Hobart Audiotour: Hobarts Historische Hartslag

As you walk along, keep an eye to your left. You'll spot the Hobart Private Hospital quite easily-it's that distinctly modern building with reflective glass windows gleaming in the sunlight, flanked by tall, cylindrical concrete structures that give it a unique look. Alright, now that you've found it, let's dive into some fun facts! The Hobart Private Hospital, boasting a whopping 146 beds, is right in the heart of Hobart's central business district. It's cheek-to-cheek with the Royal Hobart Hospital, creating quite the medical powerhouse duo. Owned by Healthscope, one of Australia's top providers of hospitals and medical centers, this hospital covers almost every health specialty you can think of - from emergency and cardiac care to maternity and orthopedics, and even gastroenterology and plastic surgery. And here's a fun twist in its story: In December 2019, after some nail-biting negotiations, they renewed the lease with Healthscope for another 20 years. So, this landmark isn’t just a nice view; it's a cornerstone of Hobart's healthcare community for years to come! Onwards to the next stop!

Alright, you’re almost there! Look to your right-yes, right there! You’ll see a rather imposing, modern-looking building. It’s got a straightforward, utilitarian design, and it looks pretty secure, doesn’t it? That's the Hobart Reception Centre. Now, here’s an interesting bit about this place: It's actually a maximum-security prison known for housing both male and female inmates. Originally called the Hobart Remand Centre, it opened its doors in January 1999. A tad younger than Hobart's heritage buildings, don’t you think? This facility is operated by the Tasmanian Prison Service, which is part of the Department of Justice. It's the first stop for felons who are either awaiting trial or are awaiting transfer to other facilities. Here's a fun fact-okay, maybe more fascinating than fun-the building spans five floors, housing 40 single-occupancy cells designated for people awaiting trial and 10 additional cells for police watch house cases. Fancy a place with central heating, a shower, toilet, and hand basin in each room? Well, here it’s a necessity! They even have a secure outdoor recreation area on the roof. Now, that’s some high-rise exercise! In January 2007, this place was the scene of a riot when nine inmates barricaded themselves inside. Police and prison officers in riot gear had to step in, making quite the dramatic affair. And here’s something more recent: in 2010, it was reported that the facility was housing some serious long-term inmates, including those convicted of murder, rape, and armed robbery. Quite the eclectic mix, wouldn't you say? You might find it intriguing to know that John Avery, the lawyer who represented the notorious Port Arthur murderer Martin Bryant, also found himself on the other side of the law and ended up spending time here for theft. Okay, ready to continue our journey? Onto the next fascinating spot!

Alright, you're nearing stop number six - Hit 100.9! As you walk down the street, keep an eye on your left. You should spot a building featuring the logo of Hit 100.9 prominently displayed. It has a sleek, modern look with a vibrant teal and white color scheme. The logo is easily recognizable with an 'h.' followed by "HIT 100.9" underneath. Now, let's dive into the fun tale of Hit 100.9 (call sign: 7TTT). This commercial FM radio station, owned and operated by Southern Cross Austereo's Hit Network, has been grooving Hobart's airwaves since 1990. Initially known as Triple T, it was started by local businessman John Bender with help from some Hobart business folks and radio industry veterans. With such a robust backing, the station got an early boost from its alignment with the Austereo network. During its early years as Triple T, the station was packed with iconic shows like Martin/Molloy, Take 40 Australia, Ugly Phil's Hot 30, and Friday Home Free. They even adapted national shows to local flavors, including the popular "Crazy Calls" and "Battle of the Sexes" segments on The Morning Crew. The turning point came in 1996 when the Bender family took full control. They brought in international broadcaster Andrew Reimer to shake things up. Reimer introduced a new breakfast show and revamped the station's format to cater to a younger crowd, mixing classic rock with fresh new hits. The strategy paid off, and Triple T soared in popularity. In 1998, another station, MAGIC 107FM, was launched to target an older demographic. The two stations together captured the lion's share of the Hobart market, making financial success inevitable. By 2004, Triple T was rebranded as Sea FM, aligning with the growing RG Capital network. Fast-forward to 2014: the station moved into a brand-new media center at 2 Melville Street, finally bringing all Southern Cross Austereo brands under one roof. In 2016, the station underwent another transformation, embracing the Hit Network branding and becoming the Hit 100.9 we know today. This station has become a staple in Hobart, mixing vibrant music, community promotions, and lively broadcasts to keep listeners totally tuned in. So, enjoy the groove and maybe hum a tune or two as you pass by Hit 100.9 - Hobart's hit-making hub!

