Jump to content

Devonport, Tasmania

Coordinates: 41°10′48″S 146°21′01″E / 41.18000°S 146.35028°E / -41.18000; 146.35028
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Devonport
Limilinaturi (Northern Tasmanian)
City
From top; left to right: Devonport aerial, Rooke Street, Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, Home Hill estate, Heritage Walk Track, Spirit of Tasmania I
Devonport is located in Tasmania
Devonport
Devonport
Coordinates: 41°10′48″S 146°21′01″E / 41.18000°S 146.35028°E / -41.18000; 146.35028
CountryAustralia
StateTasmania
LGA
Location
Established1850
Government
 • State electorate
 • Federal division
Elevation
9 m (30 ft)
Population
 • Total26,150 (2021)[2] (46th)
Time zoneUTC+10 (AEST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC+11 (AEDT)
Postcode
7310
Mean max temp17.0 °C (62.6 °F)[3]
Mean min temp8.3 °C (46.9 °F)[3]
Annual rainfall773.0 mm (30.43 in)[3]

Devonport (/ˈdɛvənpɔːrt/ DEV-ən-port;[4] pirinilaplu/palawa kani: Limilinaturi)[5] is a port city situated at the mouth of the Mersey River on the north-west coast of Tasmania, Australia. Positioned 47 kilometres (29 mi) east of Burnie and 98 kilometres (61 mi) north of Launceston, its harbour manages over half of Tasmania's imports and exports, standing as the busiest freight port on the island.[6] Devonport also plays a central role in Tasmania's trade sector, supporting industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The City of Devonport's gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $3.5b in 2023.[6][7]

The city is home to the Spirit of Tasmania's passenger terminal, facilitating roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ferry operations connecting mainland Australia and Tasmania since July 1985. In the 2022–23 fiscal year, the Port of Devonport welcomed over 450,000 passengers.[8] The completion of the $240m Quaylink project is expected to increase this capacity by an additional 160,000 passengers annually.[6][9]

Devonport was established in 1893 through the amalgamation of the 1850s settlements of Torquay on the east bank and Formby on the west bank of the Mersey River. The township became a municipality in 1907[10] and was designated a city by Prince Charles on 21 April 1981.[11] Devonport holds the status of Tasmania's third-largest city, with an urban population of 26,150 at the 2021 Australian census,[2] encompassing a total of 48,293 residents living within the greater statistical area.[12]

Despite its relatively small size, Devonport has facilitated business for many pioneering industries that achieved notable success on a national scale. Circa 1901, the Finlayson family foundry, known for its innovation,[13] engineered what is believed to be the first steam car in the Southern Hemisphere.[14][15][16] Similarly, family members of shipping company Holyman & Sons played a pivotal role in establishing the first airline connecting Bass Strait in 1934 as Holyman Airways, which eventually evolved into Australian National Airways and subsequently merged with Ansett.[17][18][19]

Devonport holds a significant place in Australian political history as the home town of both Joseph Lyons, the tenth Prime Minister of Australia, and his wife, Dame Enid Lyons. Dame Enid made history as the first woman elected to the House of Representatives and the first woman to serve in the federal cabinet. Enid lived at the family residence, "Home Hill" until her death in 1981. Recognised for its historical significance, Home Hill has become a popular tourist destination and is registered with the National Trust of Australia.[20]

History

[edit]

Early inhabitants

[edit]
See also: Bass Strait § By Aboriginal peoples

The area now known as Devonport lies within the traditional country of several Palawa/Pakana (Tasmanian Aboriginal) groups associated with the North Nations. These included the punnilerpanner people of Panatana (Port Sorell), the Pallittorre of Lartitickitheker (Quamby Bluff), the Noeteeler of Ningherner or Parteenno (Hampshire Hills), and the Plairhekehillerplue of Emu Bluff.[21]

The Mersey Valley, including Panatana and the Devonport area, was an important gathering place, rich in resources such as birdlife, plant foods, and weaving materials.[22] Seasonal activities included the harvesting of swan and duck eggs along the Mersey River in early spring.[22]

British colonisation of northern Lutruwita (then known as Van Diemen's Land) began in the 1820s with the expansion of the Van Diemen's Land Company and the granting of large pastoral estates such as North Down placed pressure on indigenous populations through the disruption of river and valley corridors.[21] By the twentieth century, no known direct descendants of the original groups of this region survived.[21] Today, the broader Palawa/Pakana community continues to maintain cultural and custodial responsibilities for the entire island.[21]

European settlement before 1850

[edit]

Exploration of the Mersey River was undertaken in 1823, however initial observations by the British were unfavourable. Following the arrival of the Van Diemen's Land Company in 1826, the district underwent further exploration and surveying. Settlers commenced arriving later in the same year.[23] Indigenous resistance to settlement was evident, leading to the killing of Captain Bartholomew Boyle Thomas on 31 August 1831.[24]

The first European settlement in the Devonport region, predating 1850, was established on a block of land at Frogmore, near present-day Latrobe. It was a modest beginning that set the stage for future developments.[25]

Arrival of settlers and economic growth (1850–1870s)

[edit]

In 1850, the arrival of a settler named Oldaker marked the establishment of present-day Devonport. Saw milling and coal mining gained momentum with the arrival of English settlers aboard the sailing ship Balmoral in 1854.[26] During the 1850s, twin settlements, Formby and Torquay, emerged on opposite banks at the mouth of the Mersey River.[27] Torquay, the larger of the two, thrived with various amenities, including police, post offices, magistrate services, hotels, shipyards, and stores. A river ferry service connected Formby and Torquay.[28]

Between 1870 and 1880, the shipping industry experienced growth, leading to efforts to deepen the mouth of the river.[25] This development facilitated the commencement of regular steamer services between the Mersey and Melbourne.[29]

