As you follow the sandstone ribbons at low tide, petrified leaves time-lined within Fossil Bluff make way for the glacial sea-remnants that settled on Gondwana hundreds of millennia ago. Here, five minutes from holiday town Wynyard, is Tasmania’s richest fossil deposits.
It’s a hidden treasure. And just one of the surprises encountered at this modest, rural community west of Burnie on the North Coast.
FOSSIL BLUFF BEACH
Wynyard’s ancient fossils are abundant and within easy reach. The beach itself is beautiful with picnic tables and a large, open cave system that sets the scene for squash-buckling adventures. Within the fertile jade waters, you’ll find sea-life darting and teeming the system on a clear day.
Stop in at the visitor centre first for Looking for Fossils, a fabulous free resource.
Fossil Bluff. Photo Jess Bonde
HOLIDAY MAKERS WELCOME AT WYNYARD GOLF COURSE
East of Bluff, tame your shank on the stunning nine-hole Wynyard Golf Course on a spit wedged between Inglis River and south sea. Lost balls pale to the views of Blackboy Rocks, shallow reefs, and dramatic coastline guided by the lighthouse.
The members warmly welcome guests, who can tee off just about any time of the day.
WONDERS OF WYNYARD
Within town, admire brass, lacquered veneer, timber spokes and chassis, masterly restored in the Ransley Veteran Car collection. Here, you’ll find more than 14 cars pre-dating 1919 including the world’s oldest Ford (a shared title).
Remarkably, it’s just a few dollars entry into this world-class collection, on loan from speed-boat record holder Francis Ransley who painstakingly restored over a period of 45 years.
World’s oldest Ford, a Model A Ford (shared title), out the front of the Wonders of Wynyard museum.
BLOOMIN’ TULIPS OF TABLE CAPE
Tulips, dutch iris and liliums sought by the Netherlands spring from volcanic soil of Table Cape west of Wynyard in early to mid-spring. The township celebrates the blanketing bouquet this year on October 12, at the Bloomin’ Tulips Festival. The Table Cape Lighthouse paints a charming backdrop, with fascinating lighthouse tours.
Table Cape Tulip Farm. Tourism Tasmania & Tony Crehan
RICHARD GUTTERIDGE GARDENS
Centre yourself on the pleasant gardens upon the banks of the Inglis River by Wynyard Wharf. Cast out a line from the recreational pontoon. Or simply walk the pristine gardens and tribute local fallen at the Wynyard War Memorial.
Enjoy a picnic lunch or dine or scrumptious local fish and chips. Or walk into town and enjoy a seafood feast harvested from a local bounty.
FURTHER AFEILD
Purchase unique gifts or admire local handiworks just 15 minutes east of Wynyard at the Makers Workshop. You’ll also find Hellyer Whisky Distillery close by with tours and tastings available.
Or, walk among old growth forest, with the Tarkine a little more than half and hour’s drive.