[2][3] European occupation of the Domain began in 1804 after the colonists abandoned their first camp at Risdon Cove and settled at the site of the current Hobart City Centre.

[2] Initially set aside for the pleasure and profit of the Governor of the colony, the Queens Domain gradually evolved into a developed public space with a rich and layered history.

The construction of a rail line in 1875 severed the connection to the Derwent River, and further disconnection occurred in 1943 with the creation of a link road between the floating bridge and the city, which later expanded into an extension of the Tasman Highway.

[2] Despite extensive development, the Domain retains nationally significant remnants of its original grassy woodland landscape.

The Domain’s landscape, with its distinctive grassy hues and silver-grey trees, contributes to Hobart’s natural character.

[2] In contrast to its native landscapes, parts of the Domain feature historic exotic gardens planted in the Victorian era to create a ‘park-like’ setting.

Notably, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens hosts 230 conifer species, representing one of the world’s most diverse collections.