Key developments (1880s–1900s)

[edit]
Mersey Bluff Lighthouse at sunset, 2015

In 1882, construction began on the Marine Board building, which remains a prominent landmark in the city. The completion of the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse in 1889 further improved maritime safety along the north-west coast. At the turn of the century, the arrival of the railway brought major changes to the Formby area, combining railhead and port facilities that spurred a period of rapid growth and building activity.[30][31]

In 1890, a public vote unified the settlements of Torquay and Formby, officially creating the town of Devonport. The opening of the Victoria Bridge in 1902 provided the first permanent land transport connection between Devonport and East Devonport, significantly strengthening trade and communication across the River Mersey.[32]

Central Devonport, 1908

Around this time, limestone deposits in the Melrose–Eugenana district became important to local industry. Quarries supplied material to the Broken Hill Proprietary Company smelters, and in 1916 the government reconstructed the old Don Railway to transport limestone from Melrose to the Devonport wharves, supporting regional industrial development.[33]

In 1924, the Victoria Bridge collapsed following damage caused by Teredo navalis. Although no injuries were reported, the bridge was subsequently rebuilt and reinforced.[34]

Emergence of the Goliath-Portland Cement Company (1926)

[edit]

Goliath Cement, now known as Cement Australia, traces its origins back to the Tasmanian Cement Company in 1923.[35] Supercharged by abundant limestone deposits and Railton's proximity to shipping outlets, the company pioneered advancements such as the development of bulk cement transportation by sea and boasted the first fully automatic mill in Australia.[36] The Railton facility, significant for its role in supplying cement for iconic projects like the Sydney Harbour Bridge,[37] also produced asbestos products from 1947 to 1986, resulting in the company addressing compensation settlements to 3,000 workers who were exposed to asbestos in 2010.[38]

Advancements in transportation and infrastructure (1930s–1950s)

[edit]
Ovaltine Factory, Quoiba, circa 1940s

The 1930s brought notable advancements in transportation and infrastructure with the introduction of the motor car and modern roadworks. Street sealing projects were undertaken, main roads were upgraded, and the movement of goods became increasingly efficient across northern Tasmania. Constructed by Hansen Yuncken, the Ovaltine factory opened in 1943 at Quoiba, south of Devonport, becoming the company’s second-largest manufacturing facility globally to meet demand across Australasia and Southeast Asia.[39][40]

The post-war decades also saw the arrival of other major manufacturing enterprises. Tootal Broadhurst Lee established a weaving mill at Devonport in 1949, later expanding production through the 1950s.[41][42] Known locally as “Tootals”, the factory was later operated by Australian Weaving Mills, producing textiles and towels for national distribution.[43] In East Devonport, Tascot Templeton Carpets became a major carpet manufacturer, employing more than 150 workers until its closure in 2010.[44][45]

In November 1952, the opening of the aerodrome at Pardoe marked a new era in regional air travel, with regular airline services linking Devonport to Victoria.[46][47] Destined for Melbourne, the first freight aircraft departed carrying a 11,600 lb (5,300 kg) load of Ovaltine.[47]

In 1955, Gordon Edgell & Sons purchased the former Heinz cannery at Quoiba, establishing a significant food-processing plant that later became one of Tasmania’s largest processors of peas and other vegetables.[48] The factory continues to operate under Simplot Australia, producing frozen vegetables for the Edgell and Birds Eye brands and remaining one of the city’s largest employers.[49]

Princess of Tasmania ferry service (1959)

[edit]
See also: Bass Strait ferries
The Princess of Tasmania was the world’s largest ferry in 1959

The roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminal at East Devonport was officially opened on 26 September 1959, marking a new era in Bass Strait transport. That same year, the Princess of Tasmania ferry service commenced operations, inaugurating a “sea-road” link between Victoria and Tasmania. The service enabled drivers to take their vehicles aboard, responding to the growing demand for independent car tourism.[50][51][52]

The vessel could carry around 334 passengers and approximately 100 vehicles, and the 230 nmi (430 km) crossing between Melbourne and Devonport was described at its introduction as one of the longest drive-on/drive-off ferry services in the world.[53]

Over its thirteen years of service on the Bass Strait route (1959–1972), the ‘‘Princess of Tasmania’’ played a significant role in promoting Tasmania as a destination for motorists and improving mainland–Tasmania connectivity.[54]

Residential expansion and infrastructure upgrades (1950s–1970s)

[edit]

The post-war decades marked a period of rapid expansion for Devonport. New housing subdivisions spread west across the Don Valley, north along the heights of Coles Beach, and south on both sides of the Mersey River. By the late 1960s, the municipality was among the fastest-growing urban centres in Tasmania.[55]

During this period, the development of the Mersey–Forth Power Scheme transformed the economic landscape of Tasmania’s North West. Constructed between 1963 and 1973 by the Hydro Electric Commission, the scheme comprises seven major dams and power stations supplied by the Mersey, Forth, Wilmot and Fisher Rivers.[56][57] The scheme supplied a stable source of hydro-electric power to Devonport and nearby municipalities, fuelling industrial growth and underpinning the expansion of energy-intensive manufacturing and food-processing operations across the region.[58]

In 1973, a new prestressed concrete bridge replaced the ageing Victoria Bridge, improving road access across the Mersey and connecting the city to the Bass Highway.[59]

City proclamation and modern developments (1981–2014)

[edit]

Devonport achieved city status on 21 April 1981, proclaimed by Prince Charles in a ceremony held on the Devonport Oval.[11]

From 1983-1984, the Devonport Warriors competed in the National Basketball League (NBL). The Warriors were forced to exit the NBL after the league announced it would be culled to 14 teams by 1985. The club never experienced financial hardship, and although the Warriors only won four games in 1984, ten of its losses had been by ten points or less.[citation needed]

