Hobart Gas Company

When you touch down in Hobart, your gaze can't help but be drawn to a towering curiosity: a striking brick chimney that looms over the highway on the city's eastern edge. This architectural marvel, constructed for the Hobart Gas Company, is an intriguing blend of design. Its base is square, yet it transforms into an octagon as it reaches skyward. Built over a century ago, this two-tonne stack served its purpose for a mere dozen years, but its legacy is fascinating.

The true significance of this chimney isn't in its years of service, but in its representation of the scientific and technological advancements that shaped modern Hobart. It stands as a testament to the steam, gas, and electric energy innovations that powered the city. At the base of this grand structure, you'll find a handful of original gasworks buildings, now repurposed into a lively restaurant, a handy convenience store, a bottle shop, and some offices. Above them all, the stack stands silently, a unique marker for those exploring Hobart.

The Hobart Gas Company came into being in 1854 with a mission to illuminate the city's streets. They processed gas from imported coal, as the local supply was subpar. This 'town gas' revolutionized Hobart, replacing oil lamps and candles with gas lighting in factories, homes, and streets. Suddenly, working hours stretched longer, streets became safer, and the convenience of gas lighting and cooking became a household staple. Hobart itself is a city that beautifully blends history with a modern vibe. As you roam the streets, you'll notice how the past seamlessly integrates with the present. The Salamanca Market, for instance, offers a delightful mix of local crafts and fresh produce, all set against the backdrop of historic sandstone warehouses. It's this fusion of old and new that makes Hobart such a captivating destination.