Hunt meeting at Blackwell's Hotel, Melton Mowbray, Tasmania. 1866

From a Correspondent for The Mercury, Hobart 21 May 1866, May 21

Thursday, the 17th of May, will be a day spoken of and remembered for many a long year to come, it having been the first day of the hunting season for 1866, with that excellent pack of hounds which are known as the Melton Mowbray pack.

The day’s sport was begun at eleven o’clock by a steeplechase over three miles of a severe country, for a Silver Cup, the horses to be ridden by gentlemen members of the hunt. The following four horses were entered for this event: Bushman, Merry Maid, Gaylad, and Deerfoot ; and their well known jumping powers caused a large amount of speculation as to which would be the winner. The betting at starting was slightly in favor of Deerfoot, but they all found friends, and all were entrusted with money up to the last moment previous to the start, which was effected in capital style, Gaylad jumping off with the lead closely followed by the rest, till the third fence was reached, when old Deerfoot refused, and was, consequently, left a long way in the rear, the pace being terrific.

They raced in this way till about a mile from home, when Merry Maid went up to Gaylad, and looked like winning, but at the next fence she came to grief, and once more left Gaylad possession of the lead, which he maintained to the next fence, when he followed the mare’s example and came down, but did not get away from his rider. In the meanwhile Deerfoot had made up a good deal of his lost ground, and having passed Bushman, assumed a good lead. Gaylad was, however, not out of the race by any means, and having been re-mounted, was making tremendous efforts to overhaul the old bobtail, who was making for home at his best pace, Bushman being in very close attendance upon both. At the last fence Gaylad made another mistake, and left Bushman to earn second honors, nothing being able to overhaul Deerfoot, who had gone from end to end without touching a twig, and one of the best contested and fastest steeplechases ever ran in Tasmania was finished in the following order: -

Mr. K. Jillett’s Deerfoot ………. 1

Mr. J. Hadden’s Bushman……. 2

Mr. R. Harrison’s Gaylad…….. 3

Mr. W. Ibbott’s Merry Maid….4

Deerfoot was ridden by his owner, Mr. G. Ibbott assumed the reins of government on Bushman, Mr. A. Kearney piloted Gaylad, and Merry Maid’s owner did the needful for her, and may we soon again see four men go across country in as cool and determined a manner.

Half an hour’s breathing time having been allowed, the master’s horn announced that it was time to be off for the second part of our day’s sport.

John Bisdee, Esq., had kindly presented a stag to be enlarged, and consequently there was a large muster of horsemen, amongst whom we noticed several members of the legal profession and others of the right sort from Hobart Town, who had come up to enjoy themselves with having a ride after the ” little spotted darlings.” When we came to the field in which the stag was enlarged, there were not less than sixty horsemen and several ladies. The deer having been un- carted and the dogs laid on we went away, and, after a run of about four miles, the stag was obliged to succumb.   But the field being all well up, he was easily secured and perfectly unhurt was sent home. After about a quarter of an hour’s breathing, we were summoned by the sound of the horn, to be off and away after a kangaroo, which was soon found on the Woodlands Estate, near the Folly farm, he jumped up almost amongst the hounds, and went away at a splendid pace over a dead wood fence, which was negotiated by the greater part of the field without any mistakes, the music of the ” little beauties” being such that no opera company could compare with. At a good pace we went across the plain ground towards the main road, and just as many were thinking of the chance they stood of getting safely over it, our game turned, and running almost in a straight line for Woodlands house, led us across a cultivated paddock, with a good stiff dead wood on each side, over which the greater part of the field managed to get, including one of the ladies, who was riding in her usual dashing and fearless style. The long tailed on then made for the creek between the Folly and Melton Mowbray, where he was viewed, and went away apparently quite fresh, making for the rough ground at the back of the Folly, which he was unable to reach, the hounds running into him a short distance beyond the cultivated ground at the Folly farm, through which he had come, having brought us across several good post and rail fences, which were topped in style by all the flyers. The run could not have been less than eight miles, the pace exhausted the whole array, and from the nature of the country traversed, it was perhaps the best run ever had with the Melton Mowbray hounds. The sun having by this time got low, we all made for Melton, where, on our arrival, we found a magnificent dinner awaiting us, to which everyone was prepared to do justice. After the cloth was removed and the health’s of the Queen and Governor having been drunk Mr. Blackwell’s health was proposed and drunk with three times three, after which the Hunt Cup was presented by Mr. Blackwell to Mr.Jillett, the   fortunate winner, who in an appropriate speech returned thanks, and the Cup having been filled with champagne and health’s of Mr. Jillett and his old horse having been drunk, the company broke up. And so ended one of the most pleasant days ever spent in Tasmania. The next hunt is arranged to take place on Saturday the 27th of this month, when it is to be hoped there will be as grand a field, and as good sport as on the 17th, and that our excellent master and his hounds may live long and happily.

Article identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8839411

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http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page777449

APA citation

STEEPLECHASE AND HUNTING. (1866, May 21). The Mercury(Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), p. 2. Retrieved April 30, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8839411

MLA citation

“STEEPLECHASE AND HUNTING.” The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954) 21 May 1866: 2. Web. 30 Apr 2012 <http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8839411>.