Opening in 2001, the Pandemonium Discovery & Adventure was the North West Coast's largest indoor entertainment venue. Featuring an indoor play area, rock climbing, laser skirmish, skate ramp, and diverse science-focused exhibits, the centre catered to all ages, promoting health through active participation and recreation. The Imaginarium Science Centre located within the complex provided visitors with dynamic hands-on exhibits, programs, and changing displays. From 2001 until its closure in 2009, it hosted compelling traveling exhibitions from renowned science centers, such as 'Body in Action' from Te Manawa and 'Dinosaur Eggs and Babies' from Otago Museum and Gondwana Studios.[citation needed]

In 2014, after 160 years of continuous service, the cross-river ferry service was discontinued following the retirement of the Torquay ferry. However, it later resumed operations.[60][61]

The town received national attention on 16 December 2021, when a jumping castle and two zorbs were lifted into the air by a gust of a wind at Hillcrest primary school, killing six children and injuring three.[62][63]

Demographics

[edit]
See also: List of places in Tasmania by population
Historical population
YearPop.±%
198624,417[66]—    
199124,622[66]+0.8%
200121,528−12.6%
200622,315+3.7%
201122,770+2.0%
201623,044+1.2%
202126,150+13.5%
202326,997[67]+3.2%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics data.[64][65]

In 2021, the population of Devonport was 26,150.[2] External population demographics estimate the resident population for Devonport at 26,977 in 2023, with a population density of 242.8 people per square km across a land area of 111.1 km2 (42.9 sq mi).[68] Devonport City Council has set specific population growth goals for the city, aiming to achieve a population of 30,000 by 2030 and 35,000 by 2040.[69][70]

The median weekly household income is $1,167, compared to $1,746 nationally. 24.6% of households total weekly income is less than $650 week, while 10.4% of households weekly income exceeds $3,000. This compares to national rates of 16.5% and 24.3% respectively.[2]

34.3% of households renting, and 8.1% of owned households with a mortgage experience housing stress, where rent or mortgage repayments payments exceed 30% of total income.[2]

Devonport is home to a sizable First Nations population, with 1,971 residents, comprising 7.5% of the population, identifying as Indigenous Australians. This percentage surpasses the national average of 3.8% of the total Australian population.[71] 83.6% of residents were born in Australia. 2.9% were born in England, 0.8% in India and New Zealand and 0.6% in each Nepal, Philippines and Mainland China.[72]

89.9% of people spoke only English at home. 6.3% of households use a non-English language, including Mandarin (0.8%), Nepali (0.7%), Punjabi (0.4%) and Vietnamese and Tongan (0.3%).[2]

In the 2021 census, 51.1% of people in Devonport professed no religion. 38.7% specified a Christian religious affiliation (including 12.4% as Anglicanism, 11.6% Catholic and 3.5% Uniting Church). Other religious affiliations include Hinduism (1.1%), Buddhism (0.9%), Islam (0.4%) and Sikhism (0.3%).[2][72]

Geography

[edit]

Climate

[edit]

Devonport experiences a mild oceanic climate with small annual temperature ranges, influenced by its coastal exposure and frequent westerly frontal systems.[73][74] Summers are generally mild: from January to March average daytime maxima are around 20 to 22 °C (68 to 72 °F), with occasional warmer spells into the high 20 °C (68 °F) and periodic cool changes when fronts pass.[75][76]

Winters are cool and frequently cloudy, with regular light rain from passing fronts; July and August are typically the wettest months of the year. Daytime maxima in July average about 13 °C (55 °F) and nights are usually above freezing, while winter days rarely exceed about 15 °C (59 °F).[77][78] Spring and early summer (September to December) are typically cool to mild and windy, with frequent showers interspersed with sunnier breaks as weather systems move across the north coast.[79]

Climate data for Devonport Airport (means and rainfall 1991–2020, extremes 1991–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 33.2
(91.8) 		30.6
(87.1) 		29.0
(84.2) 		24.9
(76.8) 		20.7
(69.3) 		18.8
(65.8) 		17.6
(63.7) 		18.1
(64.6) 		20.0
(68.0) 		25.9
(78.6) 		28.2
(82.8) 		30.9
(87.6) 		33.2
(91.8)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 21.6
(70.9) 		21.8
(71.2) 		20.5
(68.9) 		17.8
(64.0) 		15.4
(59.7) 		13.5
(56.3) 		12.8
(55.0) 		13.1
(55.6) 		14.3
(57.7) 		16.0
(60.8) 		18.0
(64.4) 		19.8
(67.6) 		17.0
(62.6)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 12.4
(54.3) 		12.7
(54.9) 		11.0
(51.8) 		8.8
(47.8) 		6.8
(44.2) 		5.1
(41.2) 		4.7
(40.5) 		4.9
(40.8) 		6.1
(43.0) 		7.4
(45.3) 		9.3
(48.7) 		10.7
(51.3) 		8.3
(46.9)
Record low °C (°F) 4.0
(39.2) 		−1.2
(29.8) 		−2.5
(27.5) 		−0.8
(30.6) 		−1.8
(28.8) 		−1.9
(28.6) 		−2.2
(28.0) 		−4.8
(23.4) 		−2.0
(28.4) 		−2.3
(27.9) 		0.6
(33.1) 		1.6
(34.9) 		−4.8
(23.4)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 48.0
(1.89) 		35.3
(1.39) 		42.8
(1.69) 		56.8
(2.24) 		64.4
(2.54) 		71.8
(2.83) 		86.3
(3.40) 		81.5
(3.21) 		76.8
(3.02) 		55.2
(2.17) 		57.1
(2.25) 		47.4
(1.87) 		723.4
(28.48)
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) 7.1 6.9 7.8 9.7 12.4 13.0 15.6 16.0 15.1 12.0 10.9 8.8 135.3
Average afternoon relative humidity (%) 61 61 59 62 66 68 69 68 66 63 65 61 64
Mean monthly sunshine hours 263.5 240.1 210.8 171.0 142.6 132.0 136.4 151.9 186.0 232.5 246.0 257.3 2,370.1
Source 1: Bureau of Meteorology[3]
Source 2: Bureau of Meteorology (1981–1996 sunshine hours)[80]

