Historic hotel welcomed Governor of Tasmania to celebrate its bicentenary. Image curtesy of Mayor Michelle Dracoulis. Left to right is the Hon Guy Barnett, Ms Tabatha Badger MP  and owners Laurelle & John Grimley.

Historic Hotel welcomed Governor of Tasmania.

Our historic hotel welcomed Governor of Tasmania recently. Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC was at The Woodbridge to celebrate its bicentenary.

Other dignitaries joined The Governor. Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis officiated as Master of Ceremonies. Members of Heritage Tasmania and the National Trust attended. And the local tourism community was well represented.

Tradespeople who helped restored the property in 2004-5 were welcomed as very special guests. Family, friends and foundation staff members attended from as far away as Western Australia and Queensland.

The Governor spoke to the amazing colonial history of The Woodbridge. Mr Peter Scott representing the Heritage Council commented that it was important to preserve these historic properties.

However, this year is not only the 200th anniversary of the construction of The Woodbridge. Coincidentally, it is also the 20th anniversary of its restoration.

We also celebrated The Award winning Restoration.

We restored The Woodbridge between 20024 and 2006. HIA Tasmania named it 2005 Restoration of the Year. Subsequently they submitted it for the 2006 Australian Restoration of the Year. It won – a first for Tasmania.

Owner John Grimley worked with the builder to project manage the restoration. At the celebration Mr Grimley paid tribute to the restoration team of mainly local tradespeople. Subsequently the trade team joined the Governor and other guests to inspect the property.

The Hon Guy Barnett representing the Premier, noted that 2025 was a big year for New Norfolk. Additionally he reflected that several historic buildings were reaching significant milestones this year. All are a testament to the district’s rich colonial foundation.