Lake Crescent Tasmanian Highlands

LAKE SORELL AND LAKE CRESCENT – INTERLAKEN

The establishment of a house of accommodation on the shores of two of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and in a place which is the key to the whole of the Lakes district of Tasmania, is a movement which will be warmly welcomed alike by leisurely tourists and those engaged in the busy hum of commerce. Interlaken House stands on the narrow isthmus which separates Lake Crescent from Lake Sorell, and within its hospitable walls, upon the waters of the noble lakes, and in rambles around the many points of interest near to it a representative of this journal passed the closing days of the year just counted out, very pleasantly. The pleasure experienced will be considerably enhanced by letting others know how easily they can obtain similar enjoyment; and it is with this object in view that the following account of all that has been done, all that is to be seen, and all that is to be had, is given.

In the first place, it will be interesting to our readers to know that the idea of making Interlaken a sanatorium originated with Mr. Algernon H. Page, of Anstey Barton who became possessed of several acres of land at the junction of Lakes Sorell and Crescent several years ago, and he has with a perseverance, which is characteristic of the man, gradually perfected a scheme for making it available to the public. Many difficulties have been surmounted, and today the result may be seen, in the comfortable cottages which stand in a commanding position upon the land above alluded to. None know better than Mr. Page what visitors from other parts of the world look for when they come to Tasmania, or that the Lake country of this island is, as it, were, a sealed book to nearly a 100 per cent of our own population, and as he considered the advantages of the place as a health and pleasure resort should become known and made use of, he set to work to give practical effect to his ideas. Hitherto visitors and many of our own    people have longed to visit the lakes, but the means of doing so have been inconvenient and expensive, and they have consequently been unable to enjoy a run through the most interesting part of the colony. Those whose intrepidity was a strong feature have made occasional trips to the Great Lake, but to do this they had to undergo two days’ dreary coach travelling, and take with them tents and provisions sufficient for their stay. Then they only saw the Great Lake, which has not much besides its fury inhabitants, to recommend it. Interlaken offers considerably more, and in the course of a year or so when its advantages become, known it will probably be the most popular resort in Australasia.

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sutton, who have assumed the management of Interlaken House, have some, 13 rooms furnished with every comfort. They have a fine large dining room, capable of seating 26 persons at onetime without crowding; every convenience for cooking, and they provide a bill of fare, which taken with the other comforts of the establishment, would lead the visitor to think that he had taken up his quarters in first-class city boarding establishment, were it not that the pure, bracing air of the mountains and lakes gives him an appetite which he does not carry to the city table. The sleeping accommodation is perfect, the bedrooms being furnished with iron bedsteads, spring mattresses, good bedding, and other requisites. Large pleasure boats for the lakes, ponies, horses, and buggies for excursions to other lakes near at hand, lawn tennis, croquet, quoits, cricketing tools, and skittles are all on the premises ready for use and for indoor amusement there is a good piano and many little requisites for parlour, games. A billiard room is to be erected, and the, whole establishment is a surprise and a new development for Tasmania.

To get to Interlaken the visitor will first go to Oatlands or Antill Ponds by rail, and thence by coach. The journey is easy and enjoyable. One of the coaches which Mr. Brian Page had had built for the George’s Bay road, drawn by four good horses, starts from Smith’s Hotel, Oatlands, every Tuesday and Friday, and within three hours and a half reaches Interlaken. Probably the best way would be to take the 5p.m. train from Hobart and the 4.10 p.m. train from Launceston on Monday or Thursday, stay at Oatlands all night, and go on by coach next day. Between Oatlands and Antill Ponds the run along the old main road down St. Peter’s Pass opens up some splendid country, and after leaving the Antill Ponds post office the road lies across level country for several miles until the Western Tier is reached. The tourist then finds himself fairly on the Great Lake road, and whilst the wheels are rolling over the smooth highway his eye surveys a large expanse of country, which broadens out as the horses climb the hill. And, when the summit is attained he can look through and over the trees at a vast and interesting panorama of hill and dale pasture, and woodland, rivers and valleys, pretty villages and townships, lying beneath him, the whole forming a perfection of beauty not often seen by the traveller. From this point to the completion of the journey the road is almost level and as the fences are wide apart, and the trees have been left standing on each side of the macadamised highway, the drive is park like and beautiful. The coachman will put down the brake and bring the horses to a standstill at the door of Interlaken House, and his passengers will find that the cool, bracing air of the lakes, which are at an elevation of about 3,000 ft above sea level, has given them an appetite for the substantial meal Mrs. Sutton has prepared for them.

The trip by coach will not have made the tourist tired, and, after the appetite has been satisfied, Mr. Sutton will be found ready to point out and conduct the visitor to any portion of the lakes. Perhaps, however, the best thing to do on the day of arrival will be to look over the lakes from the spacious verandahs which surround the house, or stroll along the nearer beaches and on to one or two of the points close by, and arrange with Mr. Sutton where to go on the next day. There will be an entire absence of the heat, probably felt before leaving the country through which the railway runs, and as an instance of this, it may be stated that the writer who had spent the closing days of last, and the opening days of the present week at Interlaken, was surprised to find in the columns of ” The Mercury”, that the thermometer had registered 100 deg. in the sun at Hobart during that time. At the lakes the temperature had been from 25 to 30 degrees lower, and throughout each day cool breezes had blown across the surface of the waters. This, by the way, but to return to the visitor. The new arrival had been left with Mr. Sutton, the hills and bays were being pointed out and the western shore of Lake Sorell, Diamond Beach, with its quartz, cornelian, and agate pebbles, from which it takes its name, described. Further on, the point known as “Dog’s Head,” running boldly out into, the lake, would be seen, and arrangements made for a sail across the lake to visit this historic locality. For at this place may be seen portions of the residence of Thomas Francis Meagher, known to fame as ” Meagher of the Sword,” from the part he took in the Irish insurrection of1848. Here also Mitchel and Martin, two other State prisoners who had been banished with him, used to visit their brother in exile. These two lived at Bothwell, it being a condition of their parole that they should not live together. Mitchel in writing to a friend after one of his visits to Meagher gives such a graphic description, of Lake Sorell that it can, with advantage be introduced here. In his letter he said :—