Governance

[edit]
Mayor of Devonport
Incumbent
Alison Jarman
since 28 October 2022[81]
StyleCouncillor
Member ofDevonport City Council
Formation1908
First holderKerry Berwick[82]
See also: Devonport City Council

There are nine councillors that govern the Devonport City Council.[83] Alison Jarman was elected mayor of the City of Devonport in 2022.[84] Devonport City Council oversees local governance in Devonport, managing infrastructure, community services, and local regulations. The council is also involved in supporting community development initiatives, including the Devonport Entertainment and Convention Centre. Devonport's political landscape is marked by a blend of conservative and progressive influences, reflecting the region's broader social dynamics.[85][86][87]

At the state level, Devonport falls within the Tasmanian House of Assembly’s electoral division of Braddon, a multi-member electorate that includes both Labor and Liberal members.[88]

Nationally, Devonport is located in the federal electorate of Braddon, currently represented by Anne Urquhart of the Australian Labor Party.[89] Braddon has traditionally been a marginal seat, with representation often alternating between the Labor and Liberal parties in federal elections.[90]

Suburbs

[edit]
Main article: City of Devonport § Suburbs
  • Areas within Devonport as a suburb include Highfield
  • Areas within East Devonport as a suburb includes Pardoe Downs, Rannoch, Panorama Heights

Cultural and educational institutions

[edit]
Downtown Devonport with Spirit I.
The 1899 Town Hall Theatre is located within the Paranaple Arts Centre.

Opening in November 2018, the Paranaple Arts Centre serves as a contemporary focal point for artistic expression and cultural engagement. It is home to the Devonport Regional Gallery, Town Hall Theatre and the Devonport Visitor Information Centre. The Paranaple hosts live performances encompassing a range of genres, including music concerts, theatre productions, dance performances, and other performing arts events.[91] The centre also includes gallery, studio and rehearsal spaces, a theatre, and multipurpose areas designed to host diverse arts-related activities.[92]

The Devonport Regional Gallery evolved from the inception of The Little Gallery, which was founded by Jean Thomas as a private enterprise in 1966. The Gallery presents an annual program of exhibitions, education and public programs including events and workshops. A broad range of selected local artisan works are displayed at the North West Regional Craft Centre and gift store in the CBD.[citation needed]

Tiagarra Aboriginal Culture Centre and Museum, 2016.

The Tiagarra Aboriginal Culture Centre and Museum displays petroglyphs, designs in rock and exhibits that depict the traditional lifestyle of Tasmanian Aboriginal people.[93] Meaning "to keep", Tiagarra is one of the oldest Aboriginal-operated museums in Australia, officially opening on 16 October 1976 by Doug Nicholls and Gladys Nicholls.[94]

The Bass Strait Maritime Centre housed in the former Harbour Master's House has objects, models and photographs that tell the stories of Bass Strait and Devonport. Dame Enid Lyons inaugurated an exhibition of maritime memorabilia in 1970, inspiring the establishment of the Tasmanian Maritime and Folk Museum in East Devonport in 1973. By 1980, the museum had relocated to the Harbour Master’s house in Gloucester Avenue. In 1999, a merger with the Devon Historical Society integrated Devonport’s maritime and local history archives into a unified collection. In 2010, the Devonport City Council assumed ownership and management from the volunteer-based organization, leading to the present-day Bass Strait Maritime Centre. The collection, comprising 4500 objects, 200 artworks, photographic prints, negatives, and archival material, explores Devonport and Bass Strait's stories from the early 1800s to the present. Rotating exhibitions feature diverse narratives from the collection.[citation needed]

Devonport Regional Gallery, 2008

A volunteer-run vintage railway and museum, the Don River Railway, is situated at Don, a suburb of Devonport.[citation needed]

The former Devonport Maternity Hospital was recently demolished and the land repurposed into a gated community.[95]

The Mersey Community Hospital at Latrobe serves the Devonport community for their health needs.[citation needed]

Kokoda Barracks is an army barracks in Devonport.[citation needed]

Transport

[edit]

Devonport offers a range of transportation options, including road networks, intercity bus services, public transport bus services operated by Kinetic Tasmania, freight rail, passenger ferry, air travel, and alternative modes like cycling and walking pathways.

Devonport Airport

[edit]

Devonport Airport, located about 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) east of the city at Pardoe Downs, can be reached within a 15-minute car journey.[96] The airport is served by QantasLink and Rex Airlines, providing non-stop flights to Melbourne.[97] QantasLink operates four daily Bombardier Dash 8 turboprop services to Melbourne.[98]

Encompassing 308 hectares (760 acres), the airport features a main runway measuring 1,838 by 45 metres (6,030 ft × 148 ft) and a secondary grassed runway spanning 880 by 30 metres (2,887 ft × 98 ft). Its infrastructure includes comprehensive taxiways, passenger terminals and general aviation, and maintenance hangars.[99] Recent upgrades in 2020 enhanced the terminal with a new departure lounge, upgraded security, and a dedicated freight apron.[100]

The airport offers car parking, rental cars and taxi facilities.[101][102] It is connected to Devonport by public transport, with bus services operated by Kinetic (formerly including Merseylink) and local taxi services.[102][103]

Freight transport

[edit]

