James Ebenezer Bicheno was Van Diemens Land's Colonial Secretary from 1843 until 1851, and it is in his honour that the town was eventually named. The town was originally known by the local whalers as Waubs Boat Harbour - so named after a local aboriginal woman who became a heroine by rescuing two drowning fishermen from the wild seas.

Bicheno is located on the east coast region of Tasmania, and was a sheltering point for the whalers and fishing boats in the early 1800s. In 1854 the town became one of the principal ports for the shipping of coal. The extractions were drawn by horse along a tramway that ran for 5 kilometres to the Dennison River Mines.

Today, where sealers and whalers once sheltered their craft, cray and abalone fishers now moor their boats, and the town is a pleasant and relaxed holiday resort.


Natural Attractions

East Coast Animal and Bird Park covers an area of 32 hectares, and encompasses a natural bushland habitat with an abundance of native flora and fauna, including Tasmanian Devils and waterfowl which may be viewed during a walk through the extensive aviary on site. The nearby Douglas Apsley National Park has extensive walking trails, taking in marvellous scenery and natural wonders.

Sea Life Centre displays an extensive aquarium collection of sea horses, crayfish, eels and other forms of sea life. Visit the Fairy penguins on Diamond Island, or stroll along the sandstone cliffs to The Porches, Butlers Point, Friendly Beaches and Coles Bay. A trip to nearby Freycinet National Park to view the spectacular coastal scenery such as Sleepy Bay, Wineglass Bay and the imposing Hazards make for an unforgettable experience.

Other Attractions

Fishing, diving, tennis badminton, and bowls are just some of the sports to be enjoyed in the town. Gaol House Craft Shop stocks a wide range of locally produced arts and crafts.

Hire a boat from Bicheno Penguin and Adventure Tours and explore the area's attractions with a knowledgeable guide. A scuba diving centre is located in Bicheno which boasts access to some of the most breathtaking dive sites in Tasmania, including Governor Island Marine Reserve off the coast - one of 4 reserves officially declared in June 1991.

To the south, not too far away, you will find Coombend Estate where you can sample some of their fine wines. It is here that you will find superb Cabernet Sauvignon. Opening hours are from 9am until 6pm daily. For more information please phone (002) 57 8256.

Another vineyard to be found in the same area is the Freycinet Vineyard. Here your taste buds will delight at the Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling Muller Thurgau blend. Opening hours are from 9am until 5pm during the week, and from 10am until 4.30pm on weekends. For more information please phone (002) 57 8384.

A bus service runs from Bicheno to Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park. Tours of nearby Oyster Farms can be arranged from Bicheno.

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