“The air up in these regions seems to be even purer and more elastic than in other parts of the island, the verdure brighter, the foliage richer; and, as we float here at our ease,, we are willing to believe that no lake on earth is more beautious than Sorell. Not so  be-rhymed as Windermere is this Antarctic lake; neither does the Cockney tourist infest its waters, as he infests Loch Lomond or Killarney; not so famous in story as Regillus or Thrasymené in literature, as Como or Geneva, is our lake of the Southern woods. It flows not into its sister Lake Crescent with so grand a rush as Erie flings herself upon Ontario; neither do its echoes ring with a weird minstrelsy, as ring and will ring for ever, the mountain echoes of Katrine and Loch Achrey. But, en revanche, see the unbroken continent of mighty forest that clasps, us round here. On the north frowns the, peak called Cradle Mountain, with its grey precipices rising out of the rich foliage — one peak merely of the Great Western Tier rising not more than 1,000ft from the lake, but almost 4,000ft above the sea. Opposite, and further off, beyond the Crescent Lake, rises the grand Table Mountain. No signs of human life anywhere. No villas of Elizabethan, of Gothic, or of Grecian structure crown select building sites along the shore. . . . Why should not, Lake Sorell also be famous? Where gleams and ripples purer, glassier water, mirroring a brighter sky? Where does the wild duck find a securer nest than under thy tea-tree fringe, O, Lake of the South! And the snow-white swan that on  St Mary’s Lake floats double, swan and shadow’ does he float more placidly, or fling on the waters a more stately reflection from his, stately neck, than thou, jet black, proud-crested swan of the Antarctic forest waters? Some sweet singer shall be-rhyme the yet, beautiful Lake of the Woods. Tu quoque fontium eris nobilium. Haunted art thou now by native devils only; and pass holding shepherds whistle nigger melodies in thy balmy air. But spirits of the great and food, who are yet to be bred in this Southern Hemisphere, shall hover over thy wooded promontories in the years to come; every bay will have its romance (for the blood of man is still red, and pride and passion will yet make it burn and tingle until Time shall be no more): and the glancing of thy sunlit, moon beloved ripples shall flash through the dreams of poets yet unborn.” All that Mitchel wrote may have been of what he saw at the lake from the ground on which Interlaken House has been erected for the scene from this spot is sufficiently beautiful to call forth with words he has written.

Mitchel did not, however, when he wrote the above lines, name one-half of its individual beauties, for not a word was said about Mount Franklin, which rises clear up from the waters of the lake to a height about equal to the Cradle Mountain, nor does he speak of Mollyhawk’s Nightcap, a huge mountain with a peculiar outline formed by a multitude of peaks which stands out in the distance.

St. George’s Island, about 80 acres in extent, lies on the bottom of the lake, and here the visitor may see where Meagher made an attempt at fawning. Turning away from, Lake Sorell Mr. Sutton will show the small rivulet which connects its waters with those of Lake Crescent, and along which the boats are taken from one to the other. And, going  on to the island which stands in Lake Crescent, the visitor will see that this lake  although shallower and smaller-being about  30 miles in circumference, 15 miles less than  Sorell has many charming bays and points ,which are equally remarkable for the beautiful foliage which rises from tho water’s edge.

At the side farthest from Interlaken House the noble Table Mountain rears its massive presence right over the lake, and as there is a good track to the summit and only an hour is required to walk from the boat to that point, or say two hours to get there from the house, the visitor will take care that  he will not come away until he has made the ascent. Mr. Sutton will be able to show from the top of the straight ridge which terminates so abruptly against tho sky line, a vast extent of country, for within sight are the townships of Oatlands, Bothwell, Hamilton, Kempton, Brighton, Bridgewater, the rich valleys of the Jordan and the Derwent, and the whole scene is backed up by mountains bolder in outline and as grand and imposing in appearance as the Table Mountain itself. Looking back in the direction of the Lake she will see Ross and Campbell Town the vale of the Macquarie and the Lake River, with Ben Lomond, St. Paul’s Dome, and other mountains frowning in the distance, and towards the route of the Main Line Railway near Oatlands the placid waters of Lakes Dulverton and Tiberias will be seen.

Returning to the house the evening meal can be discussed and afterwards one can sit on the verandah lounges, and whilst enjoying a quiet smoke watch the moon rise over the waters of Lake Sorell a sight magnificent in itself and enjoy the balmy zephyrs which float in from the Lake. Or if the wind be, high he can find pleasure in watching the foam crested waves dash against the rugged rocky shores.

In the morning a short walk will take the visitor to an excellent spot for bathing, and ladies will find a bathing-house erected within easy distance from tho house to which they can be taken through the shallow water in a real old Irish jaunting car. After breakfast they will find everything in readiness for the picnic arranged tho night before, and if the boats are used, Mr. Sutton’s ability as a boatman will be very much appreciated. Those who are fond of sport will have noticed that both lakes swarm with wild ducks, teal, swans, and the peculiar platypus, whilst under the surface eels and the Californian trout, S. fontinalis, are abundant. The latter have sprung from a number liberated in the lakes some three years ago, by Messrs. A. H. Page and C. S. Agnew, and it has been found that the water is very suitable for them. On the land kangaroo, wallaby, hares, and opossums abound, so that he will be a strange sportsman who does not find satisfaction here.

