The Southern Midlands begins beyond Hobart’s outer settlements and extends through dry pastoral country towards central Tasmania. Oatlands is the main service and heritage centre, while Kempton, Tunbridge, Colebrook and smaller districts reveal different parts of the region’s history.

A landscape with a longer history

The district is Aboriginal Country. Plains, waterways and routes through the Midlands supported movement and cultural life long before surveyed farms. British occupation brought dispossession and violent conflict as large pastoral grants spread through the region.

Colonial buildings need to be read within that history. Sandstone homesteads, roads and public works were supported by convict labour and a land system that excluded the original owners.

Oatlands

Oatlands has one of Tasmania’s strongest concentrations of nineteenth-century buildings. The Callington Mill precinct, courthouse, gaol remains and streets around Lake Dulverton reward several hours on foot.

Many historic houses remain private. Use public streets, marked heritage sites and current council interpretation rather than assuming that an old property is open.

Kempton, Tunbridge and Colebrook

Kempton developed along the colonial road and retains inns, churches and early houses. Tunbridge is smaller, with a notable bridge and railway-era landscape. Colebrook lies away from the Midland Highway and connects the region with the Coal River Valley and eastern districts.

These towns make sense as a linked journey. Driving straight through shows only fragments, while a full day allows two or three proper stops.

Farming and living heritage

Sheep, cropping and other agriculture remain central to the region. This is a working landscape rather than an open-air museum. Keep clear of stock entrances, machinery and private roads.

The climate can be hot and dry in summer, with frost and fog in winter. Lake levels, unsealed-road conditions and business hours vary. Oatlands is the most reliable place for services.

Plan the route

The Heritage Highway guide continues north through Ross, Campbell Town and Longford. For the Southern Midlands alone, allow a full day from Hobart or stay overnight in Oatlands. Side roads add distance, and wildlife makes dusk driving hazardous.