Devonport, Tasmania

Port city in Tasmania, Australia

Devonport

Limilinaturi (Northern Tasmanian)

Tasmania

From top; left to right: Devonport aerial, Rooke Street, Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, Home Hill estate, Heritage Walk Track, Spirit of Tasmania I

Devonport

Coordinates| 41°10′48″S 146°21′01″E﻿ / ﻿41.18000°S 146.35028°E﻿ / -41.18000; 146.35028
Population| 26,150 (2021)[1] (46th)
Established| 1850
Postcode(s)| 7310
Elevation| 9 m (30 ft)
Time zone| AEST (UTC+10)
• Summer (DST)| AEDT (UTC+11)
Location|

* 47 km (29 mi) from Burnie
* 98 km (61 mi) from Launceston
* 277 km (172 mi) from Hobart

LGA(s)| City of Devonport
State electorate(s)| Braddon
Federal division(s)| Braddon
| Mean max temp[2] | Mean min temp[2] | Annual rainfall[2]

|
|

17.0 °C
63 °F | 8.3 °C
47 °F | 773.0 mm
30.4 in

Devonport (/ˈdɛvənpɔːrt/ DEV-ən-port;[3] pirinilaplu/palawa kani: Limilinaturi)[4] is a port city situated at the mouth of the Mersey River on the north-west coast of Tasmania, Australia. Positioned 47 kilometres (29 mi) east of Burnie and 98 kilometres (61 mi) north of Launceston, its harbour manages over half of Tasmania's imports and exports, standing as the busiest freight port on the island.[5] Devonport also plays a central role in Tasmania's trade sector, supporting industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The City of Devonport's gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $3.5b in 2023.[5][6]

The city is home to the Spirit of Tasmania's passenger terminal, facilitating roll-on/roll-off (RORO) ferry operations connecting mainland Australia and Tasmania since July 1985. In the 2022-23 fiscal year, the Port of Devonport welcomed over 450,000 passengers.[7] The completion of the $240m Quaylink project is expected to increase this capacity by an additional 160,000 passengers annually.[5][8]

Devonport was established in 1893 through the amalgamation of the 1850s settlements of Torquay on the east bank and Formby on the west bank of the Mersey River. The township became a municipality in 1907[9] and was designated a city by Prince Charles on 21 April 1981.[10] Devonport holds the status of Tasmania's third-largest city, with an urban population of 26,150 at the 2021 Australian census,[1] encompassing a total of 48,293 residents living within the greater statistical area.[11]

Despite its relatively small size, Devonport has facilitated business for many pioneering industries that achieved notable success on a national scale. Circa 1901, the Finlayson family foundry, known for its innovation,[12] engineered what is believed to be the first steam car in the southern hemisphere.[13][14][15] Similarly, family members of shipping company Holyman & Sons played a pivotal role in establishing the first airline connecting Bass Strait in 1934 as Holyman Airway's, which eventually evolved into Australian National Airways and subsequently merged with Ansett.[16][17][18]

Devonport holds a significant place in Australian political history as the home town of both Joseph Lyons, the tenth Prime Minister of Australia, and his wife, Dame Enid Lyons. Dame Enid made history as the first woman elected to the House of Representatives and the first woman to serve in the federal cabinet. Enid lived at the family residence, "Home Hill" until her death in 1981. Recognised for its historical significance, Home Hill has become a popular tourist destination and is registered with the National Trust of Australia.[19]

## History

[edit]

The history of Devonport is rooted in its indigenous heritage and shaped by European settlement, economic developments and transportation infrastructure.

### Early inhabitants

[edit]

See also: Bass Strait § By Aboriginal peoples

The pirinilaplu, or Punnilerpanner peoples, along with other indigenous groups such as the Pallittorre and Noeteeler, are the original inhabitants of the Tommeginne territory, encompassing Devonport and the northern Tasmanian region. Their cultural heritage and enduring ties to the land have profoundly influenced the identity of the region. Through their traditions and resilience, they continue to play a vital role in shaping the fabric of Devonport and its surrounding areas.[20]

### European settlement before 1850

[edit]

Exploration of the Mersey River was undertaken in 1823, however initial observations by the British were unfavourable. Following the arrival of the Van Diemen's Land Company in 1826, the district underwent further exploration and surveying. Settlers commenced arriving later in the same year.[21] Indigenous resistance to settlement was evident, leading to the killing of Captain Bartholomew Boyle Thomas on 31 August 1831.[22]

The first European settlement in the Devonport region, predating 1850, was established on a block of land at Frogmore, near present-day Latrobe. It was a modest beginning that set the stage for future developments.[23]

### Arrival of settlers and economic growth (1850-1870s)

[edit]

