Hobart is the capital city of the Australian state of Tasmania. After Sydney, Hobart is Australia’s second oldest capital city. It is also the most populous city in Tasmania, founded as early as 1803. The city had a greater area population of approximately 219,287. The city serves as the administrative and financial hub of Tasmania. Hobart is also the home port for both French and Australian Antarctic operations.
Located on the south east corner of the State, the city extends on either side of the River Derwent. Mount Wellington at 1,271 metres high is an important landmark in Hobart. There are a number of beaches, close to Hobart including – Bellerive, Howrah, Kingston, Sandy Bay and Nutgrove Beaches as well as in Frederick Henry Bay such as; Clifton, Roaches, Seven Mile, Cremorne and Goats Beaches. The Tasman Bridge, which connects both the shores of Hobart is a distinctive feature of the city.
Hobart experiences a mild temperate oceanic climate. The city receives the second fewest daily average hours of sunshine at 5.9 hours per day, compared to other Australian cities. However, in the summer months, receives sunshine for the longest period. The city receives up to 15.2 hours of sunshine on the Summer solstice.
Hobart is essentially a seaport and is kept busy, being the home port for the Antarctic activities of France and Australia. The city also plays host to cruise ships during summer, with upto 40 cruise ships docking during a season alone.
The city also boasts of other industries, including ore refinement zinc smelters operated by Nyrstar and shipbuilding, high-speed catamaran factories such as the world renowned Incat. There are large breweries like Cascade which also export the beer. Hobart is also home to the Cadbury chocolate factory. It is responsible for the manufacture of the bulk of Cadbury’s chocolate for the Southern Hemisphere.
Hobart is also a popular tourist destination. The city is known for its nationally celebrated restaurants and cafes and historic inner suburbs. The city is also sought after for its nightlife and vibrant music and culture. The massive weekly market in Salamanca Place is a major tourist attraction as well. Tourists also prefer to explore Tasmania, while staying at Hobart.
The wine industry has thrived in the last 15–20 years in Hobart, with many vineyards having come up in the area. These vineyards are located in countryside areas, away from the city, which include the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, including Moorilla Estate at Berriedale and Coal River Wine Region. One of the most awarded vineyards in Australia is the Moorilla Estate at Berriedale.