From Devonport, two operators provide roll-on/roll-off freight service across Bass Strait to Victoria:

  • SeaRoad Shipping runs a dedicated RoRo freight service between Devonport and Melbourne using purpose-built vessels.[104]
  • Spirit of Tasmania (TT-Line) provides RoRo ferry services that carry vehicles, trailers, and freight between Devonport and Geelong/Melbourne.[105][106]

Cement Australia has been exporting cement from Railton to Melbourne since 1926. Additional exports by ship include tallow, while coal was an export until the closure of the Fingal Valley coal mine.[107] Imports to Devonport include petroleum, bunker fuel, fertiliser and caustic soda.[108]

Due for completion in 2027, the $240 million Quaylink project, a TasPorts investment of new berths and terminal facilities, is expected to further boost the port's freight operations by 40%.[109][110][111]

Rail

[edit]
The Don River Railway

TasRail maintains a freight rail line that connects the port area to Burnie and Railton.[112] Devonport had a railway station that was demolished in 1983.[113][114]

Situated in Don, the Don River Railway is a volunteer-run heritage railway and museum providing an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a passenger train ride from Don to Coles Beach.[115] The railway journey traces a reconstructed section of the former Melrose line, historically connecting Don Junction to Paloona.

Passenger ferries

[edit]

Devonport serves as the departure point for the Spirit of Tasmania ferries (Spirit of Tasmania I and Spirit of Tasmania II) that travel from Devonport to Geelong, Victoria, taking approximately 11 hours for the voyage. These ferries are crucial for transporting passengers, vehicles, and freight between Tasmania and the Australian mainland, providing an essential link across the Bass Strait.[116][117] A ferry service connecting east and west of Devonport named The Spirit of Devonport ceased operations on the Mersey River after more than 160 years in 2022.[118][119][120]

Devonport Passenger Ferry History

The first Spirit of Tasmania, 1999
Vessel Destination Years Operator
Oonah Melbourne 1921–1935 Tasmanian Steamers
Loongana Melbourne 1921–1935 Tasmanian Steamers
Nairana Melbourne 1921–1948 Tasmanian Steamers
Taroona Melbourne 1935–1959 Tasmanian Steamers
Princess of Tasmania Melbourne 1959–1972 Australian National Line
Empress of Australia Melbourne 1972–1986 Australian National Line
Abel Tasman Melbourne 1986–1993 Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania Melbourne 1993–2002 Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania I Melbourne 2002–2022 Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania II Melbourne 2002–2022 Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania III Sydney 2003–2006 Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania I Geelong 2022– Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania II Geelong 2022– Spirit of Tasmania

Agriculture

[edit]

Situated within a modest expanse of 114 square kilometres (44 sq mi),[121] Devonport has a solid history in agriculture. Despite the region's spatial limitations, Devonport has been a linchpin in Tasmania's vegetable cultivation, yielding substantial quantities of beans, onions, peas, and potatoes. The post-World War II era witnessed a transformative phase marked by the establishment of processing factories, with a specific emphasis on peas. These facilities assumed a crucial role in the canning, freezing, and dehydrating processes, not only bolstering local sustenance but also fundamentally influencing Tasmania's broader agricultural and food production paradigm.[122] Devonport has since emerged as a key contributor to Australia's agricultural production, with a significant supporting dairy industry, cereals, poppyseed oil and pyrethrum.[121]

Education

[edit]
Our Lady Of Lourdes Primary School.

Primary schools

[edit]
  • Hillcrest Primary School
  • Devonport Primary School
  • Miandetta Primary School
  • East Devonport Primary School
  • Nixon Street Primary School
  • Spreyton Primary School
  • Devonport Christian School
  • Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School

Secondary schools (Years 7–10)

[edit]

Senior secondary education (Years 11–12)

[edit]

A TasTAFE campus, an adult training institution, is situated in Valley Road.

Sport

[edit]
Devonport Oval, 2009.
See also: Sport in Tasmania

Devonport has a rich sporting culture, with the Devonport Football Club (Magpies) competing in the North West Football League (NWFL), having secured back-to-back Senior Premierships in 2021 and 2022. The East Devonport Football Club (Swans) also plays in the NWFL, with teams like Ulverstone and Penguin. The Devonport Rugby Club competes in the Tasmanian Rugby Union Statewide League,[123] and touch football is organised by the Devonport Touch Football Association at Meercroft Park.[citation needed]

In soccer, Devonport City Football Club plays in the National Premier Leagues Tasmania and fields a reserve team in the Northern Championship.[citation needed]

Cricket is represented by the Devonport Cricket Club in the North Western Tasmanian Cricket Association. Devonport’s hockey teams compete in the Hockey Tasmania leagues.[citation needed]

The Devonport Warriors, based at the Devonport Recreation Centre, are the largest basketball club in the North West Basketball Union, with over 750 members and a legacy of success, including hosting the Under-14 Australian Junior Championships in 1974 and representing Devonport in the National Basketball League between 1983-1984.[124][125] Netball is centered at Devonport Netball in Spreyton, participating in statewide events.[citation needed]

Devonport hosts a leg of the Tasmanian Cycling Christmas Carnival Series, along with athletics and woodchopping events.[126]

The Devonport Golf Club has hosted major events like the Tasmanian Open and Tasmanian Seniors Open. The annual Devonport Regatta features powerboat racing, while the Devonport Cup, held in January at the Spreyton racecourse, is a major horse racing event. The city also hosts regular harness and greyhound racing at the Devonport Showgrounds.[citation needed]

The Splash Devonport Aquatic and Leisure Centre offers a gym and indoor pool within the Don Reserve. Devonport Tennis Club and East Devonport Tennis Club compete in the Tennis North West Association, and the annual Devonport Triathlon in February serves as the Oceania continental championship.[citation needed]

