Surprising Strahan

Strahan has many opportunities to occupy your time. Did you find things to you would like to do or will you join us on the cruise up the Gordon River?

Do you remember when they were considering damming the river for hydro electricity In the 80’s? I was busy with babies but it was in the news. The river was saved. Heading out into the harbour  we are soon at Hells Gate. It is so narrow only  80 metres wide. Can you imagine trying to sail through this narrow opening? Captain Kelly tried to make it safer by building a rock wall but this only helped a little.

I am glad they saved the river as it is so peaceful and beautiful. At the  Heritage Landing, there is a list of trees you can identify. You know me and scavenger hunts….off we went and found all the trees.

Sarah island was the home to many convicts. It was considered a harsh, rebellious convict settlement with poor conditions. This changed in 1829 when a storm destroyed much of the infrastructure. Shipbuilding was started on the island and since there was a source of Huon pine and other timbers, it was successful. Convicts learnt skills and their conditions improved.

Now you would think this was a win ,win situation for government and convicts. Government is selling the boats and convicts are not causing problems.  No way…..the Government decided convicts should be punished and wanted them moved to Port Arthur. One group of 10 took an unfinished boat, made it sea worthy and escaped. A year later , 4 were recaptured  in Chile and  brought back to be tried……..”The ship that never was”…..we went to the play but more later.
You have had a leisurely day so far so I think a walk is required……a short one so no sad faces. A short walk to Hogarth falls and it’s mostly flat! A family donated this land and waterfall to the town in the early 1920’s, Local schools look after the area for every one.

Heritage West Coast train trips are considered a must in this area. The train and line is being upgraded so sorry, you will have to come again. See I told you that you would have to come again  and do the activities you missed this time. Afternoon tea? The scones are amazing.

I mentioned a play. 10 convicts took the boat they were building and escaped to sea. 4 were recaptured a year later and brought back to face trial. They were accused with committing mutiny and treason. The play is an audience participation event as there are only 3 actors. Mike was the gunsmith, John Barker. It was hilarious wasn’t it. Everyone joined into the fun and the result of the trial…..it was argued that as the boat had not been registered and had no papers…..it was a felony. A bundle of sticks had been stolen so not a hanging offence. Definitely a fun event!

It’s pouring rain. No bushwalking today……no cheering thank you…..it’s good for you. It may be museums or something else.