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Austins Ferry
HobartTasmania
Austins Ferry is located in Hobart
Austins Ferry
Austins Ferry
Location in Hobart
Population 2,395 (2021 census)
 • Density 1,057/km2 (2,740/sq mi)
Postcode(s) 7011
Area 2.1 km2 (0.8 sq mi)
Location 9 km (6 mi) N of Glenorchy
LGA(s) City of Glenorchy
Region Hobart
State electorate(s) Clark
Federal Division(s) Clark
Suburbs around Austins Ferry:
Granton River Derwent River Derwent
Abbotsfield Austins Ferry River Derwent
Claremont Claremont River Derwent

Austins Ferry is a suburb located in the City of Glenorchy area, which is part of the greater Hobart region in Tasmania, Australia. It's a residential area, meaning many people live there.

Geography of Austins Ferry

Austins Ferry is located about 9 kilometers (about 5.6 miles) north of the center of Glenorchy.

The beautiful River Derwent forms the eastern edge of Austins Ferry. It also makes up parts of the northern and southern borders of the suburb.

History of Austins Ferry

Austins Ferry is named after a man named James Austin (1776–1831). He arrived in Australia in 1803 as a convict and was later sent to Van Diemens Land (which is now Tasmania) in 1804. His cousin, John Earl, came with him.

After they finished their sentences, James and John were given small pieces of land. Their land was on the western side of the River Derwent, between Hobart and New Norfolk. In 1818, they started a ferry service to help people cross the river. Later, they added a punt, which was like a flat boat for carrying vehicles. This service was very helpful for people traveling between Hobart and places further north. Because of this, James and John became very successful and wealthy.

In 1821, a governor named Lachlan Macquarie visited the area and decided to rename the village Roseneath. However, over time, it went back to its original name, Austins Ferry.

Austins Ferry was officially recognized as a locality (a specific place) in 1960.

According to the 2021 census, 2,395 people lived in Austins Ferry.

Places to See and Visit

James Austin's Cottage

James Austin's original cottage is still standing today! It's kept as a place for visitors to learn about history. You can see a picture of it on the right.

James Austin Cottage
James Austin Cottage

The cottage is usually open on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Inside, you can find crafts and learn more about the history of the area.

Saint Virgil's College

Austins Ferry is home to St Virgil's College. This is a private school for both boys and girls, run by the Roman Catholic Church.

Austins Ferry Primary School

The local public school for younger students is Austins Ferry Primary School. It first opened its doors in 2011.

How to Get Around: Roads

The main road, National Route 1 (also known as Brooker Highway), runs to the west of Austins Ferry. From this highway, several smaller roads lead into the suburb, making it easy to access.

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