I can’t help but get excited at the thought of the long summer days stretching ahead. I immediately begin planning what trips I will do, where I’ll go and what I’ll see. 

It strikes me that I don’t even have to leave the state for any of these plans. 

It’s been said before and it will be said again, but Tasmania is a pretty amazing place. 

Where else in the world do you have such a plethora of offerings and experiences?

I can go from a delightful breakfast of fresh local produce, to stretching my muscles rock climbing, to relaxing and sipping world-class wine in a lush vineyard setting – all in the space of a day. 

We are often so used to the places we live in we forget to see them with fresh eyes, and take for granted the special and unique things they offer. 

I remember coming back to Tassie the first time after I’d spent a prolonged period away overseas. It struck me like a nerf gun bullet between the eyes, this place is spectacular (apparently I’m a bit slow to catch on).

There is nothing quite so soothing as the gently dripping rainforests of the West Coast. Nor anything so inspiring as the sweepingly savage and wild alpine landscapes of the central plateau. 

The beaches are pristine and rarely have to be shared between more than a few. 

If only we all had more time to get out, take a breath and experience what an incredible state we live in. If we could, just a couple of days a month, cast off the glasses through which things are just everyday and mundane. 

Everyone living here should have the chance to experience Tasmania as the visitors do. And the best bit? The amazing outdoors is free. 

So, my challenge to you: go and be a tourist in Tasmania.