The first Government House was built in 1817 on land which is now known as Franklin Square. Later Governor Arthur decided a new Government House should be built on the present site at Pavilion Point. By 1857 the main structure was completed and a couple of years later the internal finishing was complete.

The purpose of Government House is to house the Governor, the guardian of the Tasmanian constitution. These days, as well as officiating many important ceremonies, the Governor also has a focus on community building, and is patron to over 100 community organisations. Each year, thousands of Tasmanians attend functions here to celebrate individual and organisational achievement.

A highlight for me, like many visitors, was being able to see the crystal chandeliers, made from thousands of individual crystals, that light the ballroom. It is also fascinating to see the fantastically preserved, less ornate historical elements of the building, such as the old servant bell system (no longer in use). A bit different from the wi-fi connected doorbells of today.

Unfortunately COVID-19 has put a stop to tours of Government House at the moment, so here is a gallery of 2011 shots to peruse until things get back to normal. Check the Government House website to future updates.

Governor Kate Warner swears in Premier Peter Gutwein 20/012020

A list of Government House bells in the kitchen

Til next time Neil Richardson