What's Local

Tamar Island Wetlands

Nature & Parks

On the outskirts of Launceston is a unique estuarine wetland ecosystem of mudflats, lagoons and islands. Abundant with plant and animal life, the Tamar Island Wetlands are a magnificent Tasmanian landscape and a haven for various birds, mammals, reptiles, frogs, fish and invertebrates.
The wetlands are best enjoyed by wandering along the accessible boardwalk, which is flanked by tall native Tasmanian grass species as it traverses the wetlands. The walk weaves through the grasses and over footbridges that reveal River Tamar and its diverse birdlife.​

Don’t miss the excellent interpretation centre, where you can learn about the cultural and natural values of the site, before continuing along the boardwalk to Tamar Island. On the island you’ll find picnic tables and a beautiful view down the renowned Tamar Valley towards the peaks of Ben Lomond.

Travel Inspirations

Family holidays
Australia’s best holiday parks
Following the news that BIG4 dominated the various holiday park categories at the Out & About with Kids Readers Choice Awards 2020, we decided to put those winning parks in the spotlight.  
Culture, art and heritage
10 must-visit regional Australia museums
Enter a realm you might never knew existed; one that will have you completely captivated. The world of museums.
Food and drink
10 of the best Australian cellar doors
Looking for cellar doors that stand out from the crowd? These wonderful wineries are straight from the top drawer.  
Nature and wildlife
The best places to spot kangaroos
Do you want to see one of these uniquely Australian animals but not sure where to look? Whatever state or territory your travels take you, here are the top locations for kangaroo spotting.
Food and drink
10 must-visit Australian wine regions
This country bursts with glorious grape-growing areas that are ripe for exploration and indulgence. We’ve unearthed some of the best wine regions in Australia, from the iconic to the hidden gems.
Culture, art and heritage
5 facts about Tasmania’s Port Arthur Historic Site
Here is an interesting question to discuss around the dinner table – do you know if you have any convict stories within your own family history? It’s certainly adds an intriguing twist to many Australian families
Sport leisure and other activities
Scenic one-day walks in Australia
We’ve rounded up a collection of terrific trails across Australia, from casual meanders to more challenging climbs.
Family holidays
Best family holiday parks in Tasmania
Looking for top-ranked, kid-friendly holiday parks in TAS? They're right here.
Sport leisure and other activities
14 best golf courses you must play in Australia
These excellent layouts are a must for any golfer.
Sport leisure and other activities
Brews, views, and railways disused – 6 memorable Aussie cycling paths
Keen to go for a cycle but not sure where to start? Here are some of the best Aussie cycling paths around.
Culture, art and heritage
Australia’s BIG things – what you may not know about them
From bulging pieces of fruit and oversized statues to massive creatures and ‘what the?’ objects, Australia’s collection of big things is many and varied.
Culture, art and heritage
Best gorges in Australia
We’ve searched high and low to find the best gorges in the country, emphasising those that aren’t too far off the beaten track.
Nature and wildlife
23 of the Best Hikes in Australia – Ultimate Guide
We’ve rounded up some of the best walks in Australia. Step up!
Nature and wildlife
Australian national parks you must visit
We’ve scoured the land and found some of the best national parks to explore on a day trip.  
Sport leisure and other activities
Chill out! 9 wonderful winter experiences
Winter in Australia. Whether it means cosy escapes, chasing the sun, or something altogether different, it’s a time of great excitement.
Sport leisure and other activities
Hang ten with BIG4! Explore Australia’s best surf beaches
Want to find an iconic surfing location on your next BIG4 break? We’ll steer you in the right direction courtesy of this comprehensive list from Tourism Australia.
Drives and road trips
Best places to visit in spring in Australia
Pack your bags, grab your family or friends, and get ready to soak up spring!
Family holidays
Child’s play! Family-friendly Tasmania
Tasmania boasts some of the most beautiful, untouched wilderness areas in Australia. Coupled with a plethora of amazing wildlife, Tasmania's great outdoors allow for an experience that the whole family will remember.
Drives and road trips
Australian locations to put on your travel radar
Searching for inspiration about where to take a break this year? It might be time to look outside the square…  
Planning and preparing
The best places to enjoy snow in Australia
Ski, snowboard, and photograph Australia at its snow-filled best this winter. Tourism Australia has the lowdown on the best places to enjoy snow in Australia.