Salmon Ponds: Heritage Hatchery and Gardens

The Salmon Ponds is considered to be the oldest trout hatchery not only in Australia but the entire southern hemisphere. It was established in 1861 and it is the birthplace of trout (salmon) in Australia. My friends and I stopped over to enjoy the trout ponds, the green lawns and the historic memorabilia and mini-museum embedded in this 19^th century style establishment.

 

HOW TO GET THERE:

The Salmon Ponds is situated in the magnificent Derwent Valley, just around 45 minutes from Hobart and 10 minutes from New Norfolk. It is on route to Mt Field National Park, via the Glenora Road, (B62) which runs along the western side of the Derwent River. It displays a picturesque view of the river and valley, worthy of a snapshot. Alternatively, you can also go through the Lyell Highway to the West Coast at Bushy Park via the B61.

ADMISSION/TICKET FEES:

Adult               $08.00

Children        $06.00

Family                        $22.00 (Max. 2 Adults)

Group Pass  $06.00 (10 or more people)

Annual Passes are also available

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Apart from the Ponds, which hold different species of trout and the historic museum, there is really nothing much at Salmon Ponds. It is more of a picnic ground and a pit stop for many travellers, before engaging further to New Norfolk’s santuaries like Mt. Field and Russell Falls, which located just 10 minutes away. 

However, if you are in for fishing then you can definitely appreciated the big trouts in the ponds. The ponds have Rainbow, Brown, Brook, Tiger and Albino Trout and Atlantic salmon. You can buy fish feeds from a dispenser located near the entrance and start feeding the trouts. Most of them are ignoring the food, maybe for significant reasons. Yet, still it is worthy of taking photos along the ponds.

You can also walk into the English-style cottages holding important historic memorabilia of trout fishing in Tasmania. These mini-museums take you back to 1865. You can also appreciate the Tasmanian Angling Hall of Fame, built as a tribute to the pioneers of the renowned trout fishery in Tasmania. There was supposed to be a Hatchery but I am not sure as to why they shut it down for public display. Disappointing.

Finally, you can have a quick look on the small stream nearby. Although fishing is allowed on this site, they only cater to people with disability who has license to fish trout. By the way you are only allowed to take 2 salmon or trout fish in the wild in Tasmania. Also, a sign in the brook suggests to watch out for Platypus, suddenly becomes exciting for me. But no luck on that day!

AMENITIES/FACILITIES:

There is a restaurant called The Pancakes by the Ponds restaurant specialises in traditional European style crepes, local Tasmanian wine and aromatic coffee. The Ponds also has ample parking, easy access and facilities for people with disabilities, including well-maintained toilets near the entrance. You can also visit the Souvenir shop and look around worthy gift items from your visit to Tasmania.

OPENING/CLOSING HOURS: Open everyday from 09:00 am to 05:00pm

PERSONAL RATING: 3/5

RECOMMENDATION:

I would recommend Salmon Ponds as a rest stop for busy travellers who are aiming to go toward Mt. Field road and New Norfolk. You can simply bring along picnic basket and relax under the English theme gardens within the grounds. 

For more information check their official website: http://www.salmonponds.com.au

Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership of some of the photos posted herewith.