Ranelagh, Tasmania

Ranelagh
Tasmania
Ranelagh Soldiers Memorial Hall
Ranelagh is located in Tasmania
Ranelagh
Ranelagh
Coordinates43°01′S 147°02′E / 43.017°S 147.033°E / -43.017; 147.033
Population1,484 (2021 census)[1]
Postcode(s)7109
LGA(s)Huon Valley Council
Federal division(s)Franklin
Suburbs around Ranelagh:
Huonville Ranelagh

Ranelagh is a township in the Huon Valley of Tasmania, Australia. Adjacent to Huonville, it serves as a residential area for commuters, a tourist destination, and a hub for agricultural activities. At the 2021 census, Ranelagh had a population of 1,484.[2]

History

Ranelagh, originally known as Victoria, was renamed following the gazettal of Huonville as a town in 1891.[3] The area developed as a farming community, with fertile soil supporting orchards and vineyards. In the 20th century, its proximity to Huonville and Hobart led to its growth as a residential and lifestyle area. Today, Ranelagh blends historic charm with modern tourism and agricultural ventures.

Features

Ranelagh is a semi-rural locality centred around Marguerite and Wilmot Streets. Marguerite Street hosts the Ranelagh Soldiers' Memorial Hall, which was opened in 1924 to commemorate local soldiers who served in World War I.[4] The street also includes the Summer Kitchen Cafe, Ranelagh General Store, and the Ranelagh Showgrounds.

Wilmot Street features the heritage-listed Clifton Estate (previously known as Matilda's of Ranelagh), which once hosted Queen Elizabeth II.[5] It is also home to St Marys of the Cross Catholic Church and St James Anglican Church, each with historic cemeteries.[6]

Notable establishments include the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy-winning Home Hill Winery, a key player in Tasmania's wine industry,[7] and Huon Bush Retreats, a popular eco-tourism destination.

Tourism and Events

Ranelagh is renowned for its vibrant community events, held primarily at the Ranelagh Showgrounds. These include the annual Huon Show, which showcases the region's agricultural heritage, and the Taste of the Huon festival, celebrating local food, wine, and culture.[8][9]

The town's picturesque landscapes and proximity to the Huon River attract visitors year-round for activities such as kayaking, bushwalking, and exploring its wineries and farm gates.

Agriculture

Ranelagh retains its agricultural roots, with the fertile Huon Valley supporting a range of industries, including apple orchards, vineyards, and small-scale farms. The area contributes significantly to Tasmania's reputation as a producer of high-quality produce and wine.

References

  1. ^ "2021 Census QuickStats: Ranelagh". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
  2. ^ "2021 Census QuickStats: Ranelagh". Australian Bureau of Statistics. Retrieved 21 December 2024.
  3. ^ "HUONVILLE". utas.edu.au. University of Tasmania. Retrieved 18 May 2016.
  4. ^ "RANELAGH Soldiers' Memorial Hall Opened". National Library of Australia. 19 May 1924. Retrieved 15 October 2013.
  5. ^ "'Clifton', the Tasmanian beauty that had Her Majesty the Queen visiting". Property Observer. 19 December 2013. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
  6. ^ "Anglican Church in Tasmania - Parishes". Retrieved 15 October 2013.
  7. ^ "Tasmanian winery running short of prize-winning pinot noir". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2 November 2015. Retrieved 28 December 2015.
  8. ^ "Taste of the Huon". Taste of the Huon. Retrieved 15 October 2013.
  9. ^ "Huon Show". Huon Show. Retrieved 15 October 2013.
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