Giants of the North-West waterways

Locals tell stories of the days when catching lobsters weighing between 4-6kg were common. Now listed as 'Vulnerable' under the Tasmanian Threatened Species Act 1995, and declared as a 'Protected Fish' under the Inland Fisheries Act 1995, it is rare to find specimen larger than 3kg.

"Friends of the Freshwater Lobster" is a not for profit organisation set up by locals committed to the preservation of the species. The group, consisting only of volunteers, raises funds to maintain and operate the Lobster Ponds, at picturesque Flowerdale – just a short drive from Wynyard.

Visitors to the Lobster Ponds can view some of the resident giants up close and personal (if you dare!) and can wander through the outdoor ponds designed to simulate the natural ecological environment of the Lobster. Local school groups and Wildcare volunteers have assisted in the design and construction of gravity-fed aeration and filtration systems, and support the Lobster Ponds with on-going assistance with maintenance of the grounds. Other volunteers staff the on-site café, which has views to rival any café in the world! An excellent menu that utilises local fresh produce offers visitors a mouth-watering reward for their contribution to saving one of the world's 'not so cuddly' endangered species!

OPEN: Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun (10am-3pm) Special openings available for group bookings

Address: 241 Robin Hill Road, Flowerdale
Phone: 0458 420 006 (Kevin)

Directions: Travel west on the Bass Hwy from Wynyard. Take the Preolenna Rd turnoff to the left at Flowerdale. After a short distance watch for the signs for turn to the right. You will find the Lobster Ponds approximately 5km (some gravel road) from the Preolenna turnoff.