In 1850, the arrival of a settler named Oldaker marked the establishment of present-day Devonport. Saw milling and coal mining gained momentum with the arrival of English settlers aboard the sailing ship Balmoral in 1854.[24] During the 1850s, twin settlements, Formby and Torquay, emerged on opposite banks at the mouth of the Mersey River.[25] Torquay, the larger of the two, thrived with various amenities, including police, post offices, magistrate services, hotels, shipyards, and stores. A river ferry service connected Formby and Torquay.[26]

Between 1870 and 1880, the shipping industry experienced growth, leading to efforts to deepen the mouth of the river.[23] This development facilitated the commencement of regular steamer services between the Mersey and Melbourne.[27]

### Key developments (1880s-1900s)

[edit]

Mersey Bluff Lighthouse at sunset, 2015

In 1882, the construction of the Marine Board building, which still stands today, became a notable landmark. The completion of the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse in 1889 enhanced maritime safety in the region. The turn of the century witnessed significant changes, especially with the railway's impact on the Formby community. The railway combined a railhead and port facilities, leading to a building boom in Formby.[28][29]

In 1890, a public vote united Torquay and Formby, officially forming the town of Devonport. The opening of the Victoria Bridge in 1902 provided a crucial land transport link between Devonport and East Devonport, fostering further connectivity.

Central Devonport, 1908

During this period, the Melrose-Eugenana region's limestone deposits played a vital role in supporting industrial activities. Limestone quarries supplied smelters of BHP, and in 1916, the government rebuilt the old Don Railway to transport limestone from Melrose to the Devonport wharves, further facilitating industrial growth.[30]

In 1924, the Victoria Bridge faced a setback when it collapsed due to continuous boring by Teredo worms. Despite this, there were no casualties, and the bridge underwent partial reconstruction and strengthening, showcasing the resilience of the community in the face of challenges.[31]

#### Emergence of the Goliath-Portland Cement Company (1926)

[edit]

Goliath Cement, now known as Cement Australia, traces its origins back to the Tasmanian Cement Company in 1923.[32] Supercharged by abundant limestone deposits and Railton's proximity to shipping outlets, the company pioneered advancements such as the development of bulk cement transportation by sea and boasted the first fully automatic mill in Australia.[33] The Railton facility, significant for its role in supplying cement for iconic projects like the Sydney Harbour Bridge,[34] also produced asbestos products from 1947 to 1986, resulting in the company addressing compensation settlements to 3,000 workers who were exposed to asbestos in 2010.[35]

### Advancements in transportation and infrastructure (1930s-1950s)

[edit]

Ovaltine Factory, circa 1940s

The 1930s brought notable advancements in transportation with the introduction of the motor car. Street sealing projects progressed, main roads were improved, and goods could move more efficiently. Constructed by Hansen Yuncken, Ovaltine opened its second-largest factory in Devonport to facilitate the demands of the Australasian and Southeast Asian markets in 1943.[36][37]

The 1950s witnessed prosperity and expansion as Devonport attracted many secondary industries, leading to the growth of transport and service sectors, businesses, and a steadily increasing population. In 1952, the opening of the aerodrome at Pardoe marked a new era in air travel, with regular airline services connecting Devonport and Melbourne.

#### Princess of Tasmania ferry service (1959)

[edit]

See also: Bass Strait ferries

The Princess of Tasmania was the world's largest ferry in 1959

The establishment of the roll-on/roll-off (RORO) terminal at East Devonport in 1959 further enhanced transportation capabilities, with the Princess of Tasmania ferry service commencing operations. The Princess of Tasmania service, popularised for its innovative 'sea road' concept, facilitated vehicle travel between Victoria and Tasmania, responding to the growing demand from tourists who sought independent car exploration.[38][39] Carrying 100 vehicles and over 300 people,[40] the Princess of Tasmania boasted the world's longest RORO service covering 230 nautical miles (430 km; 260 mi) and contributing significantly to Tasmania's appeal as a tourist destination. The ferry's roll-on, roll-off feature set a global standard in maritime transportation.

### Residential Expansion and infrastructure upgrades (1950s-1970s)

[edit]

The following two decades witnessed the town's residential area expanding west across the ridge into the Don Valley, north along the heights of Coles Beach, and south on both sides of the river. Devonport, during these years, emerged as one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Australia.

In 1973, a new concrete bridge replaced the old, battered Victoria Bridge, providing improved infrastructure with the Bass Highway passing directly through Devonport. The city's prosperity continued well into the 1990s, with the port remaining its lifeblood, sustained by the contributions of farming and manufacturing industries.

### City proclamation and modern developments (1981-2014)

[edit]

Devonport achieved city status on 21 April 1981, proclaimed by Prince Charles in a ceremony held on the Devonport Oval.

