Hobart
More about Hobart:
Hobart is the capital of the Australian island state of Tasmania. Apart from being the most populous city of Australia, Hobart is also Australia’s second oldest capital city after Sydney. Situated on the estuary of the Derwent River, this city is dominated by mountains, rivers, rainforests and cliffs. Overall, Hobart has access to n number of beaches.
Climatic conditions in Hobart are somewhat mild temperate oceanic in nature. Snowfall is predominantly seen on the adjacent Mount Wellington. However, there are no traces of snow in the city even during the winters. Summers in Hobart are warm coupled with low levels of precipitation. The months of June and July are wet and cool in this city.
Right from the year 1996, population of Hobart is seen increasing at a steady rate. This trend is expected to continue in years to come. In this city, number of people falling in the age group of 65 years and more is the highest. Though majority of people residing in this city are indigenous, a few have been born overseas, in countries such as United Kingdom, New Zealand and China. A major section of people living in Hobart, practice no religion at all. This is followed by people belonging to religions such as Anglican, Catholic, Uniting Church, Presbyterian and Baptist.
The main campus of University of Tasmania located in Sandy Bay is based in Hobart. Popular colleges of this city include the Christ College, Jane Franklin Hall and St John Fisher College. Apart from this, there are few other educational institutions situated in areas such as Launceston and Burnie.
The sole public transportation service available in Hobart is Metro Tasmania, which is funded by the Tasmanian Government. Apart from this, there are few other bus services offered by private entities. There was a time when commuter ferry service operated in Hobart in full swing. However, due to insufficient Government funding coupled with lack of interest by private bodies, commuter ferry services have seen an end in this city. Hobart International Airport is the city’s sole airport that offers flight services to cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Gold Coast.
The five free to air television stations in Hobart include ABC1, SBS One, Southern Cross Television, WIN Television and Tasmanian Digital Television. Each of these stations is known for broadcasting one primary channel coupled with a number of other channels. The commercial radio stations operative over Hobart include, Heart 107.3, Hit 100.9 and 7HO FM. Apart from this there are few other active local community radio stations.
Highlights of Hobart:
Architecture is what stands out in the city of Hobart. The well preserved historic architecture in Hobart gives this city an “Old World” feel. In order to have a look at the historic homes and mansions located in this city, one needs to pay a visit to the suburban areas. Similarly, if taking a look at heritage buildings in Hobart is on your priority list, then heading to Salamanca Place should suffice. A wide range of historic churches are based in this city. However, the number of high rise buildings in Hobart is somewhat low as compared to other cities of Australia, the reason being the city’s proximity to both the Derwent River and Mount Wellington.
The most popular sport of Hobart is Cricket. Two popular cricket teams of the city are the Tasmanian Tigers, which play home games at the Bellerive Oval and Hobart Hurricanes, which represent the city in the Big Bash League. Bellerive Oval is known for producing world class players, one of whom is the former Australian captain, Ricky Ponting. In spite of the popularity that Australian Rules football has garnered, the city has no team to represent in the Australian football league. Hobart has two Hockey teams, one men’s and one woman’s. This city also has two rugby league football teams.
Hobart’s economy has a heavy dependence on the sea, making it an extremely busy seaport. During summers, this city turns into a hub for cruise ships. Tourism has become a major source of revenues for this economy. Similarly, the wine industry in this city is seen coming up at a rapid rate with more and more vineyards setting base in the countryside areas of Hobart.
Places to visit in Hobart:
South Bruny National Park: Away from the hustle bustle of the city is this truly scenic, South Bruny National Park. Right from coastal cliffs to secluded beaches, you have all of this out here. Once at this location, you will be in a position to better acquaint yourself with the flora and birdlife indigenous to Tasmania. At this park, you can stroll through the lush rainforest, collect shells by the sea or even take dips in one of the many sheltered swim areas.
Cascade Brewery: If beer tasting is on your list, then this 180 year old historic destination has tons in store for you. At this place, you can closely view the brewing process, which is a part of the 1.5 hour tour inside this brewery. A lot of stair climbing included, which is exactly why dressing up comfortably and sporting flats becomes a must. Don’t forget to visit the landscaped gardens surrounding this brewery.
