Triabunna Between Harbour and History

Triabunna brings together places of maritime remembrance, routes through the town’s history and experiences at Spring Bay Mill. The Tasmanian Seafarers Memorial stands on the waterfront; boat trips depart from the marina, while the Pelican Walk begins near the marina. There is also a self-guided walk to preserved buildings from the penal colony era. For your stay, you can choose to focus on history, culture or time on the water.

Water, walks and planning for Maria Island

The ferry between Triabunna and Darlington takes about 45 minutes. The crossing may vary depending on operating conditions, so it is advisable to check the timetable before you travel. Maria Island is close to Triabunna. There is no vehicle traffic on the island; you can explore on foot or by bicycle. Maria Island entry, Penitentiary and camping fees can be paid online or at the Maria Island Gateway in Triabunna. As payment arrangements may change, you should check them in advance.

The marina is the starting point for various ways to experience the surrounding area from the water: visitors can take a fishing or sightseeing trip in the Mercury Passage, or sail or go boating in Spring Bay. The two options differ mainly in their stated focus and location. If you are planning a trip, check availability with the respective operators.

There are also different starting points and themes for exploring on foot. The self-guided Discovery Walk begins at the Triabunna Visitor Centre and leads to preserved buildings from the penal colony era. The Pelican Walk begins near the marina. Individual buildings and trail conditions on the Discovery Walk may change; check conditions before setting out. You should also pay attention to local conditions on the Pelican Walk.

Experience culture and local history

At Spring Bay Mill, two experiences explore different sides of the place. The Bushfoods Walk is a guided walk through the landscape around the site, led by knowledgeable palawa/pakana guides. It explores Indigenous culture, heritage and culinary traditions, and visitors can sample native plants and fruits. Participation is by appointment and should be confirmed before arrival.

The “Story of the Mill” experience explores the history and present-day adaptive reuse of what was once the world’s largest woodchip mill in Triabunna. Participation is also by appointment. Together, the experiences offer different perspectives: the Bushfoods Walk connects the landscape with cultural and culinary traditions, while “Story of the Mill” focuses on the site’s former industrial use and its present-day adaptive reuse.

The Tasmanian Seafarers Memorial commemorates all Tasmanian seafarers, civilians and members of the armed forces who lost their lives at sea. It also commemorates all people, regardless of nationality or occupation, who lost their lives in Tasmanian waters. The memorial plaques are mounted on a low brick wall shaped like a fish, the first Christian symbol; the wall is topped with an anchor cross. Located on the waterfront, the memorial adds its own maritime focus alongside the historic walks and experiences at Spring Bay Mill.

Local produce and choosing your accommodation

Spring Bay Seafoods is an award-winning, certified organic seafood producer in Triabunna. The company specialises in premium blue mussels as well as farmed and wild-caught scallops. This adds local seafood production to the town’s historical and cultural themes.

When choosing your accommodation, you can consider which experiences you want to shape your stay: booked activities at Spring Bay Mill, self-guided walks through local history, or trips and activities from the marina. The experiences have different formats and focuses; both experiences at Spring Bay Mill require an appointment, while the walks have their own starting points. This lets you choose a suitable base according to your planned itinerary.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Carrick, Rossarden, Sandford, Stanley, Ranelagh, Dennes Point, Prospect Vale, Tullah.

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