A Taste of Tasmania by Sarah Jane Butfield

Tasmania is one of the six states of Australia, and it is an island made up of wilderness, mountains and spectacular landscapes and it offers a relaxed lifestyle to visitors and residents alike. With World Heritage status in many parts and a large number of national parks and reserves it is a walkers and explorers paradise. It has a rich and colourful history which includes it’s aboriginal heritage, convict colonies and the first European arrivals in the 1700’s; Abel Tasman and Captain James Cook to name but two.

We relocated to Tasmania after losing our home and possessions during the Brisbane floods Queensland, in January 2011. Our goal was to start rebuilding our lives in a new state in Australia, with new jobs and in search of a new beginning to put the challenges of the aftermath of the floods behind us. By December 2011 Nigel and I both had good jobs in Hobart and we decided to attend one of the highly prestigious annual events at the Marina; The Taste of Tasmania food festival.

Hobart's waterfront comes alive for a week in December when this event, which showcases the finest produce from around Tasmania including food, wine, beer, cider and soft drinks explodes into the city. December is one of the summer months and a beautiful time to be in Tasmania for both locals and visitors. The Taste of Tasmania hosts not only a food and drink extravaganza, but free entertainment for children and adults alike, ranging from street performers and twilight cinemas to music artists from many genres.

Tasmania's has a hard earned reputation for high-quality organic farming and sustainability. Contributing factors include nutrient-rich soil, clean air and pure water all of which excite and encourage boutique growers to produce high quality authentic culinary produce. 

Therefore, this food and wine festival is a great place to sample and learn about what's available and how it's produced. Local and international chefs provide cooking demonstrations, tasting tables and an array of literature on the products on offer and what you can do with them.

Tasmania is home to an array of cooler climate wines which attracts worldwide interest from wine connoisseurs and wine-makers. It’s varied climate is perfect for small brewers and distillers to produce cider, whisky and gin and during the Taste of Tasmania you can sample these products and talk to the producers about their methods, ingredients, etc.

The island state of Tasmania is synonymous with tourism, high-quality food and fine wines, therefore it is no wonder that it attracts visitors from around the world.

Our experience of The Taste Festival as residents gave us a real sense of community which was very much needed. Hobart is a city filled with history and culture, yet it has a cosmopolitan feel to it as it continues to develop as the heart of Tasmania. The Salamanca market held every Saturday also boasts local produce and crafts often with shows and music on the green. As a family-focused city if you visit Tasmania be sure to spend a few days enjoying everything Hobart has to offer its visitors and residents.


Find out more about Sarah Jane's books on her author's page: 
http://sarahjanebutfield.wix.com/sarahjanebutfield


Sarah Jane has kindly provided a couple of photos to accompany her story.