Or rather to Curringa Farm some 6k short of Hamilton. Tasmania produces 50% of the world’s legal opium supply for pharmaceutical use. So a happy farmer here, as are his 2500 sheep. As we look out over the green pastures it’s hard to take in that in two months he’ll be harvesting the poppies and the pastures will look like a desert.
The day started with a lovely cycle path alongside the river Derwent and the old railway. The commuters were going in the opposite direction. After 13k go left and up, and up. Here you can see how Hobart is hugging the hill side.
The descent opens into a completely different landscape. Small holdings nestling in the bush. New Norfolk is an interesting place. Just outside it at Bovey is Australia’s last paper mill. The Sanitorium in New Norfolk opened in 1827 and closed only in 2000: 23 buildings over 45 acres. The timing reminded me it’s not too different in Wales with the closing of the “shut away bin” for people with learning disabilities in Ely in 1989. Thankfully practices have changed.
The Derwent Valley is dotted with farms and vineyards. And churches, still in good use by the look of the well tended graveyards. Ellendale is a tiny wee place – with a church at either end. Spoilt for choice or did the settlers bring their divides with them?
As for direction, we’re heading north into the centre of Tasmania, the Central Highlands. The lady in the cafe/post office in Ellendale is expecting snow within the next week – we’d better push on!
Travelling reflections 