Notable residents

[edit]
See also: Category:People from Devonport, Tasmania

Arts

[edit]

Other

[edit]

Politicians

[edit]

Sportspeople

[edit]
See also: Category:Sportspeople from Devonport, Tasmania

VFL/AFL players

[edit]

Sister cities

[edit]
  • Japan Minamata, Japan (1996).[127] The City of Devonport has a formal sister city agreement with Minamata City in Japan.[127] This was ratified in 1996. Both cities share a similar setting and area.[127][128]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Australian Bureau of Statistics (28 June 2022). "Devonport (urban centre and locality)". Australian Census 2021. Edit this at Wikidata
  2. ^ a b c d e f g "2021 Census All persons QuickStats". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Australian Bureau of Statistics. 28 June 2022. Retrieved 28 June 2022.
  3. ^ a b c d "Climate statistics for Devonport Airport". bom.gov.au. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 11 April 2017.
  4. ^ Upton, Clive; Kretzschmar, William A. Jr. (2017). The Routledge Dictionary of Pronunciation for Current English (2nd ed.). Routledge. p. 351. ISBN 978-1-138-12566-7.
  5. ^ pulingina to lutruwita (Tasmania) Place Names Map
  6. ^ a b c "Invest in Devonport's Development". devonport.tas.gov.au. 23 June 2023. Archived from the original on 4 November 2023. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  7. ^ Bingham, Libby (24 November 2023). "Slick plan to connect Devonport with new investors launched by city leaders". The Advocate. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  8. ^ Maloney, Matt (23 October 2023). "Record number of passengers on Spirit of Tasmania vessels". The Examiner (Tasmania). Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  9. ^ Spirit of Tasmania to relocate to new Devonport terminal Daily Cargo News 1 August 2024
  10. ^ "Agency Details: Devonport City Council". search.archives.tas.gov.au. Tasmanian Government. January 1981. Retrieved 11 June 2018.
  11. ^ a b Bingham, Libby (6 May 2023). "Prince Charles added royal status to Devonport's city celebrations". The Examiner (Tasmania). Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  12. ^ "Devonport: Statistical Areas Level 3". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 25 April 2024.
  13. ^ "Finlayson Bros". Daily Telegraph. Vol. XXVI, no. 243. Tasmania, Australia. 11 October 1906. p. 8. Retrieved 13 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  14. ^ Gardam, Faye. "Compainion to Tasmanian History: Finlaysons". University of Tasmania. Archived from the original on 16 October 2021. Retrieved 13 January 2024.
  15. ^ "Finlayson Brothers. (1900-)", Trove, 2011, retrieved 13 January 2024
  16. ^ "Finlayson Brothers & Co. Builders of Motor Coaches". Vintage Trucks & Commercials Magazine. 14 June 2023. Retrieved 13 January 2024.
  17. ^ "CAPTAIN IVAN HOLYMAN, MC". Smith's Weekly. Vol. XXVI, no. 49. New South Wales, Australia. 3 February 1945. p. 13. Retrieved 13 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  18. ^ "William Holyman and Sons Pty. Ltd". The Examiner (Tasmania). Vol. XCIV, no. 23. Tasmania, Australia. 6 April 1935. p. 10 (Daily: The Examiner Pioneer Supplement). Retrieved 13 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  19. ^ "Holyman's Grew From Three Ketches". The Herald. No. 21, 465. Victoria, Australia. 6 March 1946. p. 13. Retrieved 13 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  20. ^ "Home Hill". Australian Prime Ministers. Archived from the original on 29 October 2023. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  21. ^ a b c d Studios, Jeffrey (27 September 2021). "A Brief History". Tiagarra Cultural Centre. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  22. ^ a b "punnilerpanner - Spreyton Pathway". Devonport City Council. 18 February 2025. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  23. ^ "History Of The Origin, Rise, And Progress Of The Van Diemen's Land Company". Colonial Advocate & Tasmanian Monthly Review & Register. Vol. I, no. 5. Tasmania, Australia. 1 July 1828. p. 14. Retrieved 14 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  24. ^ Thomas, H. R. (1967). "Bartholomew Boyle Thomas (1785–1831)". Australian Dictionary of Biography. Vol. 2. National Centre of Biography, Australian National University. ISBN 978-0-522-84459-7. ISSN 1833-7538. OCLC 70677943. Archived from the original on 23 September 2023. Retrieved 14 January 2024.
  25. ^ a b "Devonport's early days - Noted ship-building centre". Advocate. 8 November 1938. Retrieved 28 February 2021.
  26. ^ "Balmoral" (PDF). Tasmanian Ancestry. 9 (2): 75. 1 June 1988. Retrieved 28 February 2021.
  27. ^ "Eighty Years Ago - Early days in Mersey District". Advocate. 30 March 1938. Retrieved 28 February 2021.
  28. ^ Bovill, Monte (30 August 2022). "Spirit of Devonport ferry service ends after 160 years as passenger numbers fall". ABC News. Retrieved 9 March 2025.
  29. ^ "Devonport City Council". Devonport City Council. 23 May 2019. Retrieved 9 March 2025.
  30. ^ "Deloraine and Formby Railway". Tasmanian News. Vol. II, no. 475. Tasmania, Australia. 1 June 1885. p. 3. Retrieved 9 March 2025 – via National Library of Australia.
  31. ^ "The History and Importance of the Railway in Devonport, Tasmania". Devonport City Guide. 28 July 1978. Retrieved 9 March 2025.
  32. ^ "THE MERSEY BRIDGE AT DEVONPORT". The North West Post. No. 2332. Tasmania, Australia. 27 May 1902. p. 2. Retrieved 9 March 2025 – via National Library of Australia.
  33. ^ "The Melrose Limestone". The Mercury. Vol. CIV, no. 14, 482. Tasmania, Australia. 19 May 1916. p. 6. Retrieved 9 March 2025 – via National Library of Australia.
  34. ^ "Collapse of Bridge". The Brisbane Courier. No. 20, 601. Queensland, Australia. 1 February 1924. p. 5. Retrieved 9 March 2025 – via National Library of Australia.
  35. ^ "Goliath Cement Industry". The Advocate. Tasmania, Australia. 4 November 1936. p. 7. Retrieved 29 March 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  36. ^ Rimon, Wendy. "Companion to Tasmanian History: Goliath Cement". University of Tasmania. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
  37. ^ "Goliath Cement". Sunday Mail. No. 606. Queensland, Australia. 6 January 1935. p. 6. Retrieved 29 March 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  38. ^ "New factory owner managing asbestos tragedy". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 8 May 2010. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
