2 replies to this topic

[t rex and brontesaurus]

Hi everyone,we are new to this site have posted before,we are a couple of retirees living in Cairns and have decided that we need a change of scenery and love everything that we have read and been told about Tasmania,so we are currently looking at houses in different areas,we have found some that we really like now we need some info on areas,can anyone help plz,Gravelly Beach,New Norfolk, Leith,Lower Snug and Snug,plus Huon Valley.Also while I'm here what is happening about the pulp mill?any info.We are thinking of visiting and hiring a Brits campervan and touring around better than staying in one place,we just hate leaving our dog for long periods,but I guess we will have to do that before we buy anything.Would really appreciate any info or advice anyone can give to a coup le of old oldies,ready for our next adventure.Many thanks.Jacqui

[Mystic]

Hi Jacqui. I can only comment on these locations from passing through many times, sometimes stopping to shop, or camping nearby. Snug and Huon areas, I have always liked. People generally seem friendly and relaxed. New Norfolk is quaint, but seems to generate a feeling of an undercurrent existing. Nothing against the place, I quite like stopping there, but something inside me says I would not choose to live there. (No offence to those residents of the area intended). I will say it is absolutely spectacular in Autumn when the trees are changing and beautifully reflected in the river.

The  other two places you mention I know very little about. Hopefully others can be more helpful there.

The pulp mill....Hmmmmm Gunns shares have been in suspension for almost 3 months now, and one gets the feeling that if the company allowed the market to decide their fate they would go belly up. They still insist they are trying to finance the mill, but, honestly they now carry more debt than they have assets to cover, not enough cash to meet the repayments that are looming, and seem to be living in a  dream world. Personally, I cannot see a company in that position attracting the kind of investment required for a multi billion dollar project in an economically uncertain world.

A tour in a camper would definitely be a good idea and allow you the freedom to explore the locations you are looking at, spend a few days there getting the feel for the local area and lifestyle.

Best of luck.

[Cascade]

Hi Jacqui,

I'll start in the south, there are some great spots in the Huon Valley, one that springs to mind is Cygnet, especially if your into alternative music and lifestyle, overall the Huon is a large area and would be hard to generalise and give a true overview.  

As for Lower Snug & Snug proper, there used to be a big influx of campers during long weekends and holiday periods and the caravan park was often booked out, but I'm not sure if it still happens. I think it now has some growing Yuppie suburbs on newly cleared land, as is happening all through that area. Personaly I would not choose to live there, although it would be a comforable 30 klm commute to Hobart for some culture. Although I do see some of the older properties in the area can be picked up for a song.

Gravely Beach is on the Tamar River close to Exeter and within close commuting distance of Launceston, approx 1/2 hr. You should find something reasonable there around the $350,000 upwards, I don't think I could live there as after awhile I think I would tend to feel a bit hemmed in.

The earlier settling of Lieth is a small place off the Bass Highway between Devonport and Ulverstone, you would have beach access from most properties on the northern & north western properties but it 's only a short walk up the road to gain access, if you don't have a property on that side. We have two friends that live there and they have no intention of moving anywhere alse. Lieth also sprawls onto the southern side of the Bass Highway towards Forth along the Forth River. Probably looking at $400,000 plus for houses here. Hope this has helped a little
I'm only 20 minutes from Lieth, If you fancy a coffee and a chat when youré looking around then I"m happy to oblidge