Apr 23: “Taste of Tasmania” Tour
After breakfast at Latitude 45 with sweeping views over the harbour, we drove the winding road to Queenstown, where we stopped to stretch our legs, then carried on to the small town of Derwent Bridge. Here, artist Greg Duncan has created a beautiful sculpture, stretching 100 metres in length, and comprising of 50 double-sided panels of rare Huon Pine, known as the “Wall of the Wilderness”. Each panel is meticulously carved with scenes depicting the area’s evolution-from its indigenous beginnings to the pioneers who shaped its landscape.
As we explored the intricately detailed panels, we were transported through time, witnessing the lives of timber harvesters, pastoralists, miners, and hydro-electric workers who left their mark on the land. Duncan’s masterful craftmanship brings these stories to life, evoking a sense of connection to Tasmania’s storied past.
Beyond its historical significance, the Wall of the Wilderness offers a sensory experience like no other. The aroma of Huon Pine fills the air, and the sheer scale of the sculpture leaves you in awe of its grandeur. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the region and a reminder of the power of art to preserve and celebrate the stories of the past. It truly is spectacular and well worth a visit.
Wall in the Wilderness | Heritage & Historical Tours Tasmania