  39. ^ "Devonport Ovaltine Factory Formally Opened". The Advocate. Tasmania, Australia. 19 March 1943. p. 2. Retrieved 10 November 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  40. ^ Anderson, Don (director) (1967). More Than Apples (YouTube). Libraries Tasmania. Retrieved 10 November 2023.
  41. ^ "Devonport Weaving Mills May Cost About £250,000". The Mercury. 6 July 1949. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  42. ^ "Tootal Broadhurst Lee Co. Ltd. to Extend Operations in Devonport". The Advocate. 27 May 1954. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  43. ^ "Weaving Plant Machinery Falls Silent". ABC News. 8 November 2013. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  44. ^ "Union Fears Worst as Carpet Factory Unravels". ABC News. 22 September 2010. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  45. ^ "Rug Pulled at Carpet Factory". ABC News. 8 December 2010. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  46. ^ "Tasmania Will Have Prettiest Airfield". The Sun News-pictorial. No. 8628. Victoria, Australia. 19 May 1950. p. 9. Retrieved 2 October 2025 – via National Library of Australia.
  47. ^ a b "Roaring Forties, Newsletter No. 15 – September 2023" (PDF). Tasmanian Aviation Historical Society. Launceston Airport: Tasmanian Aviation Historical Society Inc. September 2023. p. 14. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  48. ^ "Heinz Sells Tas. Cannery". The Argus (Melbourne). 20 January 1955. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  49. ^ "Devonport". Simplot Australia. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  50. ^ "The Princess of Tasmania". The Biz. New South Wales, Australia. 18 November 1959. p. 10. Retrieved 11 January 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  51. ^ "Publicity Booklet – Australian National Line "SEAROAD" Service". Museums Victoria Collections. Retrieved 11 January 2024.
  52. ^ "Princess of Tasmania and Bass Trader at Webb Dock, Melbourne". Ferries of Tasmania. 30 January 2022. Retrieved 11 January 2024.
  53. ^ "TSMV Princess of Tasmania – "A history of men and the sea"". Macdonald – A history of men and the sea. Retrieved 11 January 2024.
  54. ^ "65 years since the POT sailed in". The Local History Site. Retrieved 11 January 2024.
  55. ^ "Devonport History". Devonport City Council. 23 May 2019. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  56. ^ Mersey–Forth Water Management Review Report (PDF) (Report). Hydro Tasmania. 2008. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  57. ^ Mersey–Forth Power Development: Report to the Honourable the Premier of Tasmania. Hobart: Hydro Electric Commission. 1963. OCLC 1625385.
  58. ^ "A Powerful Century: Hydro Tasmania Information Sheet" (PDF). Hydro Tasmania. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  59. ^ "Devonport's New Bridge Opens". The Advocate. 8 June 1973. p. 3 – via National Library of Australia.
  60. ^ Dingwall, Doug (22 May 2014). "Devonport to lose its Torquay Ferry service". Retrieved 4 November 2020.
  61. ^ "Devonport's Torquay ferry to return". 2 October 2015. Retrieved 4 November 2020.
  62. ^ "Australia jumping castle tragedy: five children dead and several critically injured in Tasmania". The Guardian. 16 December 2021. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
  63. ^ "Sixth child dies after jumping castle tragedy, as community unites in grief". ABC News. 19 December 2021. Retrieved 19 December 2021.
  64. ^ "Statistics by Catalogue Number". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
  65. ^ "Search Census data". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
  66. ^ a b Castles, Ian (14 January 1993). "Census counts for Small Areas: Tasmania, 1991 Census of Population and Housing" (PDF). Australian Bureau of Statistics. p. 30. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
  67. ^ "TasPOPP 2024 Final Report" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Treasury and Finance. p. 17. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
  68. ^ "Devonport City Profile Area". Informed Decisions. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  69. ^ "Greater Devonport Residential Growth Strategy 2021-2041" (PDF). Devonport City Council. Archived from the original (PDF) on 21 February 2024. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  70. ^ Bingham, Libby (2 May 2022). "Devonport's ambitious plan to attract 30,000 residents by 2030". The Advocate. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  71. ^ "Estimates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians". Australian Bureau of Statistics. 31 August 2023. Archived from the original on 10 April 2024. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
  72. ^ a b "2021 Devonport, Census Community Profile". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 2 October 2022.
  73. ^ "Local climate profile – Devonport City Municipality" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Premier and Cabinet. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  74. ^ "Climate statistics for Australian locations – Devonport Airport (091126)". Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  75. ^ "Climate statistics for Australian locations – Devonport Airport (091126)". Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  76. ^ "Climate Futures for Tasmania – Summary" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Premier and Cabinet. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  77. ^ "Climate statistics for Australian locations – Devonport Airport (091126)". Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  78. ^ "Local climate profile – Devonport City Municipality" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Premier and Cabinet. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  79. ^ "Climate Futures for Tasmania – Summary" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Premier and Cabinet. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  80. ^ "Climate statistics for Forthside Climate Research Station (1981–2010)". bom.gov.au. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 28 October 2017.
  81. ^ Flint, Jess (26 October 2022). "Kons out, Brumby in: Changing of the guard in Burnie". The Advocate. Retrieved 21 September 2024.