From 1983-1984, the Devonport Warriors competed in the National Basketball League (NBL). The Warriors were forced to exit the NBL after the league announced it would be culled to 14 teams by 1985. The club never experienced financial hardship, and although the Warriors only won four games in 1984, ten of its losses had been by ten points or less.

Opening in 2001, the Pandemonium Discovery & Adventure was the North West Coast's largest indoor entertainment venue. Featuring an indoor play area, rock climbing, laser skirmish, skate ramp, and diverse science-focused exhibits, the centre catered to all ages, promoting health through active participation and recreation. The Imaginarium Science Centre located within the complex provided visitors with dynamic hands-on exhibits, programs, and changing displays. From 2001 until its closure in 2009, it hosted compelling traveling exhibitions from renowned science centers, such as 'Body in Action' from Te Manawa and 'Dinosaur Eggs and Babies' from Otago Museum and Gondwana Studios.

In 2014, after 160 years of continuous service, the cross-river ferry service was discontinued following the retirement of the Torquay ferry. However, it later resumed operations.[41][42]

The town received national attention on 16 December 2021, when a jumping castle and two zorbs were lifted into the air by a gust of a wind at Hillcrest primary school, killing six children and injuring three.[43][44]

## Demographics

[edit]

See also: List of places in Tasmania by population

Historical populationYear| Pop.| ±%

|
|

1986| 24,417[47]| —
1991| 24,622[47]| +0.8%
2001| 21,528| −12.6%
2006| 22,315| +3.7%
2011| 22,770| +2.0%
2016| 23,044| +1.2%
2021| 26,150| +13.5%
2023| 26,997[48]| +3.2%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics data.[45][46]

In 2021, the population of Devonport was 26,150.[1] External population demographics estimate the resident population for Devonport at 26,977 in 2023, with a population density of 242.8 people per square km across a land area of 111.1 km2 (42.9 sq mi).[49] Devonport City Council has set specific population growth goals for the city, aiming to achieve a population of 30,000 by 2030 and 35,000 by 2040.[50][51]

The median weekly household income is $1,167, compared to $1,746 nationally. 24.6% of households total weekly income is less than $650 week, while 10.4% of households weekly income exceeds $3,000. This compares to national rates of 16.5% and 24.3% respectively.

34.3% of households renting, and 8.1% of owned households with a mortgage experience housing stress, where rent or mortgage repayments payments exceed 30% of total income.

Devonport is home to a sizable First Nations population, with 1,971 residents, comprising 7.5% of the population, identifying as Indigenous Australians. This percentage surpasses the national average of 3.8% of the total Australian population.[52] 83.6% of residents were born in Australia. 2.9% were born in England, 0.8% in India and New Zealand and 0.6% in each Nepal, Philippines and Mainland China.[53]

89.9% of people spoke only English at home. 6.3% of households use a non-English language, including Mandarin (0.8%), Nepali (0.7%), Punjabi (0.4%) and Vietnamese and Tongan (0.3%).

In the 2021 census, 51.1% of people in Devonport professed no religion. 38.7% specified a Christian religious affiliation (including 12.4% as Anglicanism, 11.6% Catholic and 3.5% Uniting Church). Other religious affiliations include Hinduism (1.1%), Buddhism (0.9%), Islam (0.4%) and Sikhism (0.3%).[53]

## Geography

[edit]

### Climate

[edit]

Devonport has an oceanic climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb) bordering on a mild-summer mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csb). Most days from January to March are mild, averaging 19 to 24 °C (66 to 75 °F) with frequent sunshine, although cold fronts are a regular visitor even at the height of summer and some days may not exceed 15 °C (59 °F). The warmest and driest days can occasionally reach up to 28 °C (82 °F). Unlike the east coast of Tasmania, moist northwesterly winds prevent heatwaves and temperatures rarely if ever reach above 30 °C (86 °F).

Winters are cool and cloudy with frequent light rain; July and August are the wettest months of the year. Due to ample cloud cover and marine influence, winter temperatures rarely drop below 0 °C (32 °F) or rise above 15 °C (59 °F). September to December usually features cool to mild, windy weather with frequent showers, and occasional warm, sunny breaks.

Despite being nearly two degrees of latitude northward, Devonport is a cooler climate than Hobart due to being windward of the ranges.

