Smithton, Tasmania: Travel guide and things to do

Located on the Tasmanian north coast 135 km from Devonport and 86 km from Burnie, Smithton is primarily an industrial and administrative centre for the surrounding district. It has a large and successful timber mill and a potato processing plant. While these might seem inconsequential they are central to the economic success of the town.

There is some dispute about the origins of the town's name with some sources suggesting Peter Smith, a policeman who arrived in the area in 1855, while others claim that James 'Philosopher' Smith, who was responsible for the development of much of western Tasmania, was the inspiration.

The Smithton area was first explored by Europeans when Bass and Flinders passed along the northern coast of Van Diemen's Land in 1793. By 1825 the area was occupied by the entrepreneurial Van Diemen's Land Co. The Duck River, around which the town has grown, was explored in 1826 but the river banks weren't settled until the 1850s. It was shortly afterwards that the town's prosperity was given a major injection by the Victorian goldrushes. Local produce, particularly timber, was shipped across Bass Strait to meet the huge demands of the miners who were pouring on to the goldfields.

By 1880 Smithton had its own school and by 1904 the industry in the area had diversified sufficiently for the Duck River Butter Factory (to meet the requirements of local dairy farmers) to be built.

Things to see

Allendale Gardens
Located on the road to Edith Creek, Allendale Gardens are an interesting mixture of rainforest, botanic gardens and pleasant walkways. For details of opening hours and facilities contact (03) 6456 4216 or check out: http://www.allendalegardens.com.au/

Lacrum Dairy
The area's famed dairy industry can be inspected at the Lacrum Dairy at Mella which is 6 km from Smithton. It is possible to watch the afternoon milking session and to taste some of the cheeses produced. Contact (03) 6452 1400 for more details.

In the District
Smithton is the last major township on the north coast and the visitor who stays there may well want to visit the Milkshakes Hills Forest Reserve which is located 45 km south of the town. It is an interesting mixture of button grass (which turns the creeks a tea colour) and virgin temperate rainforest.

Woolnorth
Woolnorth is located near the northwest extremity of Tasmania. It is still owned by the Van Diemen's Land Company which acquired the land in 1825. It is the last Royal Charter Company in the world. There are bus tours from Smithton which can be booked by contacting (03) 6452 1493 or check out:http://www.woolnorthtours.com.au/