Devonport: Tasmania’s Underdog That Just Took Gold
If you’re still thinking Hobart and Launceston are the only contenders for Tasmania’s crown, you might want to take another look. Devonport, once only whispered about as the “Spirit of Tasmania’s landing point,” has officially claimed its place in the national spotlight. That’s right—our very own Devonport has been crowned Australia’s Top Tourism Town for 2024. Surprised? You shouldn’t be.
This isn’t just another award to put on the shelf, it’s a wake-up call. Devonport’s been quietly growing, while everyone was distracted by the big city buzz of Hobart’s MONA or Launceston’s picturesque wine regions. But here’s the kicker, Devonport’s appeal lies not in trying to outshine the rest, but in its unapologetic authenticity.
Let’s get one thing straight, Devonport is not a town trying to be something it’s not. Devonport isn’t chasing trends, it’s creating its own. We’ve long known the beauty of being nestled between the ocean, mountains, and rivers, but now the rest of the world is catching on. Our evolving food scene, led by trailblazers like Mrs Jones Restaurant, is bringing farm to table dining to a new level. If you haven’t had the Mrs Jones experience, well, you’re missing out on what might just be the best culinary gem north of the state. No pretension, just damn good food, straight from the farms surrounding our town.
And let’s not forget, this is a win for the locals, the farmers, the workers, and the small business owners who have been working tirelessly to transform Devonport from a ferry stop to a destination in its own right. We’ve always known the potential was there, and now, it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.
No Dark Mofo, No Problem.
Devonport’s win doesn’t come with flashy festivals or headline grabbing events. It’s not about outdoing anyone, it’s about embracing what makes us unique. While Hobart’s got its MOFO and Launceston has its boutique vineyards, Devonport shines for the pure, unfiltered experience it offers. Natural beauty? Check. Real connections with the people and the land? Double check. We’re not here to put on a show, we’re here to live, work, and enjoy our place in the world, and that’s what keeps people coming back.
This award is a reflection of what we’ve built together, a town with its roots deep in agriculture, community, and innovation. It’s no coincidence that Devonport, with its bustling mix of locals, backpackers, and PALM workers, is also home to Left Field’s Farm Work Loop, connecting people with work, adventure, and a deeper appreciation for the land they’re standing on. Our town is a place where culture and work blend seamlessly, and maybe that’s why it feels like home to so many, even those just passing through.
What’s Next?
Now that Devonport has stepped into the national spotlight, the real question is: What’s next? Well, if you know us, you know we don’t stop here. This is just the beginning. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re part of something bigger. Devonport is growing, evolving, and most importantly, staying true to itself.
So, while the rest of Australia celebrates Devonport’s rise to fame, we’ll be doing what we do best, getting on with the work, taking in the views, and welcoming the world to experience our way of life.
Because here’s the thing: Devonport isn’t just a top tourist town. It’s a community, and it’s a damn good one at that.
Welcome to the real Tasmania.
