TASFarming
Scottsdale
Surveyed forest country became a dairy-and-potato town.
1858District surveyed · north-east farm centre
WHAT STARTED IT
Surveyor James Scott’s route and survey opened fertile north-east country to farming and timber work. A settlement known as Ellesmere grew to serve selectors clearing and cultivating the district.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The district was surveyed in 1858–59. Rail reached the town in 1889 and the official name Scottsdale followed in 1893. Dairying, potatoes, forestry and local processing underpinned later growth.
TURNING POINTS
1858–59District surveyed as Scott’s New Country.
1889Railway arrives.
1893Town officially named Scottsdale.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
The principal service town of north-east Tasmania, supporting farms, forestry businesses, schools and visitors travelling between Launceston and the coast.