The Salmon Ponds – the early European settlers introduced salmon, largely because of the popularity of fishing but also because of the unexpected economic benefits. After a number of failed attempts to transport them, the first live salmon and a small number of trout eggs arrived at these ponds in 1864. The Salmon Ponds, circa 1861, is the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere.

Russell Falls – was once known as Browning Falls after its discovery in 1856. It is approximately 58 metres in total height (a tiered-cascade waterfall found on Russell Creek in the Central Highlands region, Tasmania).

Westerway Raspberry Farm – situated on the fertile river flats of the Tyenna River, running through the Derwent Valley in Tasmania’s rugged Western Wilderness region. Locally owned and operated by the Clark family. It has been supplying thousands of kilograms of berries to Tasmanian and Australian markets for over ten years. The farm has over 150 acres of land under berry and soft fruit production.

You are picked up from your accommodation at 10:00am. Your first experience is a drive through two of Hobart’s southern suburbs, that are located immediately south of the central business district – Sandy Bay and Battery Point.

Sandy Bay is bounded on the east by the Derwent River and has several swimming beaches (with public access) – Nutgrove and Long Beach, being the two main beaches. Australia’s first legal casino was opened in 1973 at the site of the former Wrest Point Riviera Hotel.

Battery Point is one of Tasmania’s older established suburbs, the first home built there was in 1805 and many beautifully restored cottages adorn the streets today. Battery Point was named after the battery of guns which were established on the point in1818 as part of Hobart’s coastal defences (a park stands there today). The guns were only fired for ceremonial events. The main street of Hampden Road is home to some of Hobart’s best restaurants and cafes, art and gift shops.

Your journey continues with a 35-minute drive north of Hobart to embrace a Tasmanian wildlife experience at Bonorong (derived from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘native companion’). Bonorong Sanctuary provides an opportunity to be as close as possible to native wildlife (some that are now extinct in other parts of Australia) – it’s truly special! The Bonorong team protectively rescue wildlife in connected environments and communities. You will be part of a tour around the wildlife sanctuary by the keepers – you’ll visit the wombat, devil and echidna enclosures, be given information and an up-close experience.

From Bonorong your tour will continue up towards the unique Derwent Valley (this is 45 minutes from Hobart and classified a as a rural local government area – full of wilderness, history and surprises). You’ll journey through one of the main townships of New Norfolk to arrive at the Salmon Ponds heritage Hatchery and Gardens. A delicious lunch awaits at their Café – they are renowned for their pancakes and crepes! After lunch enjoy a walk around historic buildings, hatcheries and fish ponds – all set in a 19^th century, English style public open space. If you are lucky while visiting you may catch a glimpse of our local wild platypus. The platypus is a semi-aquatic mammal that lays eggs and is only found in eastern Australia.

Lunch not Included: Please pay for your meals

Next stop is to Russell Falls at Mt Field National Park The falls are about a 20-minute walk in, on a safe bush track to view. There is a round trip walk of approximately 1 hour to enjoy the unique bush, towering swamp gums, the tallest flowering plant on earth and species typical of wet forests and cool temperate rainforests. Russell Falls are superbly picturesque to say the least. A very memorable experience and a wonderful photo opportunity.

From early December to late January a short but very sweet treat awaits, after Russell Falls, with a visit to the nearby Westerway Raspberry Farm – to purchase the freshest, local berries at the Farm Gate Shop. Probably the most flavoursome you’ve ever tasted!

After a day full of adventure sit back and enjoy the relaxing ride back to your accommodation at approximately 5:30/6:00pm.

• Umbrellas
• First Aid Box
• Fire Extinguisher