Life in Hobart

I am sure much of this guide is about what you can expect from the academic year you are about to tackle. I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you about some of the not-so academic things that Hobart has to offer… many of which have helped keep me sane. It really is an easy place to live, and there is much to love about our city. I’m delighted to welcome you to it!

Whilst there are four spots to grab a quick coffee on campus, namely the Trade Table, Lazenby’s, Source and Suzy Lee (the Ref) — Sandy Bay has a few gems which are critical to campus culture. My two personal favourite coffee distributors are Brew and Sash Coffee. Coincidentally, they are directly opposite one another; you’ve got to make peace with the fact that you’re either a Brew person or a Sash person. Saunter in with your off-brand Keep Cup, have a yarn with the baristas and draw your line in the sand.

If you are as bad at Sunday arvo meal prep as me, I have some comforting news in the way of a cheap bite to eat. The Hotel Soho on Davey St has what is called ‘Round the Clock’ every Monday and Wednesday night. At 5pm, a chicken parmi and chips will only set you back $5. If that’s not enough, a stein of beer will set you back the same amount. If you’ve got a late lecture, no stress — $6 at 6pm! However, if you’re after a bit more variety in eating options, I cannot recommend the Elizabeth St strip in North Hobart highly enough.

If you’re a bit better at meal prep than I am, the Farm Gate Market on Bathurst St is every Sunday morning. Go pick up some fresh produce and enjoy some of the cuisine that Hobart has to offer, all whilst embracing the bustling farmer’s market vibes. My favourite brunch place in town would have to be Machine Laundry Café down in Salamanca Square. The extra haloumi is worth every cent.

If I’m not grabbing some exquisite Hobart fare, you can catch me at Chandler’s Plant Nursery in Sandy Bay. Their staggering houseplant greenhouse room changes up regularly, and there is no better way to breathe a bit of life into your working hours. Don’t forget to break up your grueling study routine and check out some of the TUU events!

My sole piece of academic advice for you is don’t be afraid of changing things up. I started a science degree, jumped ship to ICT and then combined that with law. There are no rules, and there is no set pathway. Don’t be scared to change up your course if things aren’t going the way you wanted! This is your degree and you get to make it what you want.

Looking forward to running into you in any (or all) of my local haunts, and I’m sure you will enjoy studying on our campus at the end of the world.