Hobart, Tasmania and Sydney, New South Whales were established around the same time. In the pictures, however, you can see many differences on what direction each city went since establishment. Hobart is a much smaller city and has kept its old buildings and a fishing community character. At one time, locals say that Hobart was a large whaling port. Now, Sea Sheppard whale conservation ships use this as their home port. Things have certainly changed. Abalone and scallop fishing are a big industry now, and are highly regulated.
Tomorrow, I am taking a trip to Mt. Wellington, Mt. Field National Park, and Russell Falls. Along the way, we will stop at a park to see Tasmanian Devils! I am really looking forward to seeing Tasmanian Devils because their future is not certain (also, who does not love Taz from Bugs Bunny?). Most of the devils are now infected with a facial tumor disease that leads to their death by starvation. A local told me that 20 years ago you would often see devils by the side of the road or as road kill. Now, you can only count on seeing them in a wildlife park.
To end again on a lighter note, I have only heard "g’day" twice and it was by the same person. I also have not had any shrimp on the barbie, or any vegemite sandwiches, but I did hear Land Down Under by Men at Work which made me smile. Maybe soon, these Aussies will start acting more Australian… ;-)
FYI- if you have a vegemite sandwich, have a mint and water at hand. :)
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