In Brighton Council, the range of themes extends from Pontville’s colonial architecture to riverside walking trails, birdwatching, wildlife experiences and wine. For planning your trip, it helps to set a simple priority: should your stay focus mainly on architectural history, offer time outdoors, or centre on a particular activity such as golf, motorsport or a guided tour?
Pontville as a Historic Highlight
Pontville is a significant colonial-era village within the Brighton municipality. Its colonial architecture includes sandstone churches, a convict-built bridge, hotels, grand homes and workers’ cottages. St Mark’s Church offers a clear example of the architectural style: the Romanesque sandstone church was designed by convict architect James Blackburn and completed in 1841.
An augmented reality experience at the former Brighton Army Camp brings the site’s stories to life. These include Tasmania’s first commercial flights, trade between Aboriginal groups and training for the Second World War. Other topics include the accommodation of Italian prisoners of war and Eastern European refugees, the temporary sheltering of Tasmanians after the 1967 bushfires, and refuge for Kosovars during the Balkan War. Alongside the architecture, this brings different chapters in the site’s history into focus.
Foreshore Trails with Distinctive Features
The Bridgewater Foreshore Trail follows the banks of the Derwent River around Bridgewater and Green Point to the East Derwent Highway Bridge. The flat wetlands along the foreshore are home to a variety of birdlife, including black swans, cormorants, pelicans and white-faced herons. A small waterside park at the foot of the heritage-listed Bridgewater Bridge offers scenic views across the River Derwent.
The Jordan River Trail is an easy walking trail along the Jordan River, with a detour through Pontville’s historic district. The Old Beach Foreshore Trail has a different riverside character, with extensive saltmarsh areas and birdlife along the route. Check local trail information before your visit.
Activities from Golf and Wildlife to Wine
Tea Tree Golf Club was established in 1929. Its nine-hole course is set in a scenic, semi-rural location; visitor access may vary. Motorsport offers a different local connection: Baskerville Raceway is located in Old Beach in a natural amphitheatre and opened in February 1958.
Two different options are available for wildlife encounters. At Zoodoo Zoo, visitors can get close to a wide variety of exotic animals; check the current name and access arrangements before travelling. Bonorong offers a 2.5-hour conservation-focused tour in a small group. It introduces visitors to Tasmanian wildlife, the rescue service and the wildlife hospital. Booking requirements may change, so check them in advance.
Wine is also part of the region’s offerings. The Coal River Valley in and around Tea Tree is home to vineyards and wineries, particularly for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Local wine trails and vineyards in Brighton and the wider area are also highlighted. Visitor arrangements at the wine destinations may change. The annual Brighton Show is held at a large sports complex on the edge of Pontville; its dates and program may vary.
Practical Information
Pontville RV Park offers parking for up to 48 hours. As conditions may change, it is a good idea to check the latest information before travelling. This lets you include this specific parking information in your plans without conflating it with a statement about other accommodation options.
Discover More Destinations
Old Beach, Moreland City, Swan Hill Rural City, Kingston City, Central Highlands Council, Circular Head Council, West Tamar Council, Central Coast Council
For the main travel overview: Tasmania.
