Devonport

Devonport is a city in the northwestern part of Tasmania, Australia, situated at the mouth of the Mersey River. Along with the slightly smaller city of Burnie, Devonport is the major regional centre of the northwestern part of the state.

History

During the 1850s the twin settlements of Formby and Torquay were established on opposite banks at the mouth of the Mersey River. Torquay was the larger community with police, post, magistrate, at least three hotels, shipyards and stores. Between 1870 and 1880 the shipping industry grew and work was undertaken to deepen the mouth of the river. When the mouth of the river could support a shipping industry the first regular steamer services commenced, operating directly between the Mersey and Melbourne.

In 1889 the Bluff lighthouse was completed and the turn of the Century saw the railway make a significant difference to the Formby community. It combined a railhead and port facilities in the one place. A wharf was created on the west bank, close to the railway and warehouses. The railway brought a building boom to Formby. In 1890 a public vote united Torquay and Formby, and the settlements became the town of Devonport.

On 26 February 1929, Father Andrew Thomas Edgar Archur murdered his five children and his wife, and then set fire to their house in Devonport. He killed himself after the attack.

Facilities

The main CBD is on the west side of the Mersey River and includes a pedestrian mall, cinema, speciality stores, chain stores and a hotel. There are several local restaurants and cafes. The former Devonport Hospital is now being considered for transformation into over fifty apartments.

Government

Steve Martin was elected Mayor of the City of Devonport in 2011. There are 12 aldermen that govern the Devonport City Council