Wellington Park is more than a biophysical reserve, and more than the historical parts that make it up. It is a vital component of the community's identity, strongly forming the local sense of place. Mount Wellington is particularly linked into the psyche of southern Tasmanians who live in its shadow and identify strongly with the area and associated local stories.
Some of these stories were collected through the Oral Histories Project in 2001 by Emily Stoddart, and retold in the mountain ...a people's perspective, available from Hobart City Council, local Tasmanian bookshops and by mail order.
Voices from other Mountain communities were recorded during the International Year of the Mountain.
Wellington Park means different things to different people. The Aboriginal community provide a perspective on the land, and current relationships. Bushcare and other local community groups work to eradicate environmental weeds and revegetate with native species.
Others visit the Park for peace and perspective, for adventure and retreat. It is a place to be in the wild and close to nature. For some it is simply a part of everyday life - or a source of inspiration, art and poetry. Visitors and residents testify to the important presence of the landscape in written interpretations. Local author and Fern Tree resident Danielle Wood contemplates the meaning of Wellington Park and the Mountain.
The vitality of the people and their sense of care fuels The Mountain Festival. Held once every two years, the Mountain is celebrated through exhibitions, excursions, discussions and performance. Highlights in 2006 included four days of Mountain Film Festival, a three day Sense of Place Conference and an exhibition of botanic art by women.
The importance of the Park is reflected by its placement on the Interim List of the Register of the National Estate.
Additionally many locals have responded passionately regarding development proposals in the Park. The Trust encourages community comment on management plans and initiatives, and considers all perspectives. The Wellington Park Management Plan guides management and ensures the protection of all Park values. For further information contact the Manager.
Images of today's locals can be viewed in the Gallery.