If you have an interest in maritime history, then the Maritime Museum of Tasmania is a great place to spend an hour. Located next to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and opposite Constitution dock it is easy to get to.
During our visit, the second floor was undergoing renovations, which meant we missed some displays. The remaining area was still interesting as it covered Tasmania’s maritime history.
One of the more interesting displays was a model of the Tasman Bridge disaster. This occurred on 5 January 1975 when a bulk ore carrier collided with bridge pylons, causing a section of the bridge to collapse. Seven crew and five drivers from four cars were killed when they drove off the bridge and fell 45m to the water below. The model shows the SS Lake Illawarra lying on the river bottom with bridge debris covering her.
Tasmania’s contribution to Antarctic exploration has been significant, due to its proximity. A model of the exploration ship Nella Dan commemorates these achievements.
Other displays included interesting figureheads and boats, along with more models ships and photos.
The dog line was established to prevent prisoners escaping the Port Arthur penal site. The narrowest point on Eaglehawk Neck was chosen and dogs were spaced here held in place by chains.
The only indication that the dogs were here is a life sizes bronze sculpture. The dog certainly looks vicious, baring its teeth while looking huge.
Parking is not obvious with the sign only visible as you are leaving the peninsula. In this case you make a right turn into the old officer’s quarters where a community hall now stands.
This was a quick but fun visit to see a remnant of the past. Including the walk from the car park we only stayed about ten minutes.
The World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site contains over 30 buildings and extensive ruins. The listing reflects its importance to the story of forced migration and settlement of Australia. Primarily a penal settlement, Port Arthur also encompassed a wider community including military and civilian officers and their families. The preserved buildings and ruins tell the story of life in the early years of colonisation.
How To Get There and Parking
Located on the Tasman Peninsula, a 90-minute drive from Hobart, Port Arthur is an easy day trip. However, we chose to stay on the peninsula to see other attractions.
Several carparks at the end of the access road cater for cars and camper vans. During peak times additional room is available once the main ones are full, although there will be a slightly longer walk to the entrance.
Entry is by ticket only, but this includes a guided tour and boat trip. These are not compulsory, and you are able to walk at your own pace to explore the site if you want.
During our visit in June 2021 ticket cost was $40 per adult.
Port Arthur Historic Site
The Penitentiary
Originally built as a flour mill in 1845, insufficient water led to its conversion to a penitentiary in 1857. The current state of the building was caused by a bushfire which only left the masonry walls and barred windows.
Undertaken from 2012 to 2018, a conservation project has stabilised the building, while adding internal flooring and supports. There are Information boards detailing the operation of the building.
As you can see from the photos, it was a wet and rainy day, which added to the atmosphere of the site and its gloomy past.
The Penitentiary
Inside The Penitentiary
Inside The Penitentiary
Looking Out of The Penitentiary
Remains of The Penitentiary
Guard Tower
The guard tower gives a great view over the rest of the site, particularly the law courts located next door. Looking like a European castle, the guard tower stands above the penitentiary which gave the guards a great view.
Guard Tower
The Law Courts
Any convicts breaking the regulations governing the settlement were sentenced at the law courts. The façade is interesting with its windows and arches, despite its damaged interior.
Remains of the Law Courts
Remains of the Law Courts
The Asylum
Built for the mental health care of convicts in the early 1860s, this building was later used as the town hall. Today it contains a display of artefacts found on site as well as prisoner uniforms.
The Asylum – Later the Town Hall
Prisoner’s Uniform on Display Inside The Asylum
Display Inside The Asylum
The ChurchPort Arthur Historic Site
With only the walls and tower intact, the church, which was built in 1837 is a reminder of the importance of religion in convict reform. Up to 1100 people would attend services here on Sundays. To allow multi-denominational services, the church was never consecrated.
Ruins of the Church
Inside the Ruins of the Church
Ruins of the Church
What Did We Think?
We enjoyed our visit here, with the unpredictable Tasmanian weather adding to the atmosphere. Although we did not take the boat tour, our walk through the ruins was great, so don’t be put off by the weather. As one of Australia’s premier European historical sites it’s a must visit for anyone going to Tasmania.
