THE OFF SEASON: A Cosy Retreat

by Stephanie Williams

It’s all about how you settle in. This Off Season is an invitation to slow the pace and reconnect with the important people in your life, where shared moments take shape around firelight, comfort and unhurried time together.

A Starlit Family Camp-In

Experience the quiet rhythm of a winter night at Wesley Dale (wesleydaletasmania.com). Children nestle into their bunkroom ‘camp-in’ while the adults can unwind into the quiet luxury of slow, simple comfort with this winter hamper and stargazing experience. Embark on an after-dark farm tour, using torches and maps to lead the way, while warming your hands around a cup of hot chocolate made from provided ingredients. Return for flaming marshmallows, games and late-night laughter by the flicker of a glowing fire.

*Wesley Dale Tasmania. Pic: stayteller.films*

Roaming Free This Winter

There’s something about a road trip that brings people together. Sightsee via four wheels with Explora Tasmania (explora.au), where a self-drive car hire and camping package turns the island into an open itinerary. A reliable vehicle and all the essential camping gear set the pace for the trip, with cosy comfort built in – sleeping, cooking and settling in wherever the day ends. For up to four people, you’ll have total freedom to do some winter exploring at your own pace.

A Getaway Good for the Soul

Winter at Iron Creek Bay Estate (ironcreekbay.com.au) comes with a slower kind of purpose. A stay here at this large estate near Hobart includes simple acts that connect your family to the land – feeding farm animals, planting a native tree for the future, and taking home a small seasonal surprise. A sunset walk to the waterfront will reset your crew. Savour an Off Season stay with 25% off.

Between River and Bush

Settle down beside Kanamaluka / River Tamar at Big4 Kelso Sands Holiday & Native Wildlife Park (big4.com.au), for a stay among natural bushland by the water’s edge. Cabins and campsites sit close to nature, where wildlife and birdlife move easily through the grounds and mornings begin with soft light over the river. Linger longer with a four-night stay, and pay for only three nights.

Longer Stays By The Shore

Mornings begin with fresh coastal air and near-empty beaches at Bridport Seaside Caravan Park (bridportcaravanpark.com.au), where there’s space to wander without destination or hurry. A longer winter stay means settling into the rhythm of the coast itself – venturing out to eat, sip and explore before returning to the quiet comfort of your base by the sea. Book a minimum of three nights online to receive a free night’s stay, from May to October for couples and families.

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Hobart Happenings

by Steph Williams

Bits and Pieces- June 2026

Hobart Happenings

by Steph Williams

Bits and Pieces – May 2026

Bits and Pieces- May 2026

Stay up to date with everything happening at the Hobart Magazine.

Worker shortage is currently universal, there isn’t an industry that’s exempt. For Kelvin Smith, four years ago he decided there was a very obvious solution to the shortage facing the construction industry, and all that was needed was a little time, empathy and a helping hand. Integrate Workforce is a Hobart-based labour company with one requirement: a refugee/ migrant background. He’s also the outdoor piano man in his free time.

Landscape artist and creative Elliott Nimmo is enjoying discovering Hobart’s vibrant art scene and local environment after relocating here from London to pursue his art.

Even though Tasmania is known for its mild summers, it doesn’t take much to get sunburnt. Tasmania experiences extreme ultraviolet (UV) levels, but contrary to popular belief this isn’t due to the hole in the ozone layer, which is actually south of the continent.While higher UV levels often occur at the same time as higher temperatures, the two are not linked. Instead, UV levels are determined by the angle of the sun in the sky: the higher the sun, the higher the UV. In December and January, the position of the sun over Tasmania gives the state a UV index of 11 or more on most days, which is classified as “extreme” on the UV index. Tasmania’s lack of humidity and generally clear skies contribute to the stinging feeling of the sun. UV can reflect off buildings and water, making it possible to get a higher dose of UV from these reflected rays, even in the shade.

Setting up shop during a pandemic was a risky move, but if the crowd at Dāna Eating House (Dāna) on a Friday night is anything to go by, it’s one that’s paid off. With tables of diners chatting and laughing over drinks, the music and conversation buzzes off the monstera-leaf-green walls. Low-hanging rattan lights and worn wooden floorboards give the newly opened South-East Asian fusion venue in Hobart’s CBD a relaxed vibe.

A Holyman flagged ship hasn’t steamed up the River Derwent since 1984 but the company’s name still proudly adorns its former offices at 5 Morrison Street, Hobart.

Widening the Tasman Bridge to allow 3.5 metres on each side is a big win for walkers and cyclists.

Need a laugh? Check out @theinspiredunemployed feed on Instagram.

Rain, hail and shine, the school crossing guards are always there to help with a smile on their face.

It’s hard to believe it’s not standard practice to have a working phone in every aged care room - shared phones make private conversations impossible and increase the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Just when you think your cousins are alright. NZ Opposition Leader Judith Collins took aim at Tassie during her recent (unsuccessful) campaign, calling us Australia’s “poor cousin.” She also seems worried about us nabbing tech businesses, “It’s a lovely part of the world but do you necessarily want to go there with your high- tech business? Possibly not,” she said. We beg to differ!