Climate data for Devonport Airport (means and rainfall 1991–2020, extremes 1991–2022)

Month  | Jan  | Feb  | Mar  | Apr  | May  | Jun  | Jul  | Aug  | Sep  | Oct  | Nov  | Dec  | Year
Record high °C (°F)  | 33.2
(91.8)  | 30.6
(87.1)  | 29.0
(84.2)  | 24.9
(76.8)  | 20.7
(69.3)  | 18.8
(65.8)  | 17.2
(63.0)  | 18.1
(64.6)  | 20.0
(68.0)  | 25.9
(78.6)  | 28.2
(82.8)  | 30.9
(87.6)  | 33.2
(91.8)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)  | 21.6
(70.9)  | 21.8
(71.2)  | 20.5
(68.9)  | 17.8
(64.0)  | 15.4
(59.7)  | 13.5
(56.3)  | 12.8
(55.0)  | 13.1
(55.6)  | 14.3
(57.7)  | 16.0
(60.8)  | 18.0
(64.4)  | 19.8
(67.6)  | 17.0
(62.6)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)  | 12.4
(54.3)  | 12.7
(54.9)  | 11.0
(51.8)  | 8.8
(47.8)  | 6.8
(44.2)  | 5.1
(41.2)  | 4.7
(40.5)  | 4.9
(40.8)  | 6.1
(43.0)  | 7.4
(45.3)  | 9.3
(48.7)  | 10.7
(51.3)  | 8.3
(46.9)
Record low °C (°F)  | 4.0
(39.2)  | 4.2
(39.6)  | 1.3
(34.3)  | 0.5
(32.9)  | −1.8
(28.8)  | −1.9
(28.6)  | −2.2
(28.0)  | −1.6
(29.1)  | −2.0
(28.4)  | −0.3
(31.5)  | 0.6
(33.1)  | 1.6
(34.9)  | −2.2
(28.0)
Average rainfall mm (inches)  | 48.0
(1.89)  | 35.3
(1.39)  | 42.8
(1.69)  | 56.8
(2.24)  | 64.4
(2.54)  | 71.8
(2.83)  | 86.3
(3.40)  | 81.5
(3.21)  | 76.8
(3.02)  | 55.2
(2.17)  | 57.1
(2.25)  | 47.4
(1.87)  | 723.4
(28.48)
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) | 7.1  | 6.9  | 7.8  | 9.7  | 12.4  | 13.0  | 15.6  | 16.0  | 15.1  | 12.0  | 10.9  | 8.8  | 135.3
Average afternoon relative humidity (%)  | 61  | 61  | 59  | 62  | 66  | 68  | 69  | 68  | 66  | 63  | 65  | 61  | 64
Mean monthly sunshine hours | 263.5  | 240.1  | 210.8  | 171.0  | 142.6  | 132.0  | 136.4  | 151.9  | 186.0  | 232.5  | 246.0  | 257.3  | 2,370.1
Source 1: Bureau of Meteorology[2]
Source 2: Bureau of Meteorology (1981–1996 sunshine hours)[54]

## Governance

[edit]

See also: Devonport City Council

Mayor of Devonport

Incumbent
Alison Jarman

since 28 October 2022[55]

Style| Councillor
Member of| Devonport City Council
Formation| 1908
First holder| Kerry Berwick[56]

There are nine councillors that govern the Devonport City Council.[57] Alison Jarman was elected mayor of the City of Devonport in 2022.[58] Devonport City Council oversees local governance in Devonport, managing infrastructure, community services, and local regulations. The council is also involved in supporting community development initiatives, including the Devonport Entertainment and Convention Centre. Devonport's political landscape is marked by a blend of conservative and progressive influences, reflecting the region's broader social dynamics.

At the state level, Devonport falls within the Tasmanian House of Assembly’s electoral division of Braddon, a multi-member electorate that includes both Labor and Liberal members.

Nationally, Devonport is located in the federal electorate of Braddon, currently represented by Gavin Pearce of the Liberal Party of Australia. Braddon has traditionally been a marginal seat, with representation often alternating between the Labor and Liberal parties in federal elections.

## Suburbs

[edit]

Areas within Devonport as a suburb include Highfield
Areas within East Devonport as a suburb includes Pardoe Downs, Rannoch, Panorama Heights

The full list of Suburbs of the City of Devonport are: List of suburbs

## Cultural and educational institutions

[edit]

Downtown Devonport with Spirit IThe 1899 Town Hall Theatre is located within the Paranaple Arts Centre

Opening in November 2018, the Paranaple Arts Centre serves as a contemporary focal point for artistic expression and cultural engagement. It is home to the Devonport Regional Gallery, Town Hall Theatre and the Devonport Visitor Information Centre. The Paranaple hosts live performances encompassing a range of genres, including music concerts, theatre productions, dance performances, and other performing arts events.[59] The centre also includes gallery, studio and rehearsal spaces, a theatre, and multipurpose areas designed to host diverse arts-related activities.[60]

The Devonport Regional Gallery evolved from the inception of The Little Gallery, which was founded by Jean Thomas as a private enterprise in 1966. The Gallery presents an annual program of exhibitions, education and public programs including events and workshops. A broad range of selected local artisan works are displayed at the North West Regional Craft Centre and gift store in the CBD.

