Risdon Vale, Tasmania facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Risdon Vale Hobart, Tasmania
Risdon Vale, from Sugarloaf Road looking north-east
Risdon Vale Location in Hobart
Population	3,563 (2021 census)
Postcode(s)	7016
LGA(s)	City of Clarence
Federal Division(s)	Franklin
Suburbs around Risdon Vale: Otago Grasstree Hill Risdon Risdon Vale Geilston Bay Geilston Bay

Risdon Vale is a suburb located in Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, Australia. It sits on the eastern side of the River Derwent. This area is quite special because it's right next to Risdon Cove, which was an important place when the British first settled in Van Diemen's Land (the old name for Tasmania).

A Look Back: Risdon Vale's History

Risdon Vale started to grow in the 1960s. The local Post Office opened on November 1, 1960. Between 1961 and 1963, many new houses were built. The first areas to be developed were south of Gardenia Road and around Waratah Road. Risdon Vale Primary School also began around 1960, serving the new families moving into the area.

Risdon Vale Today: What's Here?

Today, Risdon Vale is home to about 3,000 people. It's known for a few key places and features.

Important Facilities

Risdon Vale is where you'll find Risdon Prison and Risdon Women's Prison. These are important facilities for Tasmania.

Nature and Outdoor Fun

Close by is Risdon Brook Park and Dam. This is a great spot for outdoor activities! You can enjoy a pleasant 4-kilometer walking track around the dam. From here, you get amazing views of Mount Wellington and the surrounding landscape.

Understanding Bushfire Risks

Much of Risdon Vale is surrounded by natural bushland. This land can become very dry in summer, which means there's a high risk of bushfires. The area has experienced bushfires in the past. To help keep everyone safe, the Risdon Vale Volunteer Fire Brigade was started in September 1981. Their fire station, located on Sugarloaf Road, opened on May 14, 1982. These brave volunteers work hard to protect the community.

Getting Around: Roads and Buses

Risdon Vale is connected to other parts of Hobart and beyond by several roads.

Main Roads

• The East Derwent Highway connects Risdon Vale directly to the center of Hobart.
• The Bowen Bridge links the suburb to Glenorchy.
• Grasstree Hill Road goes north from Risdon Vale to the historic town of Richmond.

Public Transport: Buses

Metro Tasmania provides bus services from Risdon Vale. You can catch a bus to central terminals in Hobart or Rosny Park. Buses also travel to Glenorchy and even as far as Bridgewater. This makes it easy for residents to travel around the region.