Launceston: National Automobile Museum of Tasmania
If you like cars, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania is definitely for you! And even if you don’t particularly like cars, you might be surprised to find yourself enjoying this attraction in Launceston anyway. So buckle up for the ride.
Cars and Museum Makeover
The exterior of the Automobile Museum of Tasmania really doesn’t do justice to the treasure inside. Phil Costello, the manager of the museum, told us the street appeal of the venue will soon be overhauled. Renovation plans include a front showroom and an extension to the gift shop (which is already well-stocked with motoring souvenirs).
Cars or Monkeys?
On Cimitiere Street, the entrance faces Launceston City Park. Apparently the men visiting the Automobile Museum of Tasmania often part company with their better halves, directing them over the road to visit the monkeys and John Hart Conservatory.
And while an hour is probably sufficient for a quick lap of the vehicles, those without a reason to leave (or undue influence!) could easily spend much longer.
Peter Brock Motoring History
We toured the site just before the introduction of Brock 05 as the feature theme, which will be on display until June 2011.
Only a small portion of the vehicles are retained each time; the remainder are rotated to suit the scheduled theme every quarter. The vehicles are loaned to the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania by their owners, keen to share the enjoyment of their piece of motoring history.
A Tour of Vehicles
The experience of vehicle manufacture and racing is highlighted with static displays and photographs. I can imagine the museum will attract lots of tourists visiting Tasmania in April for the Longford Revival Festival, a celebration of the district’s motor sport history, combined with a gourmet food and wine program.
Motorcycle Mezzanine
Motorcycles are also included in the trip down memory lane. Several quaint two-wheeled vehicles were scattered between the Muscle Car Legends (the Jan-Mar theme) while a mezzanine floor features many more models. Some of the exhibits are available for purchase, but most are a strictly look-but-don’t-touch arrangement.
Admission: Automobile Museum of Tasmania
The National Automobile Museum of Tasmania is a community, non-profit organisation. While the museum employs several staff members, they are assisted by a dedicated band of volunteer motoring enthusiasts. Profits are re-invested to aid the preservation and promote the history of the cars for all to enjoy. A family pass costs $26-00 (individual admission is much less) and could last all day!
Motoring Photography
Taking photos of the classic cars and motorbikes is actually encouraged. At this Launceston attraction, you can even use flash photography or take video footage if you want. Which may cause a problem, if you’re anything like us: choosing a favourite image to share is a nightmare!
Here’s just a small sample from our collection…
The writer was a guest of the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. Visit their website or phone (03) 6334 8888 for more information. They are open seven days a week from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
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Ideal for Dad and the Lad but good for the girls too. My wife was most impressed by the unique collection of cars and motor cycles.
In return, I had to spend the following morning visiting one dress shop after another! (Maybe Dad and Lad should let Mum and the girls do their own thing after all!)
I’m sure you secretly loved being on hand to give an opinion at the dress shops, Roger!! Knowing how most men love to shop, and all…
Personally, I enjoyed the classic cars much more than I anticipated – and we all went to see the Launceston City Park monkeys AFTER the museum. The John Hart Conservatory is looking sensational right now, too.