Tasmania is internationally renowned for its old growth forests. These are truly incredible places that have rare species of trees and animals that have survived in this remote and ecologically distinct environment. The picture on the right is from the Huon valley in the south west of the island.

These beautiful rock formations are in the cataract gorge area of Launceston. This was a favourite walk for the Victorians who built up Launceston and made the gorge area accessible and pleasurable for walkers. It is also used by amateur rock climbers who may try their skills out on the fairly straightforward climbs in the gorge. The whole area may be used by families and strollers to pass a great afternoon close to the city of Launceston yet in a tranquil and natural place.

This blow hole is in the east coast town of Bicheno. We arrived the morning after a storm, so the blow hole was doing its stuff to full effect! The east coast is generally drier and warmer than the rest of Tasmania, and with wonderful white beaches and surf it is an attractive tourist destination. We stayed at St. Helen's, which is about an hour along the coast.