its churches, synagogue, riots, striking ornamental fountain and even murder! Of course, to find out more you'll need to come along on my history walk of Launceston. #discoverlaunceston #tourismtasmania #discovertasmania #tassietravels #launceston #northerntasmania #tourismnortherntasmania #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #behindthesceneslaunceston #instatasmania #tamarrivercruises #instagramlaunceston #instagramtasmania #launcestonevents #walkinglaunceston #lovelaunceston #whatsoninlaunceston #theatrenorth #princesstheatrelaunceston #walkinglaunceston #launcestoncataractgorge #launcestonvisitorinfocentre #launcestonvisitorinformationcenter #gorgescenicchairlift #janenic64 #fionastockerwriter #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #experientialtas #experientialtasmania

01.01.2022 Over time the Cataract Gorge has been home to many interesting characters with the most infamous being the Cranky Man who lived in cave below Giant's Grave in the 1830/40s. He was renowned for menacing people with a big stick. Another lesser known character was the Peg Man and he lived in a camp site in the Cataract Gorge. Little is known about him but he liked to spend his time making wooden clothes pegs that he would sell. His camp site location was a mystery but recently I... was shown what is likely to be that very place. Alas, I won't be adding it to my tours of the Gorge as I'd never get insurance due to the difficulties getting to it. And it should remain a secret place too. However, here are some photos of it, and a couple of other strange finds. I have no idea what the fence was for, and it is in a very odd place. The Gorge still has it's mysterious elements that's for sure!

01.01.2022 Happy Christmas to you all! Hope you are all having a great day! #janenic64 #mapenguin10 #fionastockerwriter #basincafe #cataractgorgerestaurant #christinapickard #cataractgorgescenicchairlift #launcestonkayaktours #launcestonvisitorinformationcentre #cornwallboutique ##tourismnortherntasmania #tourismtasmania #visitLaunceston #visitnortherntasmania #stillwaterrestaurant #stillwater #auldingtonhotel #artonyork #lordscabar #launcestoncornwall #launcestonstreetart #vergehotel