When the visitor has seen all round Lakes Crescent and Sorell he can obtain a’ buggy and horses or ponies and make a trip to Laycock’s or Woods’ Lake distant about seven miles. This is said to be the most beautiful of all the lakes, as it is hemmed in by precipitous mountains except in two places,  where the Lake River, which rises from Arthur’s Lakes some few miles farther on, cuts its way into it on one side and out at the other. Then, after all, should he desire to visit the Great Lake a ride or drive of a little more than 20 miles from Interlaken takes the visitor to its shores, and Lake Echo is also within easy distance. Mr. Sutton keeps tents, hammocks, and blankets for those who desire to make the trip to the Great Lake or Lake Echo.

It will thus be seen that Interlaken is situated in a very central position, and one which enables the visitor to see at least five of the Tasmanian lakes without much trouble, and moreover offers the best facilities for getting to the Great Lake. The boats at present on Lakes Sorell and Crescent are both strong and roomy, the ponies and horses have been bred by Mr. Page, which is a sufficient guarantee of their excellence, and as this gentleman’s advice and assistance has been largely used in connection with every detail, it is unnecessary to say anything further in praise of the new undertaking. It is also pleasing to Mr. Page to see that the idea which he conceived and has seen put into practice, has already, met with public favour and if success continues to attend the enterprise another year will see everything on a much larger scale than now. Tho charges are moderate, the attention and general management good, and both Mr. and Mrs. Sutton are untiring in their efforts to please their patrons. With regard to postal communication there is at present a weekly mail from Tunbridge, but with a coach running twice weekly in the tourist season there is ample opportunity for increased facilities. Altogether by the establishment of Interlaken House invalids, tourists, and those engaged in business needing respite have now the opportunity of obtaining comfortable, quiet, and healthful enjoyment, and doubtless many will find cause to praise the originator.

Article identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9204189

Page identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page821905

APA citation

LAKES SORELL AND CRESCENT. (1889, January 4). The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), p. 4. Retrieved April 24, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9204189

MLA citation

“LAKES SORELL AND CRESCENT.” The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954) 4 Jan 1889: 4. Web. 24 Apr 2012 <http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article9204189>.

Lake Sorell Interlaken Tasmania

On Saturday a large party, headed by the Premier and Mr. Seager, chairman   of the Tasmanian Tourist Association, left Hobart by motor car for Interlaken for the purpose of opening the new accommodation house which has been erected there. The weather did not promise too well when the party got underway at about 6.30 in the morning.   A howling gale was blowing, and the sky was covered with ominous looking clouds, so that a rough time was expected when the Lake Country was reached.

About l8 people made the journey, about half the party being ladies, and excellent time was made until Oatlands was reached. Mr Romotch’s motor car went excellently, and as the weather had improved immensely pleasant trip to the lakes and a good time there were anticipated. Oatlands was reached about 10.30, and breakfast was partaken of, and the head of the car was turned towards the Interlaken road at about 11.30. Little need be said of the  trip from Hobart to Oatlands. It was accomplished in good time, despite the heavy wind hampering the car.

After leaving Oatlands there is a good road to Interlaken, though the constructors of it cannot be complimented upon the course which they pursued with it, or the manner in which they chose their grades. There is an old engineering saying that “God gave every place an outlet if man would only follow it,” but close observation of the Interlaken road shows convincingly that this principle has not been adhered to. Certainly the road, as it stands at present, is a good one for traps or buggies, but is not suitable for motor cars, unless the chauffeur has a reserve of four or five horse power which he can call into play on difficult pinches. A considerable part of the road surface is composed of loam, and if this is at all wet it provides very little grip for the wheels. Near Oatlands, the road winds through some good agricultural land, some rich basaltic country showing here and there. When the timber belt is entered, it is nothing but a succession of hills, some high and some low, some short and steep, others long and steep, but all calculated to thoroughly test the capabilities of the engine of the car. The scenery for a considerable part of the Journey has a remarkable sameness, though in summer time the foliage of the trees would afford a welcome relief to the eyes after the glare of the roadways. Here and there, at bends in the road, some striking glimpses of rolling tree covered hills can be obtained, but, for the most part, the view is circumscribed, and confined to the avenue like rows of gums which border the road.

A few miles from Interlaken the   thoroughfare travels through an avenue of dead trees. They stand like spectres on the roadside, and, their bare, gaunt arms are a menace in many cases to the passerby. The Tourist Association would do a wise thing if they turned their attention to lopping some of the dangerous ones, and so relieve the anxiety of those who use the road, particularly the people who have a liking for travelling on the roofs of motor cars. The last few miles of the Interlaken road are the worst, especially after wet weather. After the plateau is reached, miles of flat country, in which is situated Lakes Crescent and Sorell, with Interlaken between them, opens before the tourist. If he is travelling in a heavily laden motor car a long vista of trouble opens before him. A soft spot is struck, the car slackens,  and ultimately the wheels spin round without the vehicle moving an inch. The result is, all hands climb down, put their shoulders to the wheel, and push the car out of the gluepot by sheer strength. However, the whole party arrived safely, the accommodation house being reached at 2.30.