As you approach St. Mary's Cathedral, keep your eyes slightly to the left. You're looking for a striking Gothic Revival structure with a golden-tan sandstone facade, intricate arch detailing around the doors and windows, and a picturesque, spired roof. The building’s imposing size and stunning architecture make it hard to miss! Plus, if you spot the beautiful rose window on the front facing you, you're definitely in the right place. Now for a bit of history. St Mary's Cathedral in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, is the Roman Catholic cathedral here and is where the Archbishop of Hobart, currently Julian Porteous, carries out his duties. Its origins trace back to 1822 when the first permanent Tasmanian priest, Philip Conolly, built a wooden chapel dedicated to St. Virgilius, an Irish Saint, near this very site. Located on Harrington Street, the cathedral's first foundation stone was laid in 1860, designed by William Wardell, a student of the famous architect Augustus Pugin. The building was consecrated in 1866 but due to some construction hiccups, it had to be largely dismantled and re-constructed by architect Henry Hunter in 1878. You've got to love old buildings with character, right? The cathedral boasts a Norman-era baptismal font believed to be from the period of about 1170 to 1200. The first organ here was relocated, but worry not, as the present organ was installed in 1895 after winning first prize at the 1894 International Exhibition of Industry, Science, and Art in Hobart. Pay close attention to the exquisite Hardman Studio window from 1869, a Gothic beauty featuring five lance windows depicting pivotal scenes from the Gospels and heavenly images in the tracery. Marvel at the rose window on the west end and don't miss the other splendid windows like the Pentecost window and the Heroic and Saintly Women window. St. Mary's is not just a cathedral but a repository of history and craftsmanship. Enjoy exploring this architectural marvel!

Ah, welcome to the heart of Hobart! If you look to your left, you’ll spot the bustling Central Business District (CBD). Think of it as the grand epicenter of activity, with its mix of historic and modern buildings creating an eye-catching skyline. You'll see a variety of shops, eateries, and offices, lined up beautifully as if they're posing for a group photo. The vibrant atmosphere is something you simply can't miss! Now, let me sprinkle a bit of excitement on this stop for you. Imagine this place as the energetic organism of Hobart, where every street and building plays a role in keeping the city alive and kicking. Walking through, you might feel like you're part of an adventurous game of "Spot the Landmark!” Here's a fun fact: Did you know that navigating through the CBD can feel like a Wikipedia maze sometimes? Speaking of mazes and Wikipedia, time for a quirky comparison! Picture this - your user page on Wikipedia is like a little shop in the CBD, and when it wasn’t fitting its purpose, someone kindly moved it to your user page, like your virtual home base. But then, someone else added a “prod” template suggesting it should be deleted - that’s like getting a notice that your little shop might have to close down! If you want your shop to stay open, you can discuss it with the virtual “city planners” (or Wikipedia editors), and if they agree, you’re good to go. If not, it might still be reviewed for deletion, like no more shopping here, folks! So, just as in Wikipedia, every spot in the CBD has its purpose and place, contributing to the eclectic, ever-evolving character of Hobart. Enjoy your stroll through this vibrant hub!

As you approach the intersection, look to your right and you'll see a modern building with large, reflective glass windows. The structure has three main visible stories adorned with horizontal bands giving it a sleek, contemporary look. Pay attention to the sign near the entrance that reads "State Library of Tasmania" - that's your landmark! Now, let's dive into the wonderful world of the State Library of Tasmania! Established initially as the "Tasmanian Public Library" in 1849, this library has gone through quite the adventure. Initially opened in a house thanks to a government grant, it became public property in 1860, though it faced some rocky roads early on and had to shut down in 1867 due to financial difficulties. The magic wasn't lost though - in 1870, a new public reference library opened in the Hobart Town Hall, To add some sparkle to this tale, American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie decided to fund the library's move in 1907, with one condition: offering a free lending service. Now that’s a deal we can all get behind, right? Fast forward to 1943, the Libraries Act was passed, formally establishing the State Library of Tasmania. Over time, its footprint spread across the state, though government rationalizations led to the closure of some branches. Then came 2006, a year of integration, where the Library combined forces with the Archives Office, Adult Education, and online access centers to form the Community Knowledge Network - later known as LINC Tasmania in 2009, and ultimately Libraries Tasmania in 2018. Today, this cornerstone at the corner of Murray and Bathurst Streets isn't just home to a vast collection of over 200,000 books, periodicals, and more; it's also a hub for historical and ongoing research. The W. L. Crowther Library, part of this institution, brims with historical treasures amassed by Sir William Crowther. And let’s not forget the wonderful Allport family collection featuring colonial-era artworks, Georgian furniture, and a lot more. If that wasn’t enough, in 1998 the State Library began the "Our Digital Island" project to preserve selected Tasmanian websites for posterity. Imagine a time capsule for the internet, with over 9000 captures available for public viewing! So go ahead, step inside, and dive into the rich heritage that this library proudly protects and shares!

