TASPort & river
Launceston
A northern colonial base at the meeting of rivers.
1806Northern settlement moves to the present site
WHAT STARTED IT
Launceston developed when the northern settlement at Port Dalrymple shifted inland to the junction of the North and South Esk rivers. The surrounding country offered better prospects for farming, while the Tamar connected the settlement with shipping.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
Paterson’s settlers reached the present site in 1806 after attempts nearer the Tamar’s mouth. Launceston became an administrative and commercial centre for northern Tasmania. Its port, industries and agricultural hinterland supported growth, with municipal government beginning in 1853. UNESCO designated Launceston a Creative City of Gastronomy.
TURNING POINTS
1806Settlement moves to the present Launceston site.
1853The first municipal council meets.
2021UNESCO designated Launceston a Creative City of Gastronomy.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A northern regional city with education, health services, food businesses and tourism. Riverfront industrial buildings and the Cataract Gorge connect the modern city with its physical setting.