Tiagarra Aboriginal Culture Centre and Museum, 2016

The Tiagarra Aboriginal Culture Centre and Museum displays petroglyphs, designs in rock and exhibits that depict the traditional lifestyle of Tasmanian Aboriginal people.[61] Meaning "to keep", Tiagarra is one of the oldest Aboriginal-operated museums in Australia, officially opening on 16 October 1976 by Doug Nicholls and Gladys Nicholls.[62]

The Bass Strait Maritime Centre housed in the former Harbour Master's House has objects, models and photographs that tell the stories of Bass Strait and Devonport. Dame Enid Lyons inaugurated an exhibition of maritime memorabilia in 1970, inspiring the establishment of the Tasmanian Maritime and Folk Museum in East Devonport in 1973. By 1980, the museum had relocated to the Harbour Master’s house in Gloucester Avenue. In 1999, a merger with the Devon Historical Society integrated Devonport’s maritime and local history archives into a unified collection. In 2010, the Devonport City Council assumed ownership and management from the volunteer-based organization, leading to the present-day Bass Strait Maritime Centre. The collection, comprising 4500 objects, 200 artworks, photographic prints, negatives, and archival material, explores Devonport and Bass Strait's stories from the early 1800s to the present. Rotating exhibitions feature diverse narratives from the collection.

Devonport Regional Gallery, 2008

A volunteer-run vintage railway and museum, the Don River Railway, is situated at Don, a suburb of Devonport.

The former Devonport Maternity Hospital was recently demolished and the land repurposed into a gated community.[63]

The Mersey Community Hospital at Latrobe serves the Devonport community for their health needs.

Kokoda Barracks is an army barracks in Devonport.

## Transport

[edit]

Devonport offers a range of transportation options, including road networks, intercity bus services, public transport bus services operated by Kinetic, freight rail, passenger ferry, air travel, and alternative modes like cycling and walking pathways.

### Devonport Airport

[edit]

Devonport Airport, located 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) east of the city at Pardoe Downs, is a vital transportation hub, accessible within a 15-minute car ride. Serving as Tasmania's third-largest airline hub, it accommodates Qantas and Rex Airlines, offering six daily passenger flights.[5] QantasLink operates four Bombardier Dash 8 turboprop services to Melbourne.

Encompassing 308 hectares (760 acres), the airport features a main runway measuring 1,838 by 45 metres (6,030 ft × 148 ft) and a secondary grassed runway spanning 880 by 30 metres (2,887 ft × 98 ft). Its infrastructure includes comprehensive taxiways, passenger terminals and general aviation, and maintenance hangars.[64] Recent upgrades in 2020 enhanced the terminal with a new departure lounge, upgraded security, and a dedicated freight apron.[65]

The airport offers refueling services, car parking, rental cars, and taxi facilities. It is connected to Devonport by various bus services, such as Merseylink, Redline Coaches, and Phoenix Coaches, although services on weekends and public holidays are limited.

### Freight transport

[edit]

From Devonport three shipping operators – Strait Link, SeaRoad Shipping and Spirit of Tasmania provide overnight roll-on/roll-off freight service across Bass Strait to Victoria.

Cement Australia has been exporting cement from Railton to Melbourne since 1926. Additional exports by ship include tallow, while coal was an export until the closure of the Fingal Valley coal mine.[66] Imports to Devonport include petroleum, bunker fuel, fertiliser and caustic soda.

Due for completion in 2027, the $240 million Quaylink project, a TasPorts investment of new berths and terminal facilities, is expected to further boost the port's freight operations by 40%.[67][68][69]

### Rail

[edit]

The heritage Don River Railway

TasRail maintains a freight rail line that connects the port area to Burnie and Railton. Previously, Devonport had a railway roundhouse and maintenance rail yards along the Mersey River's foreshore. Today, this space has been transformed into parkland, offering a recreational area for locals and visitors.

Situated in Don, the Don River Railway is a volunteer-run heritage railway and museum providing an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a passenger train ride from Don to Coles Beach. The railway journey traces a reconstructed section of the former Melrose line, historically connecting Don Junction to Paloona.

