Derwent Valley | |
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Valley of Love[1] | |
Location of the Derwent Valley in Tasmania | |
Area | 4,111 km2 (1,587 sq mi)[1] |
Geography | |
Location | Tasmania, Australia |
Population centers | New Norfolk, Bushy Park, Maydena and Strathgordon |
Coordinates | 42°48′11.17″S 146°32′38.55″E / 42.8031028°S 146.5440417°E |
Rivers | River Derwent, Plenty River |
The Derwent Valley is a river valley and geographic area located in southern Tasmania, Australia. The largest town is New Norfolk, with other smaller towns spread across the area. The Derwent Valley area had a population of 10,942 in 2021.[2] Commencing at Lake St Clair and spanning 239 kilometres (149 mi) to the state capital of Hobart, the River Derwent receives contributions from numerous tributaries and plays a role in Tasmania's intricate hydroelectric system at certain points. Renowned for its agricultural output, the Derwent Valley was initially settled by British colonists during the 1800s. Prior to colonisation, the area was inhabited by the Leenowwenne peoples of the Big River district.[3]