Tasman Island facts for kids

Tasman Island is a small island located in the south-eastern part of Australia. It is a special part of Tasmania, a state known for its beautiful natural areas. This island is about 1.2 square kilometers in size. Imagine a flat top of a mountain surrounded by very steep sides – that's what Tasman Island looks like! This flat top is called a plateau, and it sits about 280 meters above the sea level. The very highest point on the island is around 300 meters above the sea.

Tasman Island, with the Tasman peninsula in the background.

The lighthouse, and the cottages of its keepers

Discovering Tasman Island

Tasman Island was named after a famous Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman. He was one of the first Europeans to explore this part of the world. Today, Tasman Island is an important part of the Tasman National Park. This means it is protected and cared for, helping to keep its unique nature safe.

The Tasman Island Lighthouse

In 1905, a tall lighthouse was built on Tasman Island. Lighthouses are like giant beacons that help ships find their way and stay safe, especially at night or in bad weather. For many years, people called lighthouse keepers lived on the island to make sure the light was always shining. They lived in small cottages right next to the lighthouse.

However, things changed in 1977. The lighthouse became "automatic," which means it could work all by itself using machines and technology. Because of this, the lighthouse keepers were no longer needed, and they moved off the island. Even though no one lives there permanently now, the lighthouse still shines brightly, guiding ships safely past the coast. The island also has a weather station that helps scientists understand the weather patterns in this part of Australia.

Wildlife on Tasman Island

Even though it's a small island, Tasman Island is home to many interesting animals, especially birds. It's a very important place for different kinds of seabirds to build their nests and raise their young. For example, the island is a major breeding site for fairy prions. These small seabirds come to the island to lay their eggs and take care of their chicks. Protecting places like Tasman Island helps these amazing birds continue their life cycle safely.

Images for kids

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  The island is a major breeding site for fairy prions.

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  The Tasman Island with the Tasman Peninsula in the background, ca. 1987.

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  Tasman Island 2017