  82. ^ Wade, Rohan (23 January 2003). "Devonport farewells first mayor Kerry". The Examiner. Retrieved 21 September 2024.
  83. ^ "Mayor and Aldermen". devonport.tas.gov.au. Retrieved 25 June 2009.
  84. ^ "Devonport City Council election results - 2022 local government elections Tasmania". Tasmanian Electoral Commission. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  85. ^ "Division of Braddon results – 2019 federal election". Australian Electoral Commission. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  86. ^ "Division of Braddon results – 2022 federal election". Australian Electoral Commission. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  87. ^ "Braddon results – 2025 federal election". The Poll Bludger. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  88. ^ "Braddon – Tasmania 2024". The Tally Room. 1 July 2023. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  89. ^ "Ms Anne Urquhart MP". Parliament of Australia. 14 November 2012. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  90. ^ Green, Antony (2 July 2016). "Federal Electorate, Candidates, Results". ABC News. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  91. ^ Bingham, Libby (9 January 2022). "Embracing city's public art assets and aspirations". The Advocate. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  92. ^ "Paranaple Arts Centre Technical Specifications" (PDF). Paranaple Arts Centre. Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 March 2023. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  93. ^ Ian Elsner (15 April 2019). "62. David Gough Reclaims Stewardship of Tiagarra for Aboriginal Tasmanians" (Podcast). Museum Archipelago. Retrieved 15 April 2019.
  94. ^ "Tiagarra - A Brief History". Tiagarra - Tasmanian Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place. Archived from the original on 24 September 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2024.
  95. ^ Leah McBey (7 February 2019). "Multi-million gated community planned for old Devonport maternity hospital land". ABC NEWS. Retrieved 2 August 2021.
  96. ^ "About Devonport". Our Tasmania. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  97. ^ "Flights from Melbourne to Devonport". Directflights. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  98. ^ "About Devonport". Our Tasmania. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  99. ^ "Devonport Airport Master Plan 2035" (PDF). dpoairport.au. p. 2. Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 October 2023. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  100. ^ Bennett, Lachlan (6 July 2020). "Devonport Airport ready for post-pandemic expansion following upgrade". The Advocate. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  101. ^ "Car Hire Devonport Airport". Airport Rentals. Airport Rentals Pty Ltd. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  102. ^ a b "Getting Around Devonport". Visit Devonport. Devonport City Council. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  103. ^ "Devonport & North West". Kinetic. Kinetic Group. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  104. ^ "SeaRoad's MV Liekut departs for Australia" (PDF). SeaRoad. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  105. ^ "Devonport East Redevelopment". TasPorts. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  106. ^ "Port Information – Devonport". TasPorts. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  107. ^ "Cornwall Coal to plans new coal mine in Tasmania". Global Cement. 5 January 2023. Archived from the original on 10 August 2023. Retrieved 10 August 2023.
  108. ^ "Devonport: The Port". Our Tasmania. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  109. ^ Dunn, James (16 September 2021). "TasPorts expansion works to boost freight capacity". The Australian. Archived from the original on 24 June 2023.
  110. ^ Grogan, Ashley (4 April 2023). "Tasmania's QuayLink port infrastructure upgrades well underway". Inside Construction. Archived from the original on 4 April 2023. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  111. ^ Ackerman, Ian (11 October 2023). "Devonport's Project Quaylink Reaches Milestone". Daily Cargo News. Archived from the original on 8 January 2024. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
  112. ^ Devonport TasRail
  113. ^ ANR Continental Railway Journal issue 59 September 1984 page 326
  114. ^ Don River Railway eyes disused Devonport station site Railway Digest May 2020 page 54
  115. ^ DRR Lanceston depot opened Tasmanian Rail News issue 222 November 2003 page 9
  116. ^ Macdonald, Lucy (23 April 2020). "Spirit of Tasmania to move Victorian operations from Port Melbourne to Geelong". ABC News. Retrieved 4 November 2020.
  117. ^ "Spirit of Tasmania facilities at Geelong on track for first sailing". 1 July 2022. Retrieved 7 August 2022.
  118. ^ Bovill, Monte (30 August 2022). "Spirit of Devonport ferry service ends after 160 years as passenger numbers fall". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 10 August 2023. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  119. ^ Tasmania Australian Bus Panorama issue 38/3 November 2022 page 33
  120. ^ Spirit of Devonport Ferry Service Devonport City Council
  121. ^ a b "Welcome to Devonport". devonport.tas.gov.au. 21 May 2019. Archived from the original on 20 November 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2024.
  122. ^ Halpern, E. (1966), A system of farming : Devonport area : north west coast of Tasmania (online resource (53 pages)), Tasmania: Department of Agriculture, p. 2, nla.obj-2819083965, retrieved 17 January 2024 – via Trove
  123. ^ "Find My Club". Retrieved 21 July 2020.
  124. ^ "History - Devonport Basketball Club". Devonport Warriors. Archived from the original on 2 April 2024. Retrieved 17 May 2024.
  125. ^ "U14 Club Championships History". Basketball Australia. Retrieved 17 May 2024.
  126. ^ "Devonport Athletic Club". tas.cycling.org.au. Retrieved 26 June 2009.
  127. ^ a b c "Our Sister City". Devonport City Council. 23 May 2019. Retrieved 30 September 2025.
  128. ^ "Devonport prepares to welcome Sister City delegation from Minamata". 12 March 2017. Retrieved 26 September 2020.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Devonport,_Tasmania&oldid=1324564802"