### Passenger Ferry

[edit]

Devonport serves as the departure point for the Spirit of Tasmania ferries — Spirit of Tasmania I and Spirit of Tasmania II — that travel from Devonport to Geelong, Victoria, taking approximately 11 hours for the voyage. These RORO ferries are crucial for transporting passengers, vehicles, and freight between Tasmania and the Australian mainland, providing an essential link across the Bass Strait.[70][71] A former local ferry service connecting east and west of Devonport named The Spirit of Devonport ceased operations on the Mersey River after more than 160 years in 2022.[72]

Devonport Passenger Ferry History

The first Spirit of Tasmania, 1999 Vessel | Destination | Years | Shipping Company

|
|
|

Oonah | Melbourne  | 1921–1935  | Tasmanian Steamers
Loongana | Melbourne  | 1921–1935  | Tasmanian Steamers
Nairana | Melbourne  | 1921–1948  | Tasmanian Steamers
Taroona | Melbourne  | 1935–1959  | Tasmanian Steamers
Princess of Tasmania | Melbourne  | 1959–1972  | Australian National Line
Empress of Australia | Melbourne  | 1972–1986  | Australian National Line
Abel Tasman | Melbourne  | 1986–1993  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania | Melbourne  | 1993–2002  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania I | Melbourne  | 2002–2022  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania II | Melbourne  | 2002–2022  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania III | Sydney  | 2003–2006  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania I | Geelong  | 2022–  | Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania II | Geelong  | 2022–  | Spirit of Tasmania

## Agriculture

[edit]

Situated within a modest expanse of 114 square kilometres (44 sq mi),[73] Devonport has a solid history in agriculture. Despite the region's spatial limitations, Devonport has been a linchpin in Tasmania's vegetable cultivation, yielding substantial quantities of beans, onions, peas, and potatoes. The post-World War II era witnessed a transformative phase marked by the establishment of processing factories, with a specific emphasis on peas. These facilities assumed a crucial role in the canning, freezing, and dehydrating processes, not only bolstering local sustenance but also fundamentally influencing Tasmania's broader agricultural and food production paradigm.[74] Devonport has since emerged as a key contributor to Australia's agricultural production, with a significant supporting dairy industry, cereals, poppyseed oil and pyrethrum.[73]

## Education

[edit]

Our Lady Of Lourdes Primary School

### Primary schools

[edit]

* Hillcrest Primary School
* Devonport Primary School
* Miandetta Primary School
* East Devonport Primary School
* Nixon Street Primary School
* Spreyton Primary School
* Devonport Christian School
* Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School

### Secondary schools (Years 7–10)

[edit]

* Devonport High School
* Reece High School
* St Brendan-Shaw College
* Devonport Christian School

### Senior secondary education (Years 11–12)

[edit]

* Don College
* St Brendan-Shaw College

A TasTAFE campus, an adult training institution, is situated in Valley Road.

## Sport

[edit]

See also: Sport in Tasmania

Devonport Oval, 2009

Devonport has a rich sporting culture, with the Devonport Football Club (Magpies) competing in the North West Football League (NWFL), having secured back-to-back Senior Premierships in 2021 and 2022. The East Devonport Football Club (Swans) also plays in the NWFL, with teams like Ulverstone and Penguin. The Devonport Rugby Club competes in the Tasmanian Rugby Union Statewide League,[75] and touch football is organised by the Devonport Touch Football Association at Meercroft Park.

In soccer, Devonport City Football Club plays in the National Premier Leagues Tasmania and fields a reserve team in the Northern Championship.

Cricket is represented by the Devonport Cricket Club in the North Western Tasmanian Cricket Association. Devonport’s hockey teams compete in the Hockey Tasmania leagues.

The Devonport Warriors, based at the Devonport Recreation Centre, are the largest basketball club in the North West Basketball Union, with over 750 members and a legacy of success, including hosting the Under-14 Australian Junior Championships in 1974 and representing Devonport in the National Basketball League between 1983-1984.[76][77] Netball is centered at Devonport Netball in Spreyton, participating in statewide events.

Devonport hosts a leg of the Tasmanian Cycling Christmas Carnival Series, along with athletics and woodchopping events.[78]

The Devonport Golf Club has hosted major events like the Tasmanian Open and Tasmanian Seniors Open. The annual Devonport Regatta features powerboat racing, while the Devonport Cup, held in January at the Spreyton racecourse, is a major horse racing event. The city also hosts regular harness and greyhound racing at the Devonport Showgrounds.

The Splash Devonport Aquatic and Leisure Centre offers a gym and indoor pool within the Don Reserve. Devonport Tennis Club and East Devonport Tennis Club compete in the Tennis North West Association, and the annual Devonport Triathlon in February serves as the Oceania continental championship.