Mr. Elliston had an excellent dinner provided, after which the party devoted it’s time to fishing, shooting, and other pastimes. The weather was very fine and mild, and that beautiful expanse of water, Lake Sorell, was seen at its best. The accommodation house is situated, on the southern shore of the lake, and from its verandah the tourist can see a remarkable panorama. The lake is imprisoned by heavily timbered hills, and the view it presents is more reminiscent of an old world picture than a scene in the heart of the Australian bush. The same can be said of Lake Crescent. From a scenic point of view, those two sheets of water surpass anything in the island. The magnitude of the Great Lake, and the fish it contains, are its chief attractions; it has none of the surroundings of Lake Sorell and Lake Crescent; in fact, it might be said that its shores are forbidding.

The Tasmanian Tourist Association have acted wisely in placing the house where it is, and its existence will serve to give this part of Tasmania the popularity it deserves with the touring public. The house is of simple design, and is plainly but substantially built. It contains a fine dining room and seven bedrooms. The whole of the latter are neatly furnished, and not even the most fastidious could cavil at the  appointments, or the manner in which they are kept. The ceilings of all the rooms are of stamped steel, whilst the walls are covered with paper of neat design. The building and its surroundings offer a host of attractions to persons fond of scenic beauty, and to those who love to throw a line or handle a gun. The association could not have chosen a better man than Mr. Elliston for the position which he occupies, as he is a thorough bushman, fisherman, and sportsman generally, whilst Mrs. Elliston is an incomparable cook, and has the place beautifully arranged.

The house was officially declared open by the Premier at night. Mr. Seager (chairman of the Tasmanian Tourist Association), in calling upon him to perform the ceremony said that when the Tasmanian Tourist Association was formed some years ago, one of the first proposals was the establishment of an accommodation house in the Lake country. At that time the part selected was the Great Lake; but the confidence of the public was not so strong as it is at the present time. Some few years ago the Railway Department proposed to build a house at Interlaken. That proposal fell to the ground, but fortune, favoured the finances of the country, and, last year, the Premier, who had always taken an interest in the movement, placed at, the disposal of the Tourist Associations in the North and South of the State a sum of money to erect accommodation-houses at the  Great Lake and Interlaken. The house at the Great Lake was handed over to the management of the Northern Association, and the house at Interlaken, the house that they were opening that evening, was given to the Tasmanian Tourist  Association. They had been fortunate   in getting the full sympathy and support of the Evans administration in the work they had to do, end they were getting   monetary support from that Ministry.  Although they had the support of other Ministries, those Ministries had been unfortunate, from the fact that they had no surpluses at their disposal. The Premier was responsible for selecting the   site of the present house, as he had come up to Interlaken about two months ago, and fixed upon the spot. The building  was complete in every respect, and they were fortunate in being able to secure   the services of Mr. Elliston to manage it. He was sure that they would all agree with him in saying that the success of the accommodation house was assured. The attractions of the locality were very great; not only had they beautiful scenic surroundings, but the two lakes were thoroughly stocked with fish. About three years ago there was a controversy with the Commissioner of Fisheries as to whether there were fish in Lake Sorell; but that was, beyond dispute now. Fish now were being stripped at the other end of the lake, and this year 700,000 ova were sent to the hatcheries on the Plenty River. There was also   excellent sport generally around the lakes. The Northern Association were nearly ready with the house at the Great Lake, and when it was, occupied they would have the three lakes available for visitors who chose to come to the locality. Other things had to be accomplished when circumstances permitted, and when money was available. There were certain difficulties with regard to the roads, and no doubt their observations that day would load to improvements being effected, so that the traffic to the Lakes could not be hampered. He was sure that no one was better pleased than Mr. Evans at the success attending the experimental effort of spending money on such valuable works. The tourist movement had now become an important item to the State, as, outside the revenue it brought here, it also brought numbers of visitors, many of whom were doubtless induced to settle here. He hoped to hear that the Northern Association would shortly open their house at the Great Lake. He regretted very much that they were unable to have a representative of that association with them that day, but so many people were anxious to make the journey that that was impossible. Although 700,000 ova had been taken from the Lake, many of the fish hatched would be returned to the lake, and it was also probable that a   | hatchery would be established either at Lake Sorell or, at the Great Lake, so that   stocking would proceed systematically.

The Premier in declaring the house open said he was exceedingly pleased to be accorded that privilege. He had always taken a keen interest in tourist matters and the reason why he was so anxious to get the accommodation house started was because he had on many occasions come into contact with persons travelling to New Zealand who told him if such an establishment were erected here they would   forego the long journey to New Zealand   and come to Tasmania instead. As soon as the Government had money at its disposal the house was built. The tourist associations wale doing splendid work, and he was pleased to be with them, because they helped to advertise the State largely. He had however another reason for being present, and that was at the next general election the electors of the Lake district would be called upon to accept or reject him as their member. His electorate   extended from Recherche to Campbell Town, and if the people of the Interlaken district could not give him their first vote, he hoped they would give him their second, and, if not, he would have to be content with the third. (Laughter) In conclusion he wished the association every success with the house.

