PORTS OF CALL - Australia / New Zealand
Burnie, Tasmania
Burnie is a lively, attractive port city on the northwest coast of Tasmania, originally settled in 1827 as Emu Bay. With its broad beaches and rising hills, Burnie is as physically attractive as it is culturally interesting. The city's architecture reflects the history of industry in this remote part of the world, starting with sheep and moving to tin to silver, and now to cargo shipping. Known for its lovely waterfalls, winding gardens and scenic vistas, Burnie is also a good place to see a penguin or a platypus.
Don't Miss
You definitely want to check out the wildlife here - don't miss the chance to see penguins in the Little Penguin Observation Centre, and especially don't miss the chance to visit Fernglade and see a platypus, that mysterious duck-billed, egg-laying mammal. Guide Falls, an easily accessibly waterfall, is also worth a visit, as is the Roundhill Lookout, which offers sweeping views of the city and bay.
Sporting Adventures
Burnie is a good place to go on a long walk. Behind the town are a number of waterfalls and interesting bushwalks (the most accessible falls are the Guide Falls) which are clearly marked. Burnie Park with its lawns, shady walkways, animal enclosures and Burnie Inn is one of the prettiest parks in Tasmania. The park's animal reserve is home to ducks, swans, peacocks, emus, wallabies and rabbits.
Shopping for Bargains
In the antique shops you can find colonial relics or furniture crafted from rare and fragrant Huon pine. You can take home a bit of Tasmania's history and nature in one beautiful package.
Local Flavours
Burnie is famous for its fine cheeses and other dairy products. Sample a few and decide which one to take on board with you.
Currency
The local currency used in Burnie is the Australian dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted. And you can use your ATM card at banks around the country as long as your card is connected to the international banking network. Travelers' checks are also accepted.