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This is the second half of an account written by my great-great grandfather, Thomas Stephens, about his experience riding from Devonport to Circular Head in north west Tasmania in 1858. His ride was on behalf of the Tasmanian government with respect to the establishment of educational facilities for Tasmanian settlers and their families. I have shared this with you as I was delighted by my connection with this man. I found his writing to be very warm and accessible, even 160 years later. His account of his experiences, so far removed from ours today, riding through the virgin forest of Tasmania on his trusty steed – named Brian – is so animated, so fascinating and really brings to life a period that is hard to feel much connection with today.

Thomas was an Oxford-educated academic, who set out alone (apart from his trusty steed Brian) on an arduous, multi-day ride through tough bush on barely marked tracks. References to Kentish’s track refer to the track cut in 1841 by surveyor Nathaniel Lipscomb Kentish, who was commissioned to survey the virgin northwest corner of Tasmania, and discovered the Kentish Plains, which were named for him. Cutting his way through rough country, swimming rivers, avoiding bushfires, while cheerfully describing the events he and Brian encountered and the characters he met along the way. I am filled with admiration for the tenacity, the strength and the fortitude of these pioneers who tamed the beautiful island we live on today. This account of part of the history of Tasmania was written some years (maybe 30) after his journey.

You have undoubtedly heard of Akubra Hats Australia, I mean, who hasn’t?  A true Ausiie icon! Their fur felt hats are a ubiquitous fact of Australian life and have been part of the national outfit and identity of Aussies for well over a century. But did you know the company has a long-time link with our island home here in Tasmania? Did you know that the company was originally started in Hobart, way back in 1874?

Autumn is my favourite season. That slow exhale of Mother Nature after the crazy scramble of summer, to squeeze as much life as possible into the short season while the warmth of the sun lasts. The fruit-laden branches heavy with their years’ work; the blushing leaves turning from green to orange to red; the misty mornings and cold crisp evenings with big bright blue days in between. Perhaps my favourite thing is the style of cold weather - the excuse to get my scarves and hats out and layer up again.

Hello friends, and welcome to the inaugural edition of Lake Leather’s brand new newsletter’Vellum’.

Lake Leather is renowned for its quality leather goods – footwear and accessories – but did you know we stock a good selection of hides and hide products for your home too? We have a great selection of cow hides, sheepskins and other animal skins for use as rugs, draped over furniture and wall hangings, as well as hide cushions, pillows and blankets.