It’s no wonder Cataract
Gorge has become Launceston’s premier attraction, not just for tourists but for
locals as well. Not many cities can boast such a natural wonder right on its
doorstep, for within a few minutes’ drive or a decent walk from the edge of
town, you can leave the noise and bustle behind and be transported into natural
bushland and established gardens harking back to the Victorian era.
Events and festivals might
bring larger numbers of visitors to the city, but such occasions come and go,
whereas the Gorge is an incredible gift to the region which keeps on giving all
year round. Springtime sees the return of colour, with new growth on bare trees
and flowers bursting into life, then warm Summer days find family picnics
spread far and wide, with the glistening swimming pool just begging to be used.
Autumn sees a softening as deciduous trees come into their own and show their
magnificence, but it is often in Winter that the Gorge attracts more visitors
than usual. Every few years, the north of the State has a habit of experiencing
exceptionally high rainfall, and if the Gorge is in flood, it becomes a mecca. The
usually calm waters are transformed into a broiling witch’s cauldron as
floodwaters thunder through and pour into the Tamar River, an awesome and
spectacular sight.
No matter what the season, the
chair lift ferries people back and forth over the water across First Basin, hikers
are out in force, making use of both easy and challenging trails, the
suspension bridge dares you to cross it without a drunken swagger, while all
and sundry photograph the surrounding wonder, and watch with fascination the peacocks
roaming the gardens showing off their finery.
It’s all too easy to forget
the marvels we have in our own backyard, yearning instead to see the sights in far
off destinations. Travelling near or far to immerse yourself in the sights and
sounds and culture of any country or region can be an illuminating experience,
but let’s not take for granted the valuable natural assets around us that can
also provide enrichment on more than just a physical level.
Gouged through rock
cold waters tumble
gorge defined
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