Look to your left and you’ll see an impressive, towering structure of golden sandstone standing proudly at the intersection of Macquarie and Murray Streets. This is St David's Cathedral, with its striking Gothic Revival architecture. It has a prominent square tower made of Oatlands stone, capped with crenellations and intricate arched windows. Don’t miss the arcaded entrance and the large, decorative west window above it. Now, let’s dive into the fun bits about this majestic cathedral! The Cathedral Church of St David is the Anglican cathedral in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, and has been a spiritual anchor since its consecration in 1874. It’s the headquarters for the Diocese of Tasmania and the home base for the Bishop of Tasmania, the Right Reverend Richard Condie. Not only does this place have a bishop, but it also boasts an impressive lineup of deans, with the reigning dean being the Very Reverend Richard Humphrey. St David’s Cathedral grew up fast. Hobart was declared a city in 1842, and the little old St David's Church suddenly got a promotion and became a cathedral. They even laid the foundation stone for this spectacular new building in January 1868, and none other than Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, son of Queen Victoria, did the honors. This cathedral is a Gothic Revival masterpiece designed by the English architect George Frederick Bodley. The construction was a long-term project, spanning from 1868 to 1936. If you peek around inside, you’ll find flags dating back to when Tasmania was more of a convict hotspot. The stained-glass windows are nothing short of a mini-cinema, showcasing saints, knights, kings, and biblical figures. Memorial plaques along the walls pay homage to the dearly departed Tasmanians. Keep an eye out for the cathedral’s hallmark features: a fancy arcaded entrance, a massive west window, and those robust buttressed turrets. There’s also a close on the southern side with ancient trees adding to the charm. This place is prime real estate, sitting at the corner of Macquarie and Murray Streets, and forms a pristine Georgian streetscape - considered one of the finest in Australia. Don’t miss the unique quatrefoils perched on the pinnacles of each gable. Like a diligent symphony conductor, the organ here has evolved over time, with origins in the 19th century and multiple upgrades making it one of Australia’s top-notch instruments. The acoustics and seating for 650 have guaranteed its reputation as a concert hub. The cathedral’s tower houses a peal of 10 bells, dating mostly from 1935, with a few newer additions from 2005, lovingly crafted by John Taylor & Co. They’re rung with aplomb by the Australian and New Zealand Association of Bellringers. This cathedral's mission is all about "Proclaiming Jesus as Lord in the Heart of Hobart," aiming to foster a community brimming with faith, hope, and love. It’s renowned for its contemporary Anglican liturgy and creative worship environments. St David’s serves the city and community with vigor, hosting events from law openings to school gatherings. They even hold a memorial service for the Port Arthur tragedy in the serene Hope Chapel within the cathedral. A notable memorial inside honors Alec Campbell, the last ANZAC soldier, who passed away at 103 in 2002. So there you have it - a cathedral bursting with history, spirituality, and a sprinkle of grandeur that’s sure to leave you in awe!

