The Derwent Valley is located 36 kilometres north west from Tasmania's capital city Hobart, or a 30 minute relaxing drive along the banks of the fabulous Derwent River. The major geographic feature of the region is the Derwent River and its nine tributaries that wind through the fertile valley creating a picturesque rural setting first settled by Europeans in 1807. The region covers 4,111 square kilometres and boasts some of Tasmania's most spectacular wilderness areas as well as the iconic Mt Field National Park incorporating Russell Falls and the inspirational tall trees of the Styx Valley (refer to touring route's website http://www.riversrun.net.au/). The population of the Derwent Valley Municipality is estimated to grow by 3,000 - 5,000 over the next 5-7 years when all housing projects mature.

Governor Macquarie visited the area in 1811 and ordered his surveyors to lay out a township, which he named Elizabeth Town, but is now known at New Norfolk. In those early years, New Norfolk was the second population centre in the South, with Hobart the first.

The built and natural landscape reflects rich heritage and interesting stories with many sites and buildings listed on the National Heritage Register.

Council Telephone: 03 6261 8500 Council Facsimile: 03 6261 8546

Proposed Street Dining By-Law

Look what happened at the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival in 2009

DERWENT VALLEY SPORTS CENTRE

Other Tasmanian Websites:

Tasmanian Government Office (Canberra)                       Ombudsman Tasmania                                 Events Tasmania 

Being Prepared for an Influenza Pandemic                      Southern Tasmanian Councils Authority