George Town Tasmania
Ahoy there, mateys! Calling all explorers, history buffs, and anyone with a thirst for adventure! The Bass and Flinders Maritime Museum in George Town is a treasure chest for the whole family. Dive into Tasmania’s rich maritime history and go on a captivating journey through time, with the legendary Bass and Flinders expedition as your guide.
Meet the Stars of the Show – Bass & Flinders
Travel back in time to 1798 and meet the courageous explorers, George Bass and Matthew Flinders. Their daring voyage aboard the Sloop Norfolk wasn’t just a joyride! They charted the Tasmanian coastline, proving it was an island, and forever changed the map of Australia. The museum proudly displays a full-size replica of the Norfolk. Beyond the Norfolk
The Bass & Flinders museum’s collection goes way beyond Norfolk. Prepare to be amazed by a diverse range of vessels, each with its own incredible story.
The Elizabeth: This feisty whaleboat, captained by James Kelly, braved the waves as it circumnavigated Tasmania in 1815. Imagine the crew battling the elements and charting unknown waters!
The Admiral: This sturdy 28-foot beauty was once an eight-oared ferry, rowing passengers up and down the River Derwent. Kids can imagine themselves pulling the oars and racing against the current!
The Tom Thumb: This tiny replica reminds us that even small boats can have big adventures. Explore the story of the original Tom Thumb, a miniature vessel used by Bass and Flinders in their early explorations.
Exhibits for Curious Minds (of All Ages!)
The museum caters to every pirate and princess in the family.
The Quilters’ Challenge: Admire a collection of intricate quilts depicting scenes from the Bass and Flinders voyage. Imagine yourself sailing alongside them, and see if you can spot the details captured in the stitches!
Map Room Mysteries: Unfurl historical maps and charts, used by navigators of old. Can you find Tasmania? See if you can spot the route taken by Bass and Flinders!
The Melanie: This little sailing dinghy was specially designed for father-and-child teams. Kids can imagine themselves setting sail with their grown-ups on a mini-adventure!
Museum’s Secrets: Tours That Make History Come Alive
Guided tours are a fantastic way to unlock the museum’s hidden gems. Learn how the Norfolk ended up nestled inside the museum, and discover the heartwarming tale of Trim, the ship’s cat who used to nap in the Captain’s cabin. Led by passionate volunteers, these tours are perfect for families, bringing the museum’s collection and Tasmania’s rich history to life with interactive activities and storytelling.
Landlubber’s Delight
For those who like to explore beyond the seafaring world, the museum offers a variety of landlocked exhibits. Browse through a collection of Tasmanian timbers, the sturdy wood used to build the Norfolk, the Admiral, and the Elizabeth. Kids can even touch different types of wood and see if they can guess which one is the strongest! There’s also artwork, collectibles, and even memorabilia from the museum’s time as the old George Town Theatre.