Mr. Elliston the manager of the house, speaking on behalf of his wife and himself said he thanked the Premier and the Tourist Association for their efforts in making the house a success. There were certain things which he desired to bring under the Premier’s notice, the principal of which was the matter of game preservation. The natural breeding places of game, such as ducks, swans, etc. were being destroyed simply because the Government leased certain swamps surrounding the lakes. One swamp in particular was Iet at a rental of about £3 per anmum; it was an excellent breeding place, but if things proceeded as at present, it would be totally destroyed and the game would desert it. Dealing with the matter of securing a close season for kangaroo, he recommended the killing of kangaroo to   be prevented for two years, and then the killing of wallaby for two years. He   hoped that the house would prove a success and that some effort would be made to preserve the game. (Hear hear )

Article identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12674022

Page identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page869734

APA citation

TRIP TO INTERLAKEN. (1908, September 14). The Mercury(Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), p. 5. Retrieved April 27, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12674022

MLA citation

“TRIP TO INTERLAKEN.” The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954) 14 Sep 1908: 5. Web. 27 Apr 2012 <http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12674022>.

Trout Lake Crescent Tasmania

TO THE EDITOR OF THE MERCURY- 18th November, 1876.

Sir, I am sure it will prove most gratifying to yourself, the Salmon Commissioners, and the public in general of Tasmania, as well, perhaps, to many in the neighbouring colonies, who favour our island with periodical visits, and are on angling “bent,” to be made acquainted with the fact that a splendid brown trout of the following dimensions, namely, length, 28 inches ; girth, 17½ inches ; and weight, 11¾ lbs., was caught yesterday morning, the 17^th November, in the waters of Lake Crescent in this district, by Mr. S. Arnett, one of our Bothwell councillors, who obligingly favoured me with a view of the fish this day, and furnished me with the particulars. On referring to the “Record” to ascertain how long since the young fry were deposited in the lake, I find in the municipal minute book, under date, ” September 3rd, 1870,” the following ” proposed by Councillor Reid seconded by Councillor Nioholas that this Council sanction the expense of obtaining some brown trout from the Salmon Commissioners in order to the stocking with the said fish, the rivers and lakes in the district, and that the Warden be requested to take steps for the furtherance of the said object.”

“Carried unanimously. ”

And on further reference, I find a resolution passed on the 1st December following, (Mr. Reid being the proposer and Mr. Arnett the seconder) that Mr. Quodling be allowed £2, and Constable Newall £1 for their expenses and trouble in bringing a quantity of brown trout from the “Plenty.” So that it is clear the young fry must have been put in the Lake sometime between those dates. Since writing the foregoing it occurred to me that Messrs. A. McDowall and A. Mandeville were commissioned by the Bothwell Municipal Council to procure some ”fry” from the Salmon Commissioners, and I find that the Warden, A. McDowall, Esq., reported to the Council on the 5th September, 1868, ” that the fish had been obtained and deposited, some in the Clyde River, and some in the Lake Crescent.” In conclusion, allow, me to quote the following, as showing Lord Byron’s opinion of trout fishing,

“And angling, too, that solitary vice,

Whatever Isaac Walton sings or says,

The quaint, old, cruel coxcomb, in his gullet

Should have a hook and a small trout to pull it.”

I am, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

M. ROBINSON, Bothwell

18th November, 1876.

Article identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8949261

Page identifier

http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page794784

APA citation

TROUT IN LAKE CRESCENT. (1876, November 20). The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954), p. 3. Retrieved April 26, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8949261

MLA citation

“TROUT IN LAKE CRESCENT.” The Mercury (Hobart, Tas. : 1860 – 1954) 20 Nov 1876: 3. Web. 26 Apr 2012 <http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article8949261>.

Located in the Meina, Great Lake, Arthurs Lake, Lake Sorell, Lake Crescent area of the Tasmanian Highlands

Located in Tasmania’s Great Lakes District in the central highlands are Lake Crescent and Lake Sorell, known as “two of the most beautiful lakes in the world” wrote a journalist for the Hobart Mercury in 1899.

On the shores of Lake Crescent historically renowned for its prime trophy fishing, is a unique opportunity to purchase this 56 acre lake front acreage property.  Records reveal how young fry from the Salmon Commissioners at Plenty were first deposited into Lake Crescent in the 1860’s and healthy stocks were maintained over the decades. Several years ago Inland Fisheries conducted a species management program, resulting in the closure of the lake to anglers but since then Lake Crescent has been restocked with trout and is set to become an angler’s paradise once more.

The location of “The Dunes” has particular historical significance, being just a few short minutes from the once iconic health resort, Interlaken House established as a sanatorium by Mr Algernon H. Page of Anstey Barton in the late 1880’s. Their guest’s were treated to first class accommodation, recreational pursuits including the use of pleasure boats, ponies rides, horse and buggy excursions, tennis plus indoor and outdoor games. Journalists for the Mercury reveal “Interlaken House offers considerably more, and in the course of a year or so when its advantages become known it will probably be the most popular resort in Australasia”.

With such breathtaking scenery and temperate climate it is no wonder why historical figure John Mitchel in the early 1850’s described “the air up in these regions seems to be even purer and more elastic than in other parts of the island, the verdure brighter, the foliage richer; and, as we float here at our ease, we are willing to believe that no lake on earth is more……” during one of his many visits to friend and former Irish revolutionary Thomas Meagher’s who resided on the shores of the adjacent Lake Sorell.

Imagine capturing the morning mist as it lingers above the lake, or the afternoon sunrays beaming through cloudy skies, captured and reflected on the lake’s surface, or experiencing the lake’s raw energy on a blustery day, what a priceless opportunity to share with nature these experiences when you purchase this lakefront acreage property.

