History

Written by John Henderson, this 1832 account is typical of the "observations" literature of its era — firsthand impressions of the colonies of New South Wales and Van Diemen's Land, covering the geography, natural history, people and conditions of the young settlements.

David and Shirley Westlake's photographic survey of old Tasmanian locations — historic buildings, streetscapes and landmarks across the island, presented in sepia-toned photography with short historical notes.

For a brief period between the world wars, to be "on the ossie" was to have a chance of breaking free from Tasmania's widespread poverty — an ounce of the precious metal osmiridium being more valuable than an equivalent weight of gold. It was a time when Tasmania held a monopoly on production of the rare metal used to tip millions of the world's most fashionable fountain pens.

History for those who don't like the boring bits — Only in Tasmania is Volume 1 of a collection of weird and wonderful true stories from Tasmania's past, by Sandra Huett. Signed by the author.