## Notable residents

[edit]

See also: Category:People from Devonport, Tasmania

### Arts

[edit]

* John Heyer (1916–2001), documentary filmmaker often described as the father of Australian documentary film
* Monique Brumby, indie pop/rock singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer
* Phil Manning, blues songwriter, guitarist and vocalist of Chain
* Tamara McKinley, author of the Cliffehaven series under the pen name Ellie Dean
* Syd Nicholls (1896–1977), cartoonist best known for the long-running comic strip Fatty Finn
* Gerard Vaughan, art historian and curator

### Other

[edit]

* Max Bound (1924–2012), trade unionist and environmental activist
* Tim Lane, sports broadcaster and journalist

### Politicians

[edit]

* Mike Gaffney, Independent member of the Tasmanian Legislative Council
* Jacqui Lambie, Senator for Tasmania
* Dame Enid Lyons (1897–1981), First woman elected to the House of Representatives and the first woman to serve in the federal cabinet
* Joseph Lyons (1879–1939), 10th Prime Minister of Australia (1932–1939), 26th Premier of Tasmania (1923–1928)
* Steve Martin, Senator for Tasmania (2018–2019)
* Hector McFie (1898–1982), Independent member for Mersey (1954–1972)
* Max Poulter (1913–1962), educator and politician, Senator for Queensland (1961)
* Jeremy Rockliff, 47th Premier of Tasmania

### Sportspeople

[edit]

See also: Category:Sportspeople from Devonport, Tasmania

* John Bowe, V8 Supercar driver
* Nita Burke, Australia women's national basketball team player
* Corey Cadby, darts player
* Marty Clarke, professional basketball player and coach, 1989 NBL Champion (North Melbourne Giants)
* David Foster, woodchopper
* Owen Kelly, NASCAR and V8 Supercar driver
* Jim Nevin, cyclist who competed at the 1952 and 1956 Summer Olympics
* David Parsons, V8 Supercar driver

#### VFL/AFL players

[edit]

* Darrel Baldock (1938–2011), St Kilda (1962–1968)
* Grant Birchall, Hawthorn (2006–2019), Brisbane Lions (2020–2021)
* Matthew Febey, Melbourne (1987, 1990–2000)
* Steven Febey, Melbourne (1987–2001)
* Ben Harrison, Carlton (1995), Richmond (1996–2000), Western Bulldogs (2001–2005)
* Brady Rawlings, North Melbourne (1999–2011)
* Jade Rawlings, Hawthorn (1996–2003), Western Bulldogs (2004–2005), North Melbourne (2006)
* Matthew Richardson, Richmond (1993–2009)
* Dion Scott, Sydney (1990, 1992), Brisbane Bears (1993–1996), Brisbane Lions (1997–1999)
* Graham Wright, Collingwood (1988–1998)

## Sister cities

[edit]

The city of Devonport has a formal sister city agreement with Minamata City in Japan. This was ratified in 1996. Both cities share a similar setting and area.

* Minamata, Japan[79] (1996)
* City of Port Phillip, Victoria, Australia (previous destination for "Spirit of Tasmania" ferries from Devonport, current destination as of 2022 is Geelong).

## See also

[edit]

* The Tasmanian Arboretum

## References

[edit]

