Sandy Bay Local History
Sandy Bay is a suburb located in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It is bounded by the River Derwent to the east, Mount Nelson to the west, and Battery Point to the north. Sandy Bay was originally inhabited by the Mouheneenner tribe who were a part of the Southeast tribe of Tasmanian Aboriginals.
The first European to settle in Sandy Bay was a man named John Bowen who arrived in 1803 and established a settlement at Risdon Cove. However, he soon relocated the settlement to Sullivan's Cove in Hobart.
In the 1830s, Sandy Bay started to develop as a suburb due to its close proximity to Hobart. The area became popular with the wealthy residents of Hobart who built large mansions along the waterfront. One of the most well-known of these mansions is Wrest Point, which was built in the 1930s.
During World War II, Sandy Bay was the site of several military installations. These included gun emplacements and anti-submarine nets. One of the most significant events that occurred during this time was the sinking of the American submarine USS Harder in 1944. The wreck of the submarine is still located off the coast of Sandy Bay.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Sandy Bay saw significant urban development. Many of the large, historic mansions were demolished to make way for apartment buildings and townhouses. Today, Sandy Bay is a thriving suburb with a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is home to many cafes, restaurants, and shops.
One of the most popular landmarks in Sandy Bay is the Sandy Bay Rivulet, which runs through the center of the suburb. The rivulet is the site of the annual Sandy Bay Regatta, which has been held since 1849. The regatta features a variety of water-based activities including canoe races, dragon boat races, and boat races.
Another significant landmark in Sandy Bay is the University of Tasmania. The university has a large campus in the suburb and is home to more than 20,000 students. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in areas such as business, engineering, law, and medicine.
In conclusion, Sandy Bay is a suburb with a rich history that dates back to the early days of European settlement in Tasmania. From its origins as a settlement for wealthy residents, to its role during World War II, to its current status as a thriving urban center, Sandy Bay has played an important role in the development of Hobart and Tasmania as a whole.