Perth

Perth was originally named, 'The Punt' as it was here that travellers journeying between Hobart and Launceston were ferried across the South Esk river by one of these flat-bottomed boats. 

Chosen as the site for a future township by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, Perth has a considerable number of important and interesting historic buildings classified by the National Trust, including 'Eskleigh', the Baptist Tabernacle and St. Andrew's Church. 

The first settler in the area was Thomas Massey, the Chief Constable of Launceston, who established a farm in the district in 1814.  Famously, the farm was raided and the barn burnt down by the well-known bushranger, Matthew Brady in 1824. 

A Historic Town Walk brochure is available locally and provides an excellent guide to the forty-one heritage buildings.  Take some time to wander around and explore Perth's fascinating early architecture. 

The Tasmanian Honey Company in Perth produces the finest leatherwood and pure honeys, sourced from the island's wilderness areas. The company offers tours of their working site. 

The Lion's Train Park has something for all the family; a playground complete with a real steam engine, BBQs, chainsaw sculptures and fully accessible 'train station' toilets!  For a lovely quieter spot, relax under the willows on the banks of the South Esk River at the Southern end of town. 

The Charles Berryman Reserve adjacent to the Heritage Highway at the southern entrance to Perth now proudly displays quirky street furniture-style features that provide an entertaining and creative interpretation of the town's punt heritage.