R&H Suburb Profile LAUNCESTON

Launceston is in Tasmania’s north. It is the state’s second largest city after the state capital, Hobart.

It is also one of Australia's oldest cities and boasts the country’s largest collection of 19th century buildings, many of which now house fashion designers, restaurants, financial institutions and high-tech work environments.

The city has a cool temperate climate often compared with that of the south of France, creating four distinct seasons.

Greater Launceston has a population of around 100,000. The city has the charm and pace of a regional centre and the facilities of a much larger city, but with fewer crowds, less traffic and an enviably low crime rate.

Launceston is a major hub for regional agricultural and pastoral activities. Historically, this has been connected with the growing of apples. In recent years viticulture has become more popular. Superfine wool remains an important part of Launceston’s economy, with wool sales attracting many international buyers.

Launceston serves as the commercial hub for the north of Tasmania, and like many parts of the state, is becoming a major tourist centre, particularly popular with food and wine lovers. The Cataract Gorge is Launceston's largest tourist attraction and is within close proximity of the city.

The city is home to a campus of the University of Tasmania including the Australian Maritime College, and has a minor minerals and manufacturing base.

Launceston is home to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, the largest museum located outside a capital city in Australia.  There is also a Country Club Casino and a substantial aquatic centre.

Residents are served by Launceston General Hospital, St Lukes Private Hospital and St Vincent's Hospital (private). Launceston is also the hub for the state's medical retrieval service. The Royal Flying Doctor Service is serviced by the state's ambulance service and doctors from the Launceston General Hospital.

Private vehicle is the most dominant form of transport, with the city having 721km of urban and rural roads. There is also a government-owned bus service. The small curfew-free Launceston Airport is located 15km south-east of the city and serves over 1 million passengers annually.  Launceston is a quick flight from Melbourne or Sydney.