Alright, as you're walking, keep your eyes peeled to the right. Look out for a panorama of fishing boats docked by the serene waters, with a picturesque backdrop of charming buildings and the striking kunanyi / Mount Wellington looming in the distance. The surroundings look absolutely postcard-worthy! Welcome to Hobart! Pronounced HOH-bart, or as the Indigenous palawa kani language calls it, nipaluna, it's the lively capital of Tasmania. This city is perched on the estuary of the River Derwent and holds the title of the southernmost capital in all of Australia. Even though almost half of Tasmania's population resides here, it's the least-populated state capital in the country. Kunanyi / Mount Wellington, which stands at 1,271 meters (4,170 feet), dominates Hobart's skyline. Fun fact: Hobart's harbour is the second-deepest natural port in the world, and much of the waterfront is on reclaimed land. Before the British set up shop here, the land had been home to Aboriginal Tasmanians for up to 35,000 years. Hobart was founded in 1804 as a British penal colony, making it the second-oldest capital city in Australia. It's had quite the journey, from being a whaling hub to experiencing growth spurts and downturns, transforming through the ages with waves of immigration and economic booms. Hobart is the financial and administrative heart of Tasmania today, and it's known for its Antarctic operations. It's also a hot tourist spot, famous for its convict-era architecture, quirky Salamanca Market, and the world-renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). The city's name has evolved over time, from Hobart Town and Hobarton to simply Hobart. And yes, the locals here are called Hobartians. As you stroll along and soak in the harbor’s vibrant atmosphere, you're standing in a place with rich and varied history, embracing both its ancient roots and contemporary charm. Enjoy the beautiful sights and the unique tales Hobart has to offer! Exploring the realm of the name, geography or the urban structure? Feel free to consult the chat section for additional information.

As you approach Hobart Town Hall, look to your right. You'll spot a grand sandstone building that's impossible to miss! Its Victorian elegance is pronounced, with three large arches welcoming you at the entrance, reminiscent of the Palazzo Farnese in Rome. The structure is topped with a flagpole, soaring high above, proudly displaying a flag. The windows are adorned with decorative pediments, and there's an overall sense of historical charm mixed with ornate detailing. ### Fun Fact: Hobart Town Hall isn't just a pretty face! This landmark sandstone beauty is the heart of the City of Hobart's local government. Hosting council meetings and featuring a public auditorium, it's a hub of local activity. Need a venue for an event? You can hire the auditorium from the council. Plus, it’s a blast from the past with periodic public tours showcasing its ornate Victorian auditorium and the Town Hall organ, in use since 1870! Here’s a nugget of history for you: Construction kicked off in 1864. The foundation stone? Laid on April 14, which was such a big deal it turned into a public holiday with a parade. Fast forward two years, and on September 25, 1866, the completion was celebrated with another holiday and a grand gala ball. Designed by Henry Hunter, this hall was initially inspired by the grandeur of Rome’s Palazzo Farnese. Originally, it housed the city council chambers, police offices, a municipal court, and even the State Library of Tasmania. Imagine that! For nearly fifty years, it was a bustling center of activity. By 1925, though, the prominent portico had seen better days, leading to major restoration work. And in the spirit of keeping things sparkly, the well-known chandeliers in the ballroom were added by former Lord Mayor Doone Kennedy. Take a moment to admire this piece of history before we move on to our next stop. Enjoy!

As you approach the last stop, the Anglesea Barracks will come up on your right. Keep an eye out for a grandiose sandstone building with a reddish roof and symmetrical window layout. You'll spot a flagpole hoisting the Australian flag at the front, alongside historical cannons that seem to be standing guard. The building is fronted by a neatly manicured lawn, bordered by a distinctive yellow fence that contours the area. Anglesea Barracks is an Australian Defence Force barracks in central Hobart, Tasmania. This military outpost's site was handpicked by Lachlan Macquarie in December 1811, and construction of the first buildings kicked off in 1814. Not only does it hold the title of the oldest Australian Army barracks still in use, but it also celebrated its bicentenary in December 2011. Named after Henry Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey, who had ties with the Board of Ordnance, the barracks serves as the administrative hub for all Defence sites in Tasmania. Inside the barracks, you'll find a blend of civilian and military units like the Battalion HQ, the Royal Tasmania Regiment, and the Australian Army Band - Tasmania. Plus, it's home to the Navy Headquarters Tasmania and even has a medical center, making it both a bustling administrative and healthcare hub. The barracks also boast an Officers' Mess and Sergeants' Mess, ideal for social and ceremonial gatherings. Don't miss the Army Museum of Tasmania, located in the old gaol, offering a glimpse into the storied past of the Australian Army. Adding to its significance, Anglesea Barracks is one of the locations for a Defence National Contact Centre, partnering with another in Cooma, NSW. From the rich history to its modern-day importance, the Anglesea Barracks is indeed a fitting end to your Hobart tour. So, salute to the history in every brick and enjoy your visit!