Gunns Plains, Tasmania facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Gunns Plains Tasmania
Gunns Plains Location in Tasmania
Postcode(s)	7315
LGA(s)	Central Coast Council
State electorate(s)	Braddon
Federal Division(s)	Braddon

Gunns Plains is a small and interesting town in Tasmania, Australia. It's about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Ulverstone on the north-west coast. This quiet area is known for its beautiful natural features and rich history.

In 2021, a census showed that about 195 people lived in Gunns Plains. The Leven River flows gently through the green fields. These fields are perfect for grazing animals like cows and sheep. Farmers also grow many crops here because the soil is very rich and red, thanks to old volcanic activity.

Discovering Gunns Plains

Gunns Plains was named after a famous botanist, Ronald Campbell Gunn. He was a scientist who studied plants. He first explored this beautiful valley way back in 1860. Imagine discovering a whole new place!

Local Delights

The valley is home to the Leven Valley Vineyard. This vineyard grows special grapes like Pinot and Chardonnay. These grapes are used to make delicious wines. It's a great example of how the rich soil helps local businesses.

A Glimpse into History

The community of Gunns Plains has a long history. Many people from the town played a part in the First World War. This shows the strong spirit and involvement of the local community in important historical events. The town's post office opened in 1900 but closed its doors in 1974.

Amazing Caves and Wildlife

One of the biggest reasons people visit Gunns Plains is its incredible limestone caves. More than 150 caves have been found in this area! These caves are natural wonders, formed over thousands of years.

The Famous Caves

The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service looks after the main Gunns Plains Cave. This cave is open to everyone, and you can take daily tours to explore its amazing formations. Inside, you'll see sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. It's like stepping into another world!

Meet the Animals!

Another exciting place to visit is 'Wing's Wildlife Park'. This park is home to many amazing animals, both local and from other countries. You can see unique Australian animals like Tasmanian devils, quolls, koalas, wombats, and echidnas. There are also many different types of kangaroos and wallabies.

But that's not all! The park also has animals from overseas. You might spot bison, water buffalo, camels, and even monkeys like capuchins and macaques. Plus, there are many birds, including ostriches and eagles, and reptiles like snakes and lizards. It's a fantastic place to learn about animals from all over the world.