Devonport history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of modern Devonport roots back to the mid-19th century. Remarkably, a city by this name did not originally exist. On opposite banks of the River Mersey estuary, two independent settlements developed: Torquay on the eastern bank and Formby on the western bank. By the 1850s, these villages had become important centres for the colonisation of Tasmania's north-west coast. The official birth date of the city is considered to be 1890, when residents of both banks voted to merge into a single administrative centre, named Devonport in honour of the major English seaport.

Key Factors of Formation

The rapid development of the city was predetermined by a combination of geographical advantages and the region's rich natural resources:

• Strategic Location: The River Mersey estuary created a natural and sheltered harbour, ideal for navigation in the Bass Strait.
• Natural Wealth: The surrounding lands were renowned for fertile volcanic soils, while the forests in the upper reaches of the river provided valuable timber.
• Transport Hub: From its early years, the settlement became a key point for resource export, which stimulated the construction of wharves and warehouses.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of the early period depended entirely on the sea and trade. During the gold rush in the neighbouring state of Victoria, the port was actively used to export food, coal, and lime to the mainland. The cultural appearance of the city formed around port life: sailors, merchants, and shipyard workers settled here. Thanks to established ferry connections, Devonport quickly secured the status of Tasmania's main "maritime gateway," maintaining this title to this day.

19th Century: Foundation and Unification

• 1826 — A research group from the Van Diemen's Land Company conducted the first detailed study of the River Mersey and its estuary.
• 1850s — Two independent settlements were founded on opposite banks of the river: Torquay in the east and Formby in the west.
• 1854 — The first sawmill opened in Torquay and a jetty was built, kickstarting the development of local industry.
• 1882 — The Marine Board building was erected, which is recognised today as the oldest surviving structure in the city.
• 1885 — The railway line was extended to Formby, turning the village into an important transport hub.
• 1889 — Construction of the lighthouse at Mersey Bluff was completed, becoming a symbol of the city and a vital navigational aid.
• 1890 — Residents of both banks voted to merge the settlements of Torquay and Formby into a single city named Devonport.

20th Century: Infrastructure Development and New Status

• 1902 — The Victoria Bridge opened, creating the first permanent land link between the eastern and western parts of the city.
• 1907 — Devonport officially received municipality status, strengthening its administrative importance in the region.
• 1959 — The opening of a terminal for "Ro-Ro" vessels and the launch of the ferry Princess of Tasmania marked the beginning of mass car tourism.
• 1981 — Prince Charles, during his visit, officially proclaimed Devonport a City.
• 1985 — Operation began for the ferry under the Spirit of Tasmania brand, definitively securing the city's status as the "maritime gateway" of Tasmania.

21st Century: Modernity

• 2002 — Modern ferries Spirit of Tasmania I and II were commissioned, significantly increasing the port's capacity.
• 2022 — The large-scale Quaylink investment project was launched to modernise port infrastructure for next-generation vessels.

Key Milestones in Devonport's Development

The evolution of Devonport is a journey from scattered coastal settlements to Tasmania's main logistics and tourism hub. Below are the main stages that defined the city's modern economic and architectural appearance:

• Administrative Unification (1890)
  The merger of the villages of Torquay and Formby became the foundation for creating a unified urban infrastructure. This decision allowed for centralised port management, combined budgets, and the direction of resources towards developing a common transport network, ending the rivalry between the two banks.
• Construction of Victoria Bridge (1902)
  The opening of a permanent crossing over the River Mersey radically changed the urban planning structure. This ensured a reliable land connection between residential areas and industrial zones, stimulated trade growth, and allowed the city to develop as a single organism rather than two isolated enclaves.
• Start of the Ferry Era (1959)
  The launch of the first specialised passenger ferry, the Princess of Tasmania, transformed the city's economy. Devonport ceased to be exclusively a cargo port and turned into the island's tourist gateway. This led to the development of the service sector, hotel construction, and infrastructure for road travellers.
• Receiving "City" Status (1981)
  The conferral of city status in the presence of Prince Charles was an official recognition of Devonport's regional significance. This event increased the municipality's investment appeal and strengthened its position as the administrative centre of Tasmania's north-west coast.
• "Living City" Revitalisation Project (2010s)
  The largest urban planning initiative in the city's history, aimed at reimagining central Devonport. The construction of the cultural hub Paranaple Centre, a library, and conference halls shifted the focus from purely utilitarian development to creating a comfortable urban environment and public spaces for residents and visitors.
• Quaylink Port Modernisation (2020s)
  Massive investments in port infrastructure have cemented Devonport's role as a key link in trade between Tasmania and mainland Australia. The expansion of terminals allows for the reception of new-generation vessels, ensuring the region's economic stability for decades to come.