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2. ^ a b c d "Climate statistics for Devonport Airport". bom.gov.au. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 11 April 2017.
3. ^ Upton, Clive; Kretzschmar, William A. Jr. (2017). The Routledge Dictionary of Pronunciation for Current English (2nd ed.). Routledge. p. 351\. ISBN 978-1-138-12566-7.
4. ^ pulingina to lutruwita (Tasmania) Place Names Map
5. ^ a b c d "Invest in Devonport's Development". devonport.tas.gov.au. 23 June 2023. Archived from the original on 4 November 2023. Retrieved 9 January 2024.
6. ^ Bingham, Libby (24 November 2023). "Slick plan to connect Devonport with new investors launched by city leaders". The Advocate (Tasmania). Retrieved 9 January 2024.
7. ^ Maloney, Matt (23 October 2023). "Record number of passengers on Spirit of Tasmania vessels". The Examiner (Tasmania). Retrieved 9 January 2024.
8. ^ Spirit of Tasmania to relocate to new Devonport terminal Daily Cargo News 1 August 2024
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33. ^ Rimon, Wendy. "Companion to Tasmanian History: Goliath Cement". University of Tasmania. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
34. ^ "Goliath Cement". Sunday Mail. No. 606\. Queensland, Australia. 6 January 1935. p. 6. Retrieved 29 March 2024 - via National Library of Australia.
35. ^ "New factory owner managing asbestos tragedy". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 8 May 2010. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
36. ^ "Devonport Ovaltine Factory Formally Opened". The Advocate (Australia). Tasmania, Australia. 19 March 1943. p. 2. Retrieved 10 November 2023 - via National Library of Australia.
37. ^ Anderson, Don (director) (1967). More Than Apples (YouTube). Libraries Tasmania. Retrieved 10 November 2023.
38. ^ "The Princess of Tasmania". The Biz. New South Wales, Australia. 18 November 1959. p. 10. Retrieved 11 January 2024 - via National Library of Australia.
39. ^ TSMV EMPRESS OF AUSTRALIA, MV PRINCESS OF TASMANIA, 'Service to and from Tasmania', Searoad, Australian National Line, 1956–1998, 1965, retrieved 11 January 2024
40. ^ "H.M.A.S. Quiberon escorts Princess of Tasmania". Navy News. Vol. 2, no. 20\. Australia, Australia. 2 October 1959. p. 1. Retrieved 11 January 2024 - via National Library of Australia.
41. ^ Dingwall, Doug (22 May 2014). "Devonport to lose its Torquay Ferry service". Retrieved 4 November 2020.
42. ^ "Devonport's Torquay ferry to return". 2 October 2015. Retrieved 4 November 2020.
43. ^ "Australia jumping castle tragedy: five children dead and several critically injured in Tasmania". The Guardian. 16 December 2021. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
44. ^ "Sixth child dies after jumping castle tragedy, as community unites in grief". ABC News. 19 December 2021. Retrieved 19 December 2021.
45. ^ "Statistics by Catalogue Number". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
46. ^ "Search Census data". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
47. ^ a b Castles, Ian (14 January 1993). "Census counts for Small Areas: Tasmania, 1991 Census of Population and Housing" (PDF). Australian Bureau of Statistics. p. 30. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
48. ^ "TasPOPP 2024 Final Report" (PDF). Tasmanian Government. Department of Treasury and Finance. p. 17. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
49. ^ "Devonport City Profile Area". Informed Decisions. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
50. ^ "Greater Devonport Residential Growth Strategy 2021-2041" (PDF). Devonport City Council. Archived from the original (PDF) on 21 February 2024. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
51. ^ Bingham, Libby (2 May 2022). "Devonport's ambitious plan to attract 30,000 residents by 2030". The Advocate (Tasmania). Retrieved 12 April 2024.
52. ^ "Estimates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians". Australian Bureau of Statistics. 31 August 2023. Archived from the original on 10 April 2024. Retrieved 12 April 2024.
53. ^ a b "2021 Devonport, Census Community Profile". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 2 October 2022.
54. ^ "Climate statistics for Forthside Climate Research Station (1981–2010)". bom.gov.au. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 28 October 2017.
55. ^ Flint, Jess (26 October 2022). "Kons out, Brumby in: Changing of the guard in Burnie". The Advocate. Retrieved 21 September 2024.
56. ^ Wade, Rohan (23 January 2003). "Devonport farewells first mayor Kerry". The Examiner. Retrieved 21 September 2024.
57. ^ "Mayor and Aldermen". devonport.tas.gov.au. Retrieved 25 June 2009.
58. ^ "2022/23 Annual Report: Another strong performance for Council during 2022/23 FY". Mirage News. 13 October 2023. Archived from the original on 21 January 2024. Retrieved 21 January 2024.
59. ^ Bingham, Libby (9 January 2022). "Embracing city's public art assets and aspirations". The Advocate (Tasmania). Retrieved 10 January 2024.
60. ^ "Paranaple Arts Centre Technical Specifications" (PDF). Paranaple Arts Centre. Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 March 2023. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
61. ^ Ian Elsner (15 April 2019). "62. David Gough Reclaims Stewardship of Tiagarra for Aboriginal Tasmanians" (Podcast). Museum Archipelago. Retrieved 15 April 2019.
62. ^ "Tiagarra - A Brief History". Tiagarra - Tasmanian Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place. Archived from the original on 24 September 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2024.
63. ^ Leah McBey (7 February 2019). "Multi-million gated community planned for old Devonport maternity hospital land". ABC NEWS. Retrieved 2 August 2021.
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65. ^ Bennett, Lachlan (6 July 2020). "Devonport Airport ready for post-pandemic expansion following upgrade". The Advocate (Tasmania). Retrieved 10 January 2024.
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67. ^ Dunn, James (16 September 2021). "TasPorts expansion works to boost freight capacity". The Australian. Archived from the original on 24 June 2023.
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70. ^ Macdonald, Lucy (23 April 2020). "Spirit of Tasmania to move Victorian operations from Port Melbourne to Geelong". ABC News. Retrieved 4 November 2020.
71. ^ "Spirit of Tasmania facilities at Geelong on track for first sailing". 1 July 2022. Retrieved 7 August 2022.
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75. ^ "Find My Club". Retrieved 21 July 2020.
76. ^ "History - Devonport Basketball Club". Devonport Warriors. Archived from the original on 2 April 2024. Retrieved 17 May 2024.
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79. ^ "Devonport prepares to welcome Sister City delegation from Minamata". 12 March 2017. Retrieved 26 September 2020.

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