With its gently slopes, open pasture, 1.0 km lake frontage and sandy beaches, what better place to be, to establish your own private family heath retreat or private escape, the recreational opportunities are endless!

Lake Crescent Interlaken Tasmania

The Dunes –  Lake Crescent Interlaken Tasmania

Located in Tasmania’s Great Lakes District in the central highlands are Lake Crescent and Lake Interlaken, known as “two of the most beautiful lakes in the world” wrote a journalist for the Hobart Mercury in 1899.

On the shores of Lake Crescent is a unique opportunity to purchase lake frontage historically renowned for its prime trophy fishing. Records reveal how young fry from the Salmon Commissioners at Plenty were deposited into Lake Crescent during the late 1860’s, resulting in a healthy stock of brown trout. Since that time Inland Fisheries have been conducting species management programs, and with the recent restocking Lake Crescent is set to become an angler’s paradise once more.

The location of The Dunes have particular historical significance, being just a few short minutes from the once iconic health resort, Interlaken House established as a sanatorium by Mr Algernon H. Page of Anstey Barton in the late 1880’s. There guest’s were treated to first class accommodation and recreational pursuits including the use of pleasure boats, ponies rides  and  horse and buggy excursions. Journalists for the Mercury reveal “Interlaken House offers considerably more, and in the course of a year or so when its advantages become, known it will probably be the most popular resort in Australasia”.

With such breathtaking scenery and cool climate it is not wonder why historical figure John Mitchel in the early 1850’s described “the air up in these regions seems to be even purer and more elastic than in other parts of the island, the verdure brighter, the foliage richer; and, as we float here at our ease, we are willing to believe that no lake on earth is more……” during on one of his many visits to friend and former Irish revolutionary Thomas Meagher’s cabin on the shores of the adjacent Lake Sorell.

With its gently slopes, open pasture, 1.0 km lake frontage and sandy beaches, what better place to be, to establish your own private family heath retreat or private escape. Capturing the morning mist as it lingerings above the lake, or the evening mirrored image onto the lake of sun rays beaming through cloudy skies, the opportunities are endless!

Roslyn Homestead Near Hobart

Roslyn is a Grand Old Country Homestead with an imposing 59 sq home set on 22 undulating acres. With views over the historic Derwent valley the vista has an ever changing seasonal landscape that one could never tire of. The image of distant mountains coupled with a foreground of hop fields and poplars, accompanied by the docile rhythmic movement of the homesteads small heard of grazing cattle, and the scent of the hundred year old magnolias, inspires the senses and conjures up a romantic tranquillity within.

Roslyn homestead is nestled within the picturesque Derwent Valley. The region is renowned for its hop farms, with Bushy Park considered the hop growing capitol of Australia. The alluring Derwent Valley is the gateway to Mt Field National Park and the Western Tasmania World Heritage Area and is comprised of fertile land, rolling green hills, lush lakes and flowing rivers.

The original house was constructed by William Blyth Esq. in 1859 and with latter editions total 59 squares (555 sq.m’s). The building was strategically built at the foothills sheltering it from both the southerly and westerly winds. The buildings unique architectural style of Victorian Free Gothic, with its two storey twin gabled design, is recognised by the Tasmania Heritage Council as a significant example of an historical structure and as an important component of the rural landscape of the region.

Roslyn previously formed part of the Bushy Park Estate and since its construction, has been home to six families. Current owners Catherine and Alistair visited Tasmania for a holiday and stayed for a lifestyle enjoying all that Roslyn has to offer for more than 9 years. With its seven bedrooms, three bathrooms, spacious farm kitchen, numerous fireplaces, formal and informal living areas as well as a generous sized stable and machinery shed, dam and the benefit of town water, Roslyn makes an ideal family home.

The natural charm of this heritage building accompanied by the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscape captivates all that have the pleasure of visiting and living on this unique slice of paradise.

Victorian Georgian Tasmania

Melton Manor located in the Tasmanian southern midlands is a sprawling complex over 3 levels on 6149m² that can be enjoyed either as a magnificent residence or as serviced guest accommodation. Since its construction in the mid 19th century the Melton Manor host’s have accommodated military, landed gentry, government officials as well as transported convicts. The convicts not faring at all well as they were secured in an underground cell devoid of any facilities or light which was the norm during the period of history.
Melton Manor was regarded amongst the esteemed as a prominent destination for race horse and hound hunt enthusiasts and was renowned for hosting such events. Mr, Blackwell (the original owner) was revered for his sporting accomplishments amongst peers and was often sought for coaching.
In the early 20th century a ballroom was constructed which was beacon to the districts residents and enhanced Melton Manor’s popularity as an entertainment venue and travellers retreat. The current plan (as a tavern) on the ground floor allows for multiple configurations which could easily allow for transformation to its elegant past.
There is spacious accommodation on levels two and three providing 9 bedrooms as well as a fully self contained apartment with living room, double bedroom, kitchen and laundry. There are additional rooms to facilitate storage, linen and laundry supplies.
There is no denying that this imposing heritage building, located just off the Historical Midland Highway and only 60 minutes from Hobart could form an iconic residence and guest house once more.

National Trust Cottage - Oatlands Tasmania

National Trust Cottage+Modern Residence+Old Museum Outbuildings

This Old Colonial Georgian Sandstone Cottage c1840’s is conjoined to a modern brick Caretakers Residence. The property boasts a large storage and multiple bay shed, numerous outbuildings all on 2200m2 with additional rear access right of way.