Urban Appearance: A City of Two Banks

The architectural development of Devonport is unique in that the city formed as two independent settlements separated by the River Mersey. This has left its mark on the layout: the western part (formerly Formby) became the commercial and administrative centre with denser development, while the eastern part (formerly Torquay) retained a more relaxed, resort-like character with low-rise residential homes and beach infrastructure.

Historically, development gravitated towards the water, but the modern "Living City" master plan turns the city to face the river, transforming former industrial zones into public spaces.

Architectural Styles and Iconic Buildings

Since active development of the city began only in the late 19th century, medieval or early classical styles are absent here. The look of Devonport is an eclectic combination of Australian colonial heritage and modern functionality.

• Victorian and Federation Style (1890–1915)

  The period of the city's unification coincided with the flourishing of the Federation style (the Australian version of Edwardian architecture). It is characterised by the use of red brick, verandas with wooden decor, and tiled roofs.

  Iconic object: Home Hill — the former residence of Prime Minister Joseph Lyons. This is a classic example of early 20th-century timber architecture, preserved in its original state and surrounded by a garden.

• Utilitarian and Maritime Style (Late 19th Century)

  As a port city, Devonport is rich in examples of industrial and navigational architecture, where aesthetics are subordinate to function.

  Iconic object: Mersey Bluff Lighthouse. Built in 1889, it stands out with its characteristic vertical red stripes on a white background and is one of the most recognisable structures in the region.

• Art Deco and Post-War Modernism (1930–1960)

  In the city centre, especially along shopping streets, one can find mid-20th-century facades with geometric forms and restrained decor, characteristic of provincial Art Deco and functionalism.

  Features: Cinema buildings and old department stores in the city centre often bear traits of this era, recalling the time when Devonport became the island's main tourist gateway.

• Contemporary Architecture and High-Tech (21st Century)

  The last decade has been marked by a large-scale revitalisation of the centre. New buildings are constructed using glass, steel, and eco-friendly materials, creating a contrast with historical development.

  Iconic object: Paranaple Centre. This multi-functional complex, including a library, theatre, and conference centre, has become a symbol of the new Devonport. Its architecture is distinguished by openness, an abundance of natural light, and integration into the urban environment.

Prominent Political Figures

Devonport holds a special place in Australia's political history, being home to one of the country's most influential families of the 20th century.

• Joseph Lyons — Prime Minister of Australia (1932–1939).
  The only person from Tasmania to hold the country's highest state office. Before his political career, he worked as a teacher. His former residence, Home Hill in Devonport, has been preserved in its original state and operates today as a museum open to visitors.
• Dame Enid Lyons — Politician, Public Figure.
  The wife of Joseph Lyons, she went down in history as the first woman elected to the Australian House of Representatives and the first female minister in the federal government. She commanded immense respect for her social work and contribution to women's rights.

Sports Legends

The city has given the world several athletes whose achievements are recognised at national and international levels.

• David Foster — Champion Woodchopper.
  A true icon of Tasmania. Foster holds an incredible record, having won over 1000 championship titles during his career. He actively promotes Devonport as a tourist destination and frequently participates in city events.
• Matthew Richardson — Australian Rules Football (AFL) Player.
  A Devonport native who became a legend of the Richmond Football Club and one of the most recognisable players in league history. After retiring from sports, he became a successful media personality and commentator.
• Corey Cadby — Professional Darts Player.
  A young athlete born in Devonport who quickly burst into the elite of world darts, winning the World Youth Championship and performing successfully at prestigious PDC tournaments.

Cultural and Historical Figures

• Frank MacDonald — World War I Veteran.
  Although not born in the city itself, MacDonald lived in Devonport for a long time and was known as the last surviving veteran of the Great War in Tasmania (he passed away in 2003 at the age of 107). One of the local memorial complexes is named in his honour.
• Owen Roe — Cinematographer.
  A renowned Australian director of photography who has worked on many popular television series and films. A native of Devonport who has contributed to the development of the country's visual arts.