This is how it all began.

The Backpackers Barn was first created back in 1989 after it was noticed by Carl & Cathy that an increasing number of backpacking visitors to Tasmania were arriving in Devonport without any knowledge of how to get around the island and much of the information they had was incorrect.

Most of them wanted to experience the fantastic mountain walking but many were not properly equipped or aware of the unique Tasmanian weather conditions that could turn their adventure into a nightmare.

Lack of travellers' facilities in Devonport meant there was nowhere for them to go to get this important information, they were unable to get a shower or even go to the bathroom, re-organise their packs etc etc. The existing tourist agencies were not really interested or sufficiently experienced to assist and the steps of the Post Office were not an ideal change room or waiting room.

So we combined our extensive experience to create a facility to cater for all the special needs of visiting backpackers and local bushwalkers.

Late in 2005 the business changed its name to "Backpackers Barn and Wilderness Centre" but it still maintains the original ideals and policies from the original conception.

This year 2007 we have embarked on what we hope will be a new and exciting partnership with SNOWGUM™

We have also seen several others establish businesses which have given the backpacking traveller a much greater choice. However, according to feedback from travellers we are still considered the Best, First Stop In Tasmania. With the addition of our city centre accommodation "Mid-City Backpackers" above Molly Malones Irish Pub, travellers can now avoid the two or three kilometre walk to other backpacker accommodations and be only a few minutes from shops, banks & bus stations. Contact details for Molly Malones can be found here. Business Index

Our launch onto the World Wide Web has helped us provide even better service to our backpacking friends as they will have had access to good information before arrival, hopefully avoiding some of the errors made by booking through mainland or international agents who unfortunately know very little about Tasmania and especially the way things work here.

Carl in his Landy.