The property was previously owned by the National Trust and operated as a transport and agricultural museum. Since then the Sandstone Cottage has undergone partial restoration works while the Caretakers Residence has provided rental accommodation. It is reputed that the residence is constructed of relocated bricks from an old cottage at Ellesmere, Jericho, while the stone facing at the front of National Trust Cottage remains an excellent example of Oatlands historical masonry workmanship.

The property has been landscaped including extensive plantings, paving, terracing and fencing, although all now in need of further maintenance and restoration.

Mt Wellington Cable Car Proposal

As far as natural landmarks go, nothing could be more commanding than Tasmainas’ Mt Wellington. Dominating the southern landscape, its pinnacle gazes upon Hobarts’ idyllic city life and southern waterways, casting sights east across Derwent Estuary and west towards the World Heritage area some 100 kms away. The view from Hobart is awe-inspiring to say the least, its dominance holds steadfast with prominent natural features including the cliff of dolerite columns known locally as the Organ Pipes.

Charles Darwin saw the same magnificence whilst visiting Hobart Town in 1836 noting in The Voyage of the Beagle how “the broken land and water, forming many intricate bays, was mapped with clearness before us. …” The mountain remained a popular resort destination throughout the 20th century, despite many recreational cabins across the lower slopes being all but destroyed by bushfire.

In 1930 with the depression bitting hard, Tasmania’s Premier Mr A.G.Ogilvie initiated a capital works programme to cater for swelling unemployment numbers through the construction of a road to the summit of Mt Wellington. Pinnacle Drive was officially opened in August 1937 by then Governor Sir Ernest Clark and for some time was known amongst locals as ‘Ogilvie’s Scar’, a sentiment reflecting the heavy logging that was taking place in turn exposing the chiselled out road.
With Pinnacle Drive neatly tucked away once more, the sentiment behind Ogilvie’s Scar has since shifted to represent the easement supplying power to the radio and television ‘Line of Site’ transmission towers. Today two large concrete and steel transmission towers and other smaller dishes blight the landscape of the summit for the purpose of serving the digital needs of most 21st century Hobartians.

Mt Wellington is Tasmania’s fourth most popular tourist attraction drawing in over 300,000 visitors annually and is a must do for tourists and locals alike. The mountain holds the strain of major traffic congestion during peak periods, and at times becomes inaccessible by conventional transport due to inclement weather.

In 2009 Wellington Park Management Trust called for public submissions for alternative modes of transport to the pinnacle which included a shuttle bus service, light rail and a cable car. The resulting Sustainable Transport System report identified walking, private cars, and mini-buses as the preferred modes of transport.

It would be difficult for an economic model that would support buses, as there can be no comparison made between the system of scheduled bus services which operate at Ben Lomond and Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain caters for medium stay tourists, whereas Mt Wellington visitors are ad hoc part-day trippers who take the short 22 k drive from Hobart, subject to weather conditions, seven days a week year round.

Light rail was mooted by the 2010 candidate for the seat of Dennison. Ms Ogilvie conceptualised a funicular or incline railway from The Springs to the top of Mt Wellington stating “a funicular railway would be less visually intrusive than the cable car proposals that had been put forward for the mountain in the past” and would provide all weather access.
The cable car vision has been idle for some time. A developer in 1993 proposed the cable works be accompanied by a revolving restaurant and artificial ski field which received support by the then state tourism minister, Peter Hodgman. At that time the Greens Party and Friends of Mt Wellington strongly opposed the development, and called for thorough public consultation and a need to explore all of the alternatives. Needless to say the cable cars are yet to get off the ground.

In early 2010 leader of the opposition Will Hodgman spoke out in favour of an environmentally sensitive cable car system, provided it met criteria established by the Mt Wellington Park Trust. However, it has been reported that chairperson for the Trust stated that ‘current plans didn’t allow for cable cars on the pinnacle and an amendment would have to be subject to a feasibility study to determine whether community attitudes have changed.’

To encourage public debate, architectural visualisation studio Bold Impressions, launched a well produced animation of the potential cable car project tiled ‘Hobart Cable Car – It’s Time’ which can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqRdORoOTpY .

May 2011 saw the release of the Tasmanian Legislative Council report on tourism with part of the study concluding that a properly planned and designed cable car scheme for Mt Wellington had the potential to enhance regional tourism.
Taking a look interstate you soon stumble across the Northern Queensland Skyrail Rainforest Cableway announcement of 1994 that saw passions rage over a proposed development through sensitive rainforest between Cains and Kuranda. The project since completed has taken out 24 state, national and international awards in the categories of Tourism and Sustainability.

Most notable among the Skyrail Cableways international accolades include winner of the 1996 EIBTM European Greening of Business Tourism Award for ‘Most Environmentally Conscious Visitor Attraction’ to the 1999 Winner for the Wet Tropics Management Authority Cassowary Award and then there was the 2000 Winner for British Airways ‘Tourism for Tomorrow’ International Environment Award. The once controversial Skyrail Cableway is now a best practice model for ecotourism right from the construction phase through to ongoing operations. North Queensland is now renowned for providing a high quality rainforest ecotourism experience for hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

If the task at hand is to ensure durable access to Mt Wellington’s splendour year round, the paramount objective should be for Mt Wellington Trust management preservation schemes to accommodate innovative projects, if indeed they achieve the smallest ecological footprint. Logically, Hobart stands to benefit in more ways than one by embracing cutting edge proposals, be they conventional or not, in order to heal some of the visible scars and restore a healthy balance between mountain and man.