Beauty Point, Tasmania facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Beauty PointTasmania |
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![]() Beauty Point, Tasmania.
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Population | 1,222 (2016 census) |
Postcode(s) | 7270 |
Location |
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LGA(s) | West Tamar Council |
State electorate(s) | Bass |
Federal Division(s) | Bass |
Beauty Point is a lovely town in Tasmania, Australia. It sits right by the Tamar River in the north-east part of the state. About 1,222 people lived here in 2016. It's about 45 kilometers north of Launceston. Beauty Point is known for its beautiful river views and its important port.
History of Beauty Point
Beauty Point started as a small town with the very first deep water port on the Tamar River. A deep water port means big ships can dock there easily. The town was first built to help the nearby gold mining town of Beaconsfield. It served as a port for the gold mine.
After the exciting gold rush ended, Beauty Point changed. It became a place where apples were sent out to other places. In the 1870s, parts of Beauty Point had different names. One area was called 'Port Lempriere'. It had a special furnace for making iron. Another part, called 'Ilfracombe', also had a jetty for iron companies.
The post office in Ilfracombe opened in 1903. It was renamed Beauty Point in 1904. This shows how the town grew and became more important over time.
Economy and Attractions
Beauty Point is located at the mouth of the Tamar River, a place called Port Dalrymple. This area is great for farming, with lots of sheep, cattle, and vineyards. But the town's port is still the most important part of its economy today.
Beauty Point is also a big fishing town. The Australian Maritime College has a campus here. Students learn about fishing and how to work on ships. This college is very important for training future sailors and marine experts.
The town also has some cool places to visit:
- Seahorse World: This is a working seahorse farm. You can learn all about seahorses and see them up close. It's a fun and educational place for visitors.
- Platypus House: Here, you can meet Tasmanian platypus and echidna. These are unique Australian animals, and you can learn a lot about them.
Beauty Point also has a slipway where boats can be repaired. The original wharf, where the first big ships arrived, has been replaced. Now, the Australian Maritime College stands there. It even has two training ships for its students.
Yachting Events
Beauty Point is a popular spot for exciting yacht races. It is the starting point for two big events:
- Australian Three Peaks Race: This race combines yachting and running. Teams sail around the east of Tasmania and also run up three mountains.
- Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race: This is another yacht race that starts in Beauty Point. Boats sail down the east coast of Tasmania to Hobart.
These races bring many sailors and visitors to Beauty Point each year.