Interesting Finds in Launceston, Tasmania

A day before we flew off from Tasmania, on 04.04.2019, was spent exploring Launceston. After breakfast, we set out for a leisurely drive along Flinders Street, following the gentle curves of the Tamar River. The morning light shimmered on the water, creating a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.

Soon, two striking long, rectangular buildings built over the river came into view. Prominent signs announced Seahorse World & Southern Ocean Aquarium and Platypus House. Intrigued, we decided to stop and explore what lay inside.

Inside the aquarium, we were amazed by the sheer number of seahorses displayed up close. Never before had we seen so many of these delicate creatures in one place. Even more memorable was the rare opportunity to gently hold a seahorse in our bare hands under staff supervision - an experience that felt both magical and humbling, and one we will always treasure.

Beyond the seahorses, the aquarium showcased a rich variety of fish and rare marine life from the surrounding waters. Colorful species, fascinating habitats, and informative displays offered us a deeper appreciation of Tasmania’s unique marine ecosystem. It was a wonderful and meaningful way to conclude our journey, leaving us with lasting memories of nature's wonder.

A chance to see an endangered marine species - the "handfish".

Giant Crab.

************************************************

As we enter the Platypus House, the first thing that caught our attention were echidnas which we first encountered in Port Arthur Levander Farm on our way to Port Arthur Historical Site as few days earlier (Read here)

Oysters Indulgence in Tasmania

I am not a great fan of oysters, but then again, a trip to Tasmania without tasting its oysters would be like visiting Penang without indulging in a bowl of the famous Teochew cendol along Penang Road.

On our way back from Port Arthur to Hobart on 29.03.2019, we kept reminding ourselves to watch out for signboards pointing to oyster farms or stalls. We were not disappointed. By chance, we spotted a modest little shop next to a petrol station proudly advertising fresh oysters. Temptation won. For our very first attempt, we bought a pack of twelve plump oysters for just A$16 - a deal too good to resist.

*************************************************

In Bicheno, at Lobster Shack on 30.03.2019, we decided to try oysters for the second time - this round costing A$26 for a dozen. Though pricier than our first encounter, the experience came with a delightful bonus: a sweeping seafront view from the restaurant’s Level 2.

**************************************************

The highlight of our oyster quest came on 03.04.2019, during our journey from Burnie to Launceston. A local friend led us to a “secret” spot by the sea - a vast rocky shoreline where live oysters seemed to grow in endless supply. The challenge, however, was left to each individual’s ingenuity: these creatures clung stubbornly to the rocks, as if glued in place. Armed with a screwdriver, we had to pry them open - sometimes with considerable effort.

But the moment the shell yielded and the briny, succulent flesh slid into the mouth, all the struggle was instantly forgotten. The taste of pure freshness from the sea was worth every scraped knuckle and bead of sweat, and soon enough we were eagerly hunting for more.

In moments like this, I could only wish for a larger stomach and more time. Despite the rugged setting and the effort it demanded, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime oyster-eating adventure - raw, unfiltered, and unforgettable.

In the absence of lime juice, a dash of Tabasco pepper sauce provided just the right kick, cutting through the briny tang of the seawater still clinging to the succulent flesh and balancing its natural salinity with a fiery zest.

Lucy's mom who joined the search was equally 

ecstatic to go through this tasting experience.

George Town - A Retirees Haven?

George Town was not part of our original travel itinerary. It was Lucy’s idea to spend a morning there, partly to catch up with an ex-actor turned artist, Lawrence Mah.

I must admit I was pleasantly surprised. Though small, George Town held a few unexpected discoveries. Chief among them was a retirement home by the seafront, established by the Roman Catholic Church - a model I found both practical and inspiring.

The home offers two types of living arrangements. The first is a row of single-storey detached units right next to the sea, designed for couples or single individuals without serious health issues. Residents here are still healthy enough to care for themselves. Each unit requires a one-time, non-refundable contribution of A$10,000, followed by a monthly service fee of around A$500. This fee covers utilities, sewerage, and other essentials. For seniors who live long lives, the fixed sum becomes remarkably economical. Upon death, the unit reverts back to the Church.

For those whose health declines and who can no longer manage independently, there are communal-style quarters built on a higher platform. This design makes it easier for carers to provide prompt attention. The one-time contribution remains the same, though the monthly charges are higher to cover the additional care needs.

Some might argue that retirees should spend their twilight years in a bustling city, where amenities are plentiful. But as I reflected on the serene seafront and the quiet rhythm of George Town, it struck me that in those fading years, peace and simplicity often outweigh the allure of a noisy metropolis.

Posing with Lawrence in front of his paintings. 
Lawrence, stays in one of the units for the healthy retirees 
which is very comfortable.

*************************************************

Lawrence, a resident of George Town for over forty years proved to be a good guide. We were taken by him to see some of the attractions in George town. The Hillwood Berry Farm is one place worth spending an hour or two. There is a 40-acre farm planted with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Visitors can choose to pick and eat on the spot for free or pick and pay for takeaway. 

Berries are grown in polytunnels and almost all under
hydroponic growing principle.

Fruits blended ice cream at the Farmgate Cafe.

*************************************************

Fish & Chips at the George Town Seafoods, an outlet that sells fresh seafood or cooked meals of fish